The Australian was vying for a third victory of the season in France, with Bordeaux hosting the eighth and last leg of the series, rather than staging the World Cup Final itself.

Exell produced a fine display on a challenging course to impress the crowd, with his efforts rewarded with a score of 124.68.

He would end the course nearly three seconds faster than his nearest challenger Koos de Ronde of The Netherlands, who would score 127.77.

Reigning World Cup champion Ijsbrand Chardon, also from the Netherlands, rounded off the top three with 128.21.

"I like a tougher course and this one suited me well," said Exell afterwards.

"It gave us the chance to use our power and to show the technical skills of our team.

"I decided not to take any risks because the positioning in the Final does count.

"I am now the last driver to go into the arena in the first competition in Gothenburg later this month, which is important.

"My horses' fitness is getting better and I am not afraid that they will become too fit."

Exell now tops the overall World Cup standings with 30 points, with the two Dutch drivers tying for second on 27.

The World Cup Final will take place in the Swedish city Gothenburg on February 25 and 26.