The upcoming $20 million Saudi Cup (G1) is set to feature a stellar lineup, with Hong Kong’s esteemed Romantic Warrior making a notable appearance. Known for his international successes, Romantic Warrior aims to prove his versatility by transitioning to dirt racing. His impressive eight-race winning streak includes victories in the 2023 Cox Plate (G1) in Australia and the recent Jebel Hatta (G1) at Meydan. Trainer Danny Shum has indicated a likely return to turf for the Dubai Turf (G1) on April 5, suggesting the Saudi Cup may be a unique challenge for Romantic Warrior.

Japan’s Forever Young returns to the Saudi racing scene with heightened expectations. After a dramatic win in the 2024 Saudi Derby, where he overcame a poor start to clinch victory, Forever Young has matured into a formidable competitor. His near wins in the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1), along with a recent triumph in the Tokyo Daishoten (G1), position him as a top contender. A strong performance could see trainer Yoshito Yahagi making history as the first to secure two Saudi Cup victories.

Rattle N Roll, an American closer, enters the fray under the lease of Sharaf Mohammed Al-Hariri, who experienced success with Senor Buscador’s Saudi Cup upset last year. Demonstrating his aptitude for the track by winning the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (G3) in January, Rattle N Roll’s familiarity with the course could prove advantageous.

The race has seen notable withdrawals, including Breeders’ Cup Classic winners Sierra Leone and White Abarrio, as well as Dubai World Cup champion Laurel River. These absences shift attention to other entrants, such as Walk of Stars, who is expected to set the pace in Laurel River’s stead. Walk of Stars has shown front-running prowess with significant victories in the Entisar S. and Al Maktoum Challenge (G1) at Meydan.

French contender Facteur Cheval, after a promising third-place finish in the Al Maktoum Challenge, seeks to capitalize on the Saudi dirt’s characteristics, which may better suit his closing style. His previous success in the Dubai Turf over a similar course configuration adds to his credentials.

Local hopes are bolstered by Defunded, a multiple Grade 1-winning millionaire formerly trained by Bob Baffert. Despite a seventh-place finish in last year’s Saudi Cup, Defunded recently secured a course-and-distance victory, suggesting a potential resurgence. Additionally, Argentine talents El Kodigo and Intense for Me, along with European import Al Musmak, add depth to the field, each bringing unique strengths and recent successes to the competition.

As the Saudi Cup approaches, these narratives intertwine to promise a thrilling and competitive race, showcasing a blend of international talent and local contenders. Much more coverage to come!