1

Alfareeq

Can’t be completely dismissed as he landed surprise wins in this G1 in both 2022 and 2023. But without a win in eight starts since, and none of those efforts suggesting that he has another winning chance here.

2

Ancient Rome

This quirky UK-trained gelding is no stranger to winning big money overseas as he showed when landing a huge 1600m prize at Kentucky Downs in 2023. Gelded since last seen when fourth in a 1800m Newmarket G3. This looks tough.

3

Holloway Boy

Very nearly pulled off a 1600m G2 Meydan victory on this month’s first career start outside the UK. Only twice a winner in his 17-race career but could get into the money as Meydan looks to suit.

4

Measured Time

Winner of seven of his ten starts including when accelerating decisively to beat eight rivals in this G1 last year. Arguably even more impressive with his front-running 7L victory in a G2 here last month, a course record time. A super-talented international star.

5

Ottoman Fleet

Doing his best work at the finish when second to stablemate Measured Time in this last year. Three times a Group winner since then, but the slow tempo over 1600m here this month did not suit.

6

Poker Face

This eight times winner looked right at the top of his game when quickening past rivals to grab the money on the line in a 1600m G2 here this month, showing also that Meydan suits. Effective at this longer trip.

7

Romantic Warrior

This Hong Kong-trained record-breaking global superstar returns to G1 action having gained his ninth G1 victory when again too powerful for his rivals to win the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup for a third straight year. Strong chances that he will now take Meydan by storm.

8

Royal Dubai

On his last two starts, both in Meydan G2s, he has finished well behind rivals here Measured Time and Poker Face. He did win twice at Meydan last year – including at this trip – but they were only in handicap company.