Romantic Warrior, Hong Kong’s brightest racing star and the world’s highest-earning racehorse, lived up to his formidable reputation with a dominant win in the G1 Jebel Hatta (sponsored by Longines) during Meydan’s glamorous Fashion Friday.

The 1800m turf contest wasn’t without drama. Early in the race, Measured Time surged to a ten-length lead, raising eyebrows across the grandstands. But jockey James McDonald remained composed, urging Romantic Warrior forward after the turn. The champion’s effortless acceleration closed the gap and carried him to an authoritative four-and-a-half-length victory over Poker Face, with Holloway Boy finishing third.

Tragically, the race was overshadowed by the fatal injury of Measured Time, who broke down just before the finish.

Romantic Warrior’s trainer, Danny Shum, expressed both relief and pride post-race. “He’s incredibly talented and intelligent—so easy to train. I wasn’t worried because I trust James completely. Romantic Warrior is one of the best horses in the world. His turn of foot, adaptability, and responsiveness are unmatched. I love this horse deeply.”

On the possibility of competing on dirt in the Saudi Cup, Shum remained cautious: “He’s shown promise in dirt trials back in Hong Kong, but trials aren’t races. On turf, he’s unbeatable; on dirt, it’s a question mark.”

McDonald shared similar sentiments about Romantic Warrior’s ability. “He’s a remarkable racehorse who can adapt to any pace or circumstance. I was a little concerned when he seemed fresh in the parade ring, but he settled beautifully before the start. He’s got superstar qualities.”

On a potential Saudi Cup bid, McDonald said, “Dirt racing is a whole different game. But his sheer determination might carry him through. If anyone can handle the challenge, it’s him.”

Walk Of Stars Books Saudi Cup Ticket

Meanwhile, Walk Of Stars, trained by Bhupat Seemar, stamped his ticket to the Saudi Cup with a commanding performance in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge (sponsored by Longines). Under a confident ride from Tadhg O’Shea, the six-year-old led from the start and never looked back, finishing three lengths ahead of stablemate Imperial Emperor. Facteur Cheval, the 2024 Dubai Turf winner, ran valiantly to take third in his first dirt attempt.

“He’s a powerful front-runner who controls the pace perfectly,” said O’Shea. “Tonight’s performance was top-class.”

Seemar confirmed the Saudi Cup is next, noting, “His owners, Athbah Stud, are Saudi-based, so it’s an obvious target.”

King Gold Stuns in Firebreak Stakes

The night’s biggest upset came in the G3 Firebreak Stakes (sponsored by Longines), where King Gold snatched victory from Laurel River, the reigning Dubai World Cup winner and newly crowned joint 2024 Longines World’s Best Racehorse. Laurel River set a blistering pace but faded in the final strides, allowing King Gold, under Adrie de Vries, to steal the win at the line.

“I couldn’t believe it—we won!” exclaimed Marine Henry, assistant trainer to Nicolas Caullery. “I’ve always believed in this horse’s dirt potential, and tonight he proved me right.”

Laurel River’s connections remain optimistic about the Saudi Cup. Juddmonte CEO Douglas Erskine Crum said, “He ran bravely, maybe a bit too keenly. Riyadh remains the goal.”

Tuz Extends Winning Streak in Al Shindagha Sprint

Tuz, the reigning G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen champion, showcased his brilliance yet again by winning the G3 Al Shindagha Sprint (sponsored by Longines). Tadhg O’Shea secured the rail early, holding off a strong challenge from Colour Up to win by three-and-a-quarter lengths.

“He’s unbeatable on this track,” said O’Shea. “He’s in complete control and only ever does what’s needed to win.”

European Sprinter Strikes in Blue Point Sprint

George Scott’s West Acre delivered an extraordinary performance in the G2 Blue Point Sprint (sponsored by Longines), beating older rivals with a record-breaking run. Callum Shepherd timed his ride to perfection, denying longtime leader Ponntos in the final strides.

“He’s all speed and has a massive engine,” said Scott. “We’re targeting the Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint and the Al Quoz Sprint next.”

Golden Vekoma Aims for Saudi Derby

Golden Vekoma continued his rise with a polished victory in the G3 UAE 2000 Guineas (sponsored by Longines). Guided by Connor Beasley, the son of Vekoma held off a late surge from Heart Of Honor, securing a first Guineas win for trainer Ahmad Bin Harmash.

Bin Harmash confirmed plans for the Saudi Derby, saying, “He’s a class act and only getting better. It’s time to test him on a bigger stage.”

James McDonald Stars with Meydan Treble

World-renowned jockey James McDonald delivered a stellar performance, collecting three wins on the night. Besides his triumph with Romantic Warrior, he guided Marbaan to victory in the G2 Al Fahidi Fort and partnered Keffaaf to win the G3 Al Khail Trophy.

“It’s a privilege to ride horses of this caliber,” McDonald said. “Tonight was unforgettable.”

Unleashed Sets New Record

Arabian racing star Unleashed shattered his own track record in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge R2 (sponsored by Longines). Richie Mullen piloted the six-year-old to an impressive wire-to-wire victory, finishing in 2:06.60 for 1900m.

Trainer Jaber Bittar hinted at bigger goals: “The Kahayla Classic is next, and I’m confident he’ll stay the trip.”

The Dubai Racing Carnival resumes on Friday, January 31, with the G3 Dubai Millennium Stakes headlining another action-packed evening.