Hong Kong’s champion racehorse, ROMANTIC WARRIOR, may yet return to Riyadh for another shot at The Saudi Cup, trainer Danny Shum has suggested. The celebrated competitor fell just short of victory last weekend, engaging in a thrilling duel with Japan’s FOREVER YOUNG before finishing a narrow second in the world’s richest horse race.
The 10-time Group 1 victor was edged out by only a neck in a gripping conclusion at King Abdulaziz Racecourse. Jockey James McDonald maneuvered the three-time Hong Kong Cup champion skillfully around the home turn, making significant headway on the widest path. However, last year’s Saudi Derby winner, FOREVER YOUNG, surged past in the final strides, leaving a clear gap of over ten lengths between them and third-placed USHBA TESORO, the 2024 runner-up.
Reflecting on the performance, Shum expressed immense pride in ROMANTIC WARRIOR’s effort, describing the race as one that will be talked about for years to come. Despite the narrow defeat, the trainer emphasized that the horse had recovered exceptionally well, returning to full fitness and maintaining a positive demeanor in the days following the contest.
While Shum had initially outlined a long-term plan centered around Hong Kong, the dramatic nature of The Saudi Cup finish has left the possibility of a return to the prestigious US$20 million event open for discussion. The trainer acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, particularly with ROMANTIC WARRIOR set to be an eight-year-old next year, while FOREVER YOUNG will be in his prime at five. Nevertheless, he has not ruled out another attempt.
Looking ahead, the plan remains to contest a Group 2 race in November, followed by another bid for the Hong Kong Cup. Should ROMANTIC WARRIOR maintain his form, the team will evaluate the feasibility of following a similar campaign, which could include a trip to Dubai before considering another Saudi Cup challenge.
Currently based in Dubai since December, ROMANTIC WARRIOR is preparing for upcoming engagements. His next target is the Dubai Turf on April 5, following his earlier victory in the Jebel Hatta at Meydan Racecourse. There is also a possibility of competing in Japan, where he secured the YASUDA KINEN last June, though logistical factors such as quarantine regulations remain a consideration.
Shum confirmed ongoing discussions with both the Japanese Racing Authority and the Hong Kong agricultural department regarding potential participation in Japan. However, should travel restrictions pose an obstacle, ROMANTIC WARRIOR will likely return to Hong Kong to compete in the Group 2 event before another Hong Kong Cup campaign.
