Christophe Soumillon is preparing for another shot at glory in Hong Kong as he reunites with the talented Goliath for the prestigious FWD QEII Cup this Sunday at Sha Tin. The celebrated Belgian jockey has already left a lasting imprint on Hong Kong’s racing landscape, having captured some of its most coveted titles. His partnership with Goliath marks another exciting chapter in a career punctuated by high-stakes triumphs across the globe.
Goliath, a five-year-old trained by Francis Graffard, is returning to action for the first time since his last appearance in Japan. Despite not performing to expectations in the Japan Cup, where he finished outside the top five, the horse returns fresh from a short rest and is expected to appreciate the slightly shorter distance of this weekend’s contest. His previous victory in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot remains a standout performance, where he stunned a high-class field that included future major race winners.
Soumillon, known for his strategic brilliance and calm demeanour under pressure, has high hopes for Goliath’s debut in Hong Kong. The rider believes that his mount is in top form, and that the 2000-metre trip suits the horse well on his seasonal reappearance. He emphasized that a well-run race with a genuine tempo will be essential for Goliath to show his true capabilities. The gelding’s preference for a right-handed track and a decent cruising speed are elements the jockey hopes will work in their favour.
Interestingly, Goliath has drawn attention not only for his performances but also for his peculiar gait. His unusual way of walking has intrigued observers, though it poses no hindrance once he’s in full flight during a race. The contrast between his quirky stride and his speed on the track adds an element of surprise to his story, and fans will be keen to see how he performs in this leg of his international campaign.
Looking ahead, the connections have ambitious plans for Goliath, with appearances in England, Australia, the United States, and Japan being considered. Sunday’s race will likely set the tone for the rest of the season. With an open field expected and plenty of top-tier talent in the mix, the race tactics will play a crucial role. Soumillon is hopeful for a favourable draw and a smooth break from the gates, which would allow Goliath to settle in an ideal position close to the pace.
As FWD Champions Day approaches, all eyes will be on Sha Tin, where Goliath and Soumillon aim to combine for another landmark achievement. Their synergy and shared experience on racing’s biggest stages make them a compelling pair to watch in a contest that promises drama, speed, and world-class competition.
