James McDonald’s decision to ride in Dubai this year marks a significant moment in international racing, as the celebrated jockey prioritizes his bond with Romantic Warrior over prestigious commitments back home. The reigning World’s Best Jockey has taken a rare detour from Australia’s bustling autumn carnival to be part of the Dubai World Cup meeting, a showcase where his presence adds further star power. His debut appearance at the Meydan spectacle underscores not just the global nature of the event, but also the extraordinary stature of the horse that brought him there.
McDonald joins a select group of elite riders who have been recognized on a global stage. The title he now holds twice is typically dominated by legends like Frankie Dettori and Ryan Moore. While Dettori has made the Dubai meeting almost his personal stage with a record number of victories, McDonald’s journey to this arena is a deliberate exception rather than a routine outing. The clash with high-stakes races in Sydney has historically limited Australian representation in Dubai, making his participation this year all the more noteworthy.
At Meydan, McDonald is set to ride a trio of Hong Kong contenders in top-tier events. His primary mount, Romantic Warrior, is being prepared for the Dubai Turf. The horse has shown excellent conditioning following a recent campaign in Saudi Arabia, and trainer Danny Shum’s meticulous management has the gelding primed for a competitive run. McDonald remains cautious about the challenges ahead, acknowledging the caliber of rivals including previous winners and rising talents, but he carries quiet confidence in his mount’s consistency and international form.
Joining him on the card are Howdeepisyourlove and Sword Point. The former steps into the Al Quoz Sprint, having competed closely with Ka Ying Rising, a sprinter regarded by many as world-class. McDonald believes this straight 1200-meter test demands more endurance than it appears, and he is optimistic that Howdeepisyourlove is built for it. Sword Point, meanwhile, attempts the Godolphin Mile, entering a dirt race rare for Hong Kong horses, but McDonald plans to adopt a forward tactic to maximize the horse’s chances.
For McDonald, this moment is part of a broader narrative that began far from Dubai’s glamour. Growing up on a farm in New Zealand, he once envisioned a life among cattle rather than horses. Racing ponies as a child laid the early foundations, but success came not from raw talent alone. He attributes his rise to relentless effort and an enduring competitive spirit. His career trajectory has already eclipsed those of other New Zealand greats who found fame abroad, and at only 33, he’s far from finished.
His campaign to clinch a third World’s Best Jockey crown is well underway. He currently leads the standings with a significant margin, thanks to strong performances across a range of Group 1 races. While the Saudi Cup ended in disappointment, the experience continues to fuel his drive. He reflects often on the narrow defeat, contemplating the small margins that defined the outcome. Despite the loss, he sees the race as one of Romantic Warrior’s finest efforts, reinforcing his faith in the horse’s ability to deliver on the big stage.
As Dubai prepares for its marquee racing event, McDonald’s presence brings another layer of anticipation. His partnership with Romantic Warrior is emblematic of the evolving dynamics in global racing — where top talent, both human and equine, traverse continents in pursuit of greatness. The weekend promises a thrilling chapter in that story, with McDonald right at its center.
