Hong Kong’s star performer Romantic Warrior (IRE) will jump from gate 3 in Saturday’s US$20 million Saudi Cup, as he looks to extend his dominance to Riyadh’s dirt track.

The world's highest-earning racehorse has been a major attraction since arriving in Saudi Arabia, drawing significant international attention. Even during a brief parade ring visit at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on Wednesday afternoon, all eyes were on him.

Later that evening, at the Cultural Village draw ceremony, trainer Danny Shum and jockey James McDonald learned their starting position. Romantic Warrior, renowned for his turf heroics across multiple jurisdictions, now faces the challenge of replicating that success on dirt.

"We’re happy with it," said McDonald, after his wife, Katelyn, made the selection on stage. "We didn’t have any preference for a particular draw. He’s been handling the dirt well, the team is pleased with him, and he’s got great gate speed."

Japan’s Top Hope Draws Wide

Japanese contender Forever Young (JPN), who claimed victory in last year’s US$1.5 million Saudi Derby, returns to Riyadh but wasn’t as fortunate in the draw, landing gate 14.

Trainer Yoshito Yahagi, however, remained unfazed: "I don’t stress too much about the draw, but I do prefer an outside gate over an inside one."

Rattle N Roll Well Placed in Seven

American hopeful Rattle N Roll (USA), trained by Kenny McPeek and representing Sharaf Mohamad Alhariri & Lucky Seven Stable, will start from gate 7. The five-year-old recently impressed with victory in The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup.

"We like the seven—great spot," said McPeek. "He’s got strong finishing speed. It’s an advantage that he’s already won here, and he’s come back bigger, stronger, and better this time."

Other Notable Draws

Walk Of Stars (GB), winner of the Al Maktoum Challenge, will break from gate 6, while Facteur Cheval (IRE), third in the same race, has gate 12.

Trainer Bhupat Seemar is optimistic: "He’s improving with every run, and I believe there’s more to come. He just needs to settle into the environment."

Ushba Tesoro (JPN), a late closer, drew gate 1. Trainer Noboru Takagi is confident in his adaptability: "He’s a horse that comes from behind, so I think he’ll handle it well."

Wilson Tesoro (JPN) will jump from gate 4, with Takagi noting: "His condition has been improving, and I’m looking forward to his run. It’s a good draw for him."

Ramjet (JPN) secured gate 9, and trainer Shozo Sasaki was pleased: "I’m happy with the draw. He traveled well and is in good shape for the race."

Remaining Runners & Draws

Al Musmak (IRE) (10)

Defunded (USA) (11)

El Kodigo (ARG) (13)

Intense For Me (ARG) (2)

Wait To Excel (GB) (8)

Wootton’sun (FR) (5)

With the draw now set, anticipation is building for the 2025 Saudi Cup, as some of the world’s top dirt and turf stars prepare for a thrilling showdown in Riyadh.