1

Clapton

An 1800m G2 winner at Churchill Downs last September, but his two runs at Meydan – though respectable thirds each time – do not suggest he will win this. Apparently, he likes to race wide.

2

Crupi

Has won four of his 13 starts in the US. Came from way off the speed to finish third in a hugely valuable G1 at Gulfstream Park in January. Up to 2000m for the first time.

3

Defunded

Formerly trained in the US by Bob Baffert when he led throughout to win a 2000m G1 at Santa Anita last May. Made no real impact for this stable in last month’s G1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz.

4

Derma Sotogake

Came close to becoming the first Japanese horse to win the 2000m G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic last year. Finishing strongly but too late when fifth in last month’s 1800m G1 Saudi Cup, and a return to this longer trip looks sure to suit.

5

Dura Erede

A shock 90-1 winner under this rider when landing a G1 over this trip at Nakayama back in 2022. More recent efforts make him look less likely to win this than the other Japanese challengers.

6

Kabirkhan

Joined local trainer Doug Watson after an 8-9 winning record across Kazakhstan and Russia, and really impressive in landing both starts at Meydan this year, latterly with a 1900m G1 victory in January. Interesting.

7

Laurel River

A 1400m G2 winner at Del Mar in 2022. He later had a long absence but has clearly adapted well to Dubai judging by his demolition of 15 rivals in a 1600m G3 here this month. Now needs to prove himself at 2000m in top company.

8

Military Law

Easily the oldest in this field but proved he still has what it takes when Oscar Chavez – riding him for the first time – steered him to a 1L victory in a 13-runner 1900m G2 here in March.

9

Newgate

Produced a sustained run in the straight to win a 2000m G1 at Santa Anita early this month, with both his 2024 performances suggesting he has blossomed into a top-class dirt performer.

10

Senor Buscador

Yet to win over this far but has delivered two red-hot performances over 1800m this year with two whirlwind finishes from off the pace, first when just held in a G1 at Gulfstream Park and then when leading in the last stride of the G1 Saudi Cup.

11

Ushba Tesoro

Accelerated from the rear in stunning fashion to win this huge prize last year. He looked like gaining his 12th career victory when leading close home in last month’s G1 Saudi Cup, only for Senor Buscador to nail him on the line.

12

Wilson Tesoro

Having his first start outside of Japan where he has won seven of his 15 starts. Only just beaten by Ushba Tesoro with another of today’s rivals Dura Erede third in a tense finish at Oi in December.