Romantic Warrior will face only seven rivals when Danny Shum’s globetrotter contests the Group 1 Jebel Hatta over nine furlongs at Meydan Racecourse in Dubai on Friday.

The world’s highest-earning racehorse will challenge last season’s Jebel Hatta winner and course record-holder Measured Time, who will bid to give trainer Charlie Appleby his fifth victory in the race since 2016.

Appleby will also field Ottoman Fleet on Friday, aiming to give Godolphin its 10th Jebel Hatta triumph, while jockey William Buick is attempting to snare his fifth Jebel Hatta victory on dual Group 1 victor Measured Time.

Preparing for the Group 1 Saudi Cup on dirt in Riyadh on February 22nd, Romantic Warrior will also face Ancient Rome, Holloway Boy, Poker Face, Royal Dubai and San Donato on Friday in quest of an 18th win.

The Hong Kong star worked at Meydan on Tuesday morning under James McDonald, effortlessly cruising clear of stable companion and workmate Romantic Charm over the final furlong.

“He was really good, had only a light piece of work and breezed home nicely, so very happy,” McDonald said. “He was just breezing – not fast for him. He’s really good – (in) good form.

“He’s obviously got a big challenge ahead, but he’s in good form.”

Romantic Warrior has not raced since recording a record third consecutive win in the Group 1 Hong Kong Cup over 10 furlongs at Sha Tin on December 8th.

Shum, who has successfully campaigned Romantic Warrior in Australia and Japan, is pleased with his charge’s preparation.

“It’s almost the same, not much difference,” Shum said when asked to compare previous overseas ventures. “He’s good, healthy, happy and strong. He’s now used to all the trips overseas. He’s a tough horse.

“He has our stable team and Romantic Charm with him, so he understands he is safe. The idea of his work under James is just to get him used to the turf. He is good.”