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| Staff Writer |
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The prestigious Hong Kong International Races have been dealt a double blow with the withdrawal of two significant contenders. Massive Sovereign, this year's Hong Kong Derby victor trained by Francis Lui, has been ruled out of the Gr.1 Longines Hong Kong Cup after sustaining a bone injury to his left hind leg.
The withdrawal reduces the field to 11 runners for Hong Kong's richest race, worth US$5.1 million. Liberty Island, representing Japan, now stands as the primary challenger to local champion Romantic Warrior, who is pursuing a remarkable third consecutive triumph in the contest.
In another setback, American speedster Nobals, trained by Larry Rivelli, has been withdrawn from the Gr.1 Hong Kong Sprint following complications with a fever. The 5YO's absence marks a disappointing turn of events, as he would have been the first United States representative at the meeting since 2017.
The Sprint vacancy has been filled by first reserve Flying Ace, with Matthew Poon Ming-fai securing the riding engagement for David Hall's charge. Chief steward Marc van Gestel explained: "Nobals continued to display a blood abnormality and is not suitable to start this Sunday."
The Hong Kong Cup has a rich history of international success, with previous winners including multiple Group One victor Jim And Tonic and Japanese superstar A Shin Hikari, who dominated the 2015 renewal. Romantic Warrior's bid for a third consecutive victory would place him among an elite group of horses to achieve such a feat in Hong Kong's premier international events.
The affected races remain highly competitive despite these withdrawals, with strong international representation still in place across the prestigious meeting. The Hong Kong Sprint, maintaining its full complement of 14 runners, continues to promise an intriguing clash between local and international talent.