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| Staff Writer |
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Facteur Cheval will head to Dubai next month after finishing seventh in the 2025 Saudi Cup, with connections keeping their options open regarding which race to target at Meydan.
The Jerome Reynier-trained runner could contest either the Gr.1 Dubai Turf or the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup, with a final decision to be made closer to the time.
Speaking after the Saudi Cup, Reynier said: "Maybe the Dubai Turf, maybe the Dubai World Cup, depending on the opposition, and I feel he really likes it in Meydan, and he's really training well on it, and he's been running well in the night. We keep our options open."
After his exertions in Saudi Arabia, the immediate focus is on ensuring Facteur Cheval recovers fully before preparations begin for his Dubai assignment.
"Right now he has to recover from his journey in Saudi, trip each way on the plane, and a tough race," explained Reynier. "Right now is like taking it easy for a few days, and we'll see when we will be countering back to prep him for the next step. Right now, he's having a nice life."
Royal Ascot On Summer Agenda
Looking beyond the Dubai World Cup meeting, Reynier indicated that his globetrotter could be heading for a well-deserved break before potentially targeting the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting in the summer.
"He had a busy winter, so maybe he'll have a break when he's back home. Last year, we've been aiming for the Royal Ascot meeting. Maybe he could go for the Queen Anne and the Prince of Wales, if he can stay mile and a quarter," the trainer revealed.
"So, there's no rush. I mean, he's been busy, and it's like he deserves to take it easy once he's back home and trying to aim for the right race when he is in great shape physically."
The French trainer will be hoping his charge can build on his Saudi Cup experience, having proven himself as a consistent performer at the highest level during a busy campaign that has seen him competing internationally throughout the winter months.