By Sam Turner
Longines Dubai Sheema Classic hero Rebel’s Romance will face a maximum of 10 rivals in Saturday’s Ascot showpiece, the G1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes.
The Charlie Appleby-trained six-year-old wowed crowds on Dubai World Cup night with a sparkling performance in the marquee 2400m event under William Buick, beating off Japanese challengers Shahryar and Liberty Island to hand Godolphin another big-race success.
Further top-level glory ensued in Hong Kong with Buick guiding the son of Dubawi to a decisive victory in the Champions & Chater Cup in May and the multiple G1 winner looks to lock horns once more with Royal Ascot winner Auguste Rodin who trailed in last in the Sheema Classic.
Fellow Ballydoyle inmate, Point Lonsdale, himself a creditable sixth behind Rebel’s Romance at Meydan in March, could also head to Ascot alongside Coronation Cup winner Luxembourg who was previously a bitter disappointment in the Dubai Turf, beating just two home.
Continuous, Dubai Honour, Goliath, Hans Andersen, Middle Earth, Bluestocking and Sunway were others to stand their ground at the latest acceptance stage.
