Silvestre de Sousa is sure Hunter’s Light will do himself justice as he lines up in Saturday’s Dubai World Cup at Meydan.
The Godolphin-owned five-year-old has won both his starts at the track this winter, most recently claiming the third round of the Al Maktoum Challenge.
His win in the acknowledged World Cup trial saw him promoted to the head of the ante-post market and a favourable draw in stall four has further enhanced his chances.
“The Dubai World Cup is a place like nowhere else,” de Sousa said.
“Hunter’s Light has shown much improvement this year and it’s all down to his ability on the night.
Monterosso won the race for Godolphin 12 months ago but he could finish no better than 10th behind Hunter’s Light last time.
However, that was his first run back after a long absence and jockey Mickael Barzalona thinks he has come on for the outing.
“It would be great to think we could win it again, and I feel he has improved quite a lot for his first run back,” Barzalona said.
Capponi finished a three-length second in the big race last term and will be having his first run since as he tackles the Group One event.
Red Cadeaux’s trainer Ed Dunlop declared himself “impressed” with his runner after watching his charge enjoy a gentle canter on the Tapeta for the first time.
“I was very impressed with the way he is moving on the surface, so we will see,” Dunlop said.
“We know he will stay and if he handles the surface, then hopefully we can pick up some prize money.
“It looks a very open race and the 2000-metre trip is an unknown for us as he has been running over longer distances.”
