Gained his Group 1 breakthrough over today's trip at Tokyo in November and bettered that performance when very close second in Japan Cup over 1m4f there later that month; usually finishes well, and will be dangerous if he gets a good pace to aim at here.

Outstanding 8yo who created history when winning a fourth consecutive Hong Kong Cup over C&D in December; has collected another two Group 1s since (1m/1m2f), taking tally at this level to 13; commands respect.

Late-maturing 8yo who was placed in last year's Irish Champion Stakes over today's trip and showed career-best form when emphatic Group 1 winner over slightly further in Saudi Arabia in February; ought to make his presence felt.

Longchamp regular who won two Group 1s there last spring (10.5f/1m4f, good to soft) and kept on for commendable third in Arc de Triomphe (1m4f, very soft) in October; proved he can cope with much faster ground when bagging 1m4f Hong Hong Vase here in December but would appeal more over that trip.

Japanese raider; as good as ever when very close second in 1m2f Group 1 at Chukyo six weeks ago but probably needs to find hidden reserves here.

Resurgent 5yo who took Group 2 honours over 1m3f at Tokyo in February and was close fourth (just behind Giovanni) over this trip at that level last month; probably has a bit to find with the principals here, though.

Smart on his day and versatile trip-wise but seems badly to have lost his way this season and has too much to prove; headgear switched.

Smart when based in Australia and has 2-5 strike-rate in Hong Kong, having made all in 1m1f Group 3 handicap here in February; commendable second over C&D in last month's Hong Kong Derby but needs improvement today.