Multiple Meydan group 1-winning rider Mickael Barzalona has been booked to ride Facteur Cheval for his dirt debut in the Maktoum Challenge (G1) at Meydan Racecourse Jan. 24.
Reigning Dubai Turf (G1T) winner Facteur Cheval, trained in France by Jerome Reynier, arrives in Dubai Jan. 10, two weeks out from the big race.
Barzalona has a good record on the gelding; finishing second in the Queen Elizabeth II (G1) at Ascot and third in the Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (G1) on his only two rides on the soon-to-be 6-year-old.
Barry Irwin of owners Team Valor International said: “Maxime Guyon rode him to win the Dubai Turf and we have the utmost respect for him. However, dirt is a new game for our boy and Mickael has won the Maktoum Challenge four times, so he has the experience and expertise for the job.”
Irish-bred Facteur Cheval is using the Maktoum Challenge to see if he can be effective on dirt. If it proves viable, he will target the Feb. 22 Saudi Cup (G1) and the April 5 Dubai World Cup (G1). Should he flop on dirt, connections have indicated that he will stay in the United Arab Emirates to defend his title in the Dubai Turf on World Cup night.
Facteur Cheval races in partnership with Hollywood movie producer Gary Barber of Southern California.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
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