Romantic Warrior could begin his audacious dirt campaign in January after connections entered the superstar for the Group One Al Maktoum Challenge (1,900m) in Dubai.

After blowing his rivals away on seasonal reappearance at Sha Tin earlier this month, Romantic Warrior will chase a third straight Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) on December 8 before possibly heading to the Middle East for the Al Maktoum Challenge, which takes place at Meydan racecourse on January 24.

With owner Peter Lau Pak-fai targeting the world’s richest race, the US$20 million Saudi Cup, in February alongside April’s US$12 million Dubai World Cup, the Al Maktoum Challenge will allow Romantic Warrior to get his first taste of the dirt.

Trainer Danny Shum Chap-shing and owner Peter Lau Pak-fai are believed to be finalising plans for the eight-time Group One winner later this week.