Joseph O’Brien may have missed out on securing a third Melbourne Cup in November, but a strong performance from Al Riffa in the Hong Kong Vase could provide a valuable consolation on international racing’s biggest stage at Sha Tin.

Unlike his 2024 Cup experience, where Breeders’ Cup commitments forced a rushed arrival into Melbourne, O’Brien has been hands-on with Al Riffa’s build-up for Sunday’s 2400-metre Group 1 — one of four premier contests at Hong Kong International Race Day.

The Wootton Bassett entire brings strong credentials, including his Group 1 victory in the Irish St Leger (2816m) and a seventh-place effort in the Melbourne Cup (3200m) on November 4.

“He has trained on well since being here and I am happy with him,” O’Brien said.

“I think it is a very competitive renewal of the race.”

The historical link is notable — both Dunaden (2011) and Highland Reel (2015) landed the Vase after competing during the Melbourne Spring Carnival.

“17 horses have come through the Melbourne Spring Carnival and then travelled on to Hong Kong to compete on this day,” Racing and Sports analyst Simon Dinopoulos said.

“Two of them have won and Al Riffa is among the better chances especially how open this edition of the Vase is.

“Horses coming out of the Cup have a good record in the Vase and his form at the trip says he’s one of the major players.”

Al Riffa will be ridden by Dylan Browne McMonagle, who arrived earlier this week before beginning a short-term Hong Kong riding stint.

“He’s got a lot of class,” McMonagle said.

“He’s a very straightforward horse and responds really well under pressure.

“You can put him wherever he wants to, he has a good kick.”

Barrier two gives McMonagle options, and O’Brien believes it simplifies decision-making.

“I think that makes the tactics on the day straightforward,” he said.

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