Trainer Matt Cumani is confident Tempesti can bounce back from a luckless Australian debut when he returns to racing in Saturday’s Sportsbet Race Replays Handicap (1800m) at Sandown.

The Italian-bred galloper suffered a frightening injury at Flemington in March when galloped on, narrowly avoiding a catastrophic tendon injury. Since then, the six-year-old has made a full recovery, impressing in a recent 1300m jump-out at Ararat.

“He was very lucky,” Cumani said. “The wound missed his tendon by just a millimetre. It derailed our plans, but thankfully he’s pulled through.”

Tempesti, who boasts nine wins from 20 starts, was imported from Europe last year after racing in Italy and Germany. He has strong ties to the legendary breeder Frederico Tesio, adding sentimental value to the purchase for Cumani, whose father Luca was born in Milan.

“It’s special for me to have a horse from Tesio’s breeding line,” Cumani said. “He’s a lovely type and it’s a pleasure to train him.”

While 1800m is expected to be short of his optimum distance, Cumani believes Saturday’s race is a suitable launching pad for a longer winter campaign. Plans could include the Banjo Patterson Series and potentially The Bart Cummings — a Melbourne Cup qualifier — in spring.

“Ultimately, we’re building toward 2400 metres and beyond,” Cumani said. “His form overseas was strong over those distances, and even in his first run here, he was finishing off well despite the injury.”

“He handles soft ground, so if it rains, that’ll only boost his chances. He’s ready to get his campaign underway.”