Don Diego De Vega will be looking to reignite his Australian career when he returns to the races in Saturday’s Listed Lord Mayors Cup (2000m) at Rosehill, with co-trainer Rob Archibald confident he’s improved this preparation.

The former French galloper showed early promise after arriving in Australia but struggled during his latest campaign, finishing unplaced in two summer runs. Archibald believes firmer ground may have hindered the five-year-old’s performances and is hopeful he can bounce back this time around.

“He’s definitely the one with the biggest x-factor in the group,” Archibald said. “Last prep was a bit underwhelming, but we’ve had much better signs from him this time. It’s not uncommon for Europeans to take a few runs to settle into the conditions here.”

“This time there are no excuses. He’s forward, he’s training well, and the conditions should suit him better on Saturday.”

Stablemate Shahzad enters the Lord Mayors Cup off a strong win on a rain-affected Gold Coast surface and is rated a live each-way chance, despite the drop in distance from his last start over further ground.

“He’s probably ready for more ground, but we’ve brought him back with the Winter Cup in mind,” Archibald said. “It’s a tough race and he’s slightly out of the handicap, but he’s improving and that last win gave him confidence.”

Joining them will be Sir Chartwell, Mormona, and Double Cherry, with the stable looking to have a strong presence in staying features leading into next month’s Winter Cup (2400m) at Rosehill.

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