Forever Young leads star-studded field in $12m Dubai World Cup
For the first time in its storied history, the $12 million Dubai World Cup (G1) will see just two locally trained contenders attempt to repel a formidable international challenge in the 29th edition of the prestigious race, set for Saturday, April 5, at Meydan Racecourse.
With a field of 11 elite thoroughbreds confirmed by the Dubai Racing Club on Monday, e xcitement is reaching fever pitch as the final field is confirmed for the latest chapter in one of the world's most prestigious races.
Dubai's hopes rest on Imperial Emperor and Walk of Stars, both conditioned by UAE champion trainer Bhupat Seemar, who is aiming for back-to-back victories after triumphing last year with Laurel River. Their presence marks a significant moment in the race's history, as it is believed to be the first time only two locally trained horses have taken on the world's best in this marquee event.
Historically, the Dubai World Cup has been a fortress for American-trained dirt specialists, boasting 14 victories since its inception in 1996, including Country Grammer, most recently in 2022.
True to its legacy, the US is represented by five contenders eager to reaffirm their dominance.
However, Japan, whose rapid ascent in global thoroughbred racing has been impossible to ignore, sends a powerful four-horse squad, including 2023 champion Ushba Tesoro, who is making his third consecutive appearance in the race.
Japan's challenge is led by Forever Young, the ante-post favourite and the electrifying winner of last month's $20 million Saudi Cup in Riyadh, where he fought off a fierce challenge from Hong Kong superstar Romantic Warrior in a thrilling showdown.
The rising four-year-old star has demonstrated exceptional class throughout 2024, adding marquee victories to his resume, including a dominant performance in the Tokyo Daishoten (G1) last December. His campaign also includes a third-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) at Del Mar and multiple Class 1 wins at Ohi, reinforcing his status as the horse to beat.
Dubai's Homegrown Hope
With Meydan form often proving pivotal in the Dubai World Cup, Imperial Emperor and Walk of Stars carry the weight of local expectations. Both horses have thrived on their home turf, and Seemar is optimistic about their chances against international opposition.
Imperial Emperor enters the race in peak form, having delivered a breathtaking performance in the Al Maktoum Classic (G2) on Super Saturday, where he stormed home by an emphatic 8 1/2 lengths. Jockey Tadhg O'Shea believes the Dubawi gelding is improving with every run and will be a serious contender in Saturday's showcase.
Seemar, assessing his two charges, said: 'Imperial Emperor is an uncomplicated horse and has done very well this year. His only loss came against Walk of Stars in the Al Maktoum Challenge in February, but he bounced back brilliantly in his last race.'
For British syndicate Deva Racing, which owns Imperial Emperor, the Dubai World Cup is the culmination of a dream journey. Ryan Tongue, Deva Racing's director, expressed his excitement after the gelding's last win: 'This horse owed us nothing before this race. We just wanted him to come back safe and sound. This is a dream come true. I can't believe we're in the Dubai World Cup!'
Meanwhile, Walk of Stars, runner-up in last year's Godolphin Mile, has had a mixed campaign, but Seemar remains confident in his ability to step up on the big night. 'He's immensely talented. The Saudi trip didn't work out for him, but now he's back on home ground, where he thrives,' said Seemar. 'Hopefully, both of them will run well on the big night.'
The American challenge is a blend of proven veterans and rising stars, including Hit Show (Candy Ride), Mixto (Good Magic), and Katonah (Klimt). With five representatives, the US contingent brings depth and experience, seeking to reclaim the trophy that has historically been theirs to lose.
Dubai Racing Club CEO Ali Al Ali underscored the exceptional standard of this year's contest, stating: 'The depth of talent in this year's Dubai World Cup is extraordinary. We are thrilled to welcome top-tier horses from around the world, and we look forward to an unforgettable night of racing.'
As race day approaches, Meydan takes center stage for another historic showdown. Will the American powerhouses extend their dominance? Can Japan's rising force take centre stage? Or will Seemar's hopefuls seize the moment and deliver another victory for Dubai?
The answers await on racing's grandest stage this Saturday.
Field for the 2024 Dubai World Cup
Forever Young (JPN) – The Saudi Cup champion and ante-post favorite.
Hit Show (USA) – A powerful contender trained by Brad Cox.
Il Miracolo (USA) – Representing Antonio Sano's stable.
Imperial Emperor (IRE) – The local hero seeking to make history for Dubai.
Katonah (USA) – One of Doug O'Neill's two runners.
Mixto (USA) – Another strong US challenger from the O'Neill barn.
Ramjet (JPN) – Adding depth to Japan's challenge.
Rattle N Roll (USA) – A top-tier American competitor.
Ushba Tesoro (JPN) – The 2023 champion aiming to reclaim his crown.
Walk of Stars (GB) – Another local hopeful trained by Bhupat Seemar.
Wilson Tesoro (JPN) – Rounding out Japan's formidable quartet.
Prize money
With a staggering $12 million prize purse, the Dubai World Cup remains one of the richest races on the planet. The breakdown is as follows:
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