Latest news with #29thDubaiWorldCup
Arab News
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
29th Dubai World Cup breaks records and paves way for the future of horse racing
The 29th Dubai World Cup marked a new milestone in international horse racing, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 65,000 spectators and offering an impressive $30.5 million in prize money across nine world-class races. Capping off a thrilling season, the event showcased Dubai Racing Club's commitment to delivering an exceptional racing experience on a truly global stage. A spectacular closing ceremony featuring a triple Guinness World Record-breaking drone and fireworks display lit up Meydan Racecourse, reinforcing Dubai's reputation for combining sport, innovation, and entertainment. One of the most anticipated events on the international racing calendar, the Dubai World Cup welcomed a record 170 global broadcasters and nearly 500 accredited media professionals, bringing the excitement from the track to screens globally. From thrilling races to exclusive hospitality, the energy was palpable both on-site and worldwide. The season's success extended beyond the main event. The Dubai Racing Carnival, which runs from November to March, saw a 34 percent rise in attendance, a testament to Dubai's growing appeal in the sport. Highlights included the much-anticipated Fashion Friday on Jan. 24, where Romantic Warrior secured his 10th Group 1 win in Jebel Hatta. International winners from the UK, France, Hong Kong, and Norway further underlined the carnival's global competitiveness. This season showcased strong infrastructure and global reach, largely due to Dubai's strategic location and its advanced equine transport and quarantine facilities. These factors position Dubai as a premier hub for international horse racing. Each year, the Dubai Racing Club's International Department imports and quarantines around 3,000 horses. This process facilitates smooth participation for competitors from around the world and strengthens the city's reputation as a leading destination for racing events. As in previous seasons, innovation was crucial, featuring new technologies such as drone-based coverage and advanced analytics through Total Performance Data. These improvements enhanced the viewing experience and offered valuable insights for fans, trainers, and analysts, all while maintaining the highest safety standards for horses, jockeys, and spectators. One of the most spectacular viral moments was the drone and fireworks display during the Dubai World Cup closing ceremony. This event not only broke three Guinness World Records but also showcased a commitment to innovation. 'These moments captivate our guests and project Dubai's excellence on a global stage, showcasing what's possible when cutting-edge technology and visionary event design come together,' said Sophie Ryan, head of corporate communications, marketing and brand at Dubai Racing Club. Beyond the racing, Meydan Racecourse evolved into a full-fledged lifestyle destination. The venue offered luxury suites, exclusive balconies, and high-end culinary experiences from restaurants including The MAINE, Beau, and Cipriani Dolce. Popular events like Ladies' Nights and the Style Stakes fashion competition added flair to the festivities, underscoring Dubai's blend of tradition and modern luxury. As for fashion, it remains a core part of the racing culture in Dubai. This season's Style Stakes, sponsored by Emaar, elevated the glamor with bold self-expression and cultural flair. From the elegance of Fashion Friday to Emirates Super Saturday, racegoers embraced the spirit of individuality. For the first time, Dubai Racing Club also introduced a Millinery Exhibition, celebrating the artistry of hat-making and offering a new opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to shop one of the most essential elements of the horse racing outfit. What can we anticipate for the upcoming seasons? As preparations begin for the 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026, Dubai Racing Club is deepening global partnerships with organizations like Churchill Downs and The Jockey Club. With new hospitality collaborations on the horizon, the future promises an even more immersive and world-class experience for racing fans. 'The 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026 will deliver the most memorable celebration, setting a new benchmark for the sport,' added Ryan. As the curtain falls on an unforgettable season, one thing is clear — Dubai Racing Club is not just hosting the future of horse racing; it is defining it.
Gulf Today
07-04-2025
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Dubai holds unique status among world's premier horse racing events: Mohammed
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Saturday attended the 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup at the iconic Meydan Racecourse. Joining Sheikh Mohammed at the prestigious global event were Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; and Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance. Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed said that the enduring global interest in the Dubai World Cup since its launch in 1996 reflects the UAE's distinguished standing across a range of sectors, including sports. He highlighted the nation's rise as a global destination for horse racing, driven by world-class infrastructure, organisational excellence, and strong international partnerships that bring together leading owners, trainers, and jockeys from around the world. Sheikh Mohammed stated: "We take great pride in the Dubai World Cup's unique status among the world's premier horse racing events, whether in terms of prize money, quality of competition, or global reach. The Dubai World Cup has become a global event where cultures converge, serving as a reminder that sport has the power to bring people closer and unite nations. Horse racing will always be a proud part of our heritage and a meaningful link between our past and the future we strive to build.' After the race, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid congratulated the winners. In his post on platform X, Sheikh Mohammed wrote: "An extraordinary night at the Dubai World Cup, with the participation of the top 100 horses from around the globe, along with the best jockeys and horse owners from all five continents. "Congratulations to Qatar and my brother Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani on winning the main race of the Dubai World Cup with the horse "Hit Show." "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the horse owners and jockeys for making this evening truly remarkable. "We take pride in this spectacular event for the UAE, which was broadcast live to over 170 countries worldwide. We look forward to welcoming you again next year in good health and high spirits." Welcoming guests attending the 29th Dubai World Cup, Sheikh Mohammed noted the event's growing stature on the international sporting calendar. He also acknowledged the efforts of the organising team in ensuring the success of the event and supporting Dubai's growing role in the global horse racing community. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed presented the Dubai World Cup trophy to the winner of the main Group1 race Hit Show, ridden by jockey Florent Geroux, trained by Brad Cox, and owned by Wathnan Racing. The 2000 metre dirt track race, sponsored by Emirates Airline, featured 11 elite horses competing for a total purse of $12 million. The 29th Dubai World Cup attracted an outstanding field of top-ranked horses from around the globe, representing some of the most prominent owners, breeders, and trainers in the sport. A total of 102 horses from 13 countries competed across nine races, for a total prize money of $30.5 million, including the $12 million awarded in the final race. Distinguished attendees at the event included Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Also present were Sheikh Rashed Bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club, alongside a number of dignitaries, leading horse owners, breeders, and racing enthusiasts from around the world. The Dubai World Cup was first held in 1996 at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, as part of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum's broader vision to position Dubai as a hub for international sport. WAM
Al Etihad
06-04-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
How Dark Saffron lit up Meydan for stunning home delight
7 Apr 2025 00:13 KUUMAR SHYAM (DUBAI)The 29th Dubai World Cup had a surprise main winner – Hit Show – while also dishing out an equally stunning local delight when Dark Saffron dazzled in the spotlight at the Meydan Racecourse on Saturday. Not only did the gelding son of Meadow Saffron take home the winner's purse of Dh1.16 million for owner Sultan Ali, he became the first three-year-old to defeat a race for usually horses at least twice his age. Trained by Ahmed bin Harmash, the Emirati horse defied expectations in winning the race in 1:11:41 minutes, ahead of Nakatomi and the defending champion Tuz. The cream of the horse racing world has descended in the UAE for the showpiece event, carrying a total prize money of $30.5m, with Hit Show proving a surprise winner for the main prize among nine races on the card. While a couple of horses only justified their favourite tags, one of the most notable and pleasant good news came from the hosts' very own fraternity in the sixth race when Connor Beasley kept him in the front for most of the 1,200-metre sprint. Tuz got stuck behind the eventual winner and with Nakatomi on the right even as the most fancied Straight No Chaser never got started when the gates presence of two three-year-olds in the race for the first time since 2006 was already a talking point pre-race when Dark Saffron and American Stage were entered. Only five three-year-olds had ever contested in the history of the competitors like Tuz and Straight No Chaser, it looked even less likely when Dark Saffron drew stall 11 after couple of non-runners. But Beasley managed to straighten his head at the right time and mustered speed only horse able to stay in touch with the three-year-olds was Tuz, who landed in the box seat and appeared likely to capitalise once they punctured. However, he also came under riding approaching the 600m and his bid for back to back wins appeared though, is all heart and tried to rally up the rail. This is where Beasley's tactical masterpiece came to the fore as he shut the door on Tadhg O'Shea aboard Tuz on a number of occasions. Nakatomi charged late, Tuz made ground when it was all over but Dark Saffron, with a 3.5kg swing in the weights, was able to fend them off. He gave Beasley his second win of the night following First Classs's Kahayla Classic success. The Dubai Golden Shaheen was contested as a 'Win and You're In' qualifier for the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint on Nov. 1 at Del admitted he was "a bit speechless" about his willing partner. "He's one of them, he's just kept improving and he was in up against good competition on the turf. He's got speed to burn and to do what he's just done is incredible. "It's just a big relief. This is what it's all about. We've got a good bunch of horses and to get a big winner like this on a night like this, it's just fantastic. He's got plenty of natural speed and it was probably a blessing being drawn out wide because I only had one option."Bhupat Seemar, the handler for Tuz, said: "This is horse racing and these things happen. Tactically they got the race on us, so it is how it is. They went fast and maybe we could have gone a bit faster, but the door wasn't open. I don't think he couldn't lie up." Straight No Chaser finished a miserable eighth and jockey John Velazquez said: "He jumped, I asked him but he didn't go. That's not his style, his style is 'come and get him'. At least if he lays close he's fine, but he just didn't even do that."
Khaleej Times
06-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Long shots rewrite the Dubai World Cup script ay Meydan
Under the bright lights of Meydan Racecourse and before a capacity crowd exceeding 60,000, the 29th Dubai World Cup unfolded not as a coronation for the fancied horses but as a sobering reminder of how unpredictable top-level sport can be. In a single evening, favourites fell like chess kings being cornered by pawns, reputations were updated, and new heroes were immortalised into global racing consciousness. The $12 million feature race brought the curtain down on a memorable night with a result few would have predicted. Hit Show, a five-year-old American colt trained by Eclipse award-winning handler Brad H. Cox and ridden by Kentucky-based French rider Florent Geroux, delivered a performance of tactical boldness and stamina to win the Dubai World Cup at odds of 80/1. He was expected to be a participant, nothing more. Instead, he led a reshuffling of the world's pecking order in dirt racing. The much-vaunted Japanese contender Forever Young backed into 4/9 favouritism, could not muster a meaningful response in the final 400 metres after looming large at the top of the stretch, which was less an indictment of the colt's ability than a demonstration of the residual toll exacted by his energy-sapping Saudi Cup victory four weeks earlier. His third-place finish behind Hit Show and fellow American Mixto underscored the punishing demands of international competition at this level. Geroux, who rode Hit Show with quiet calculation rather than fireworks, admitted post-race that his initial ambition was simply to hit the board. "I was aiming for a place. But he kept finding more. It's rare, that kind of determination." It was a defining moment not just for the horse, but for Wathnan Racing of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, who were making their Dubai World Cup debut. Their arrival on the international racing stage could not have been more emphatic. As for Walk of Stars, the UAE's chief hope in the World Cup itself, a strong gate draw and a smart ride by French ace Mickael Barzalona saw him run with credit. His fourth-place finish — just behind three battle-hardened international raiders — was a result of professionalism, not flair. 'He did everything right,' said trainer Bhupat Seemar. 'No excuses. That's the level we're playing at now.' Across the undercard, a consistent theme emerged: local and regional stables, often overshadowed in these global gatherings, refused to play supporting roles. Doug Watson, a long-established name in UAE racing and multiple-time champion trained, opened the evening by turning over the much-feared Saudi challengers in the $1m Dubai Kahayla Classic (G1) with First Class, a result that instantly determined the narrative for the evening. In the $2m Golden Shaheen Sprint, Ahmed bin Harmash - who purchased Dark Saffron for $120,000 at the 2024 Ocala Breeders' Sales Spring Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training, saw his new stable star make history when he was ridden heroically by Conor Beasley to become the first three-year-old to win marquee sprint contest. Japanese runners, typically formidable in international festivals like the Dubai World Cup, found plenty of success — though not always where expected. Lesser popular Admire Daytona disrupted a strong bunch of three-year-olds in the UAE Derby, securing a potential ticket to the Kentucky Derby (G1) and reminding observers that the road to Louisville can start in Dubai. The withdrawal of Japanese standout Liberty Island left a vacuum in the turf races, but fellow Japanese galloper Danon Decile filled the gap with a composed win in the $6m Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) The most dramatic of Japan's three victories came in the $5m Dubai Turf (G1), where Soul Rush dismantled a field led by Hong Kong's 10-time Group 1 winner Romantic Warrior, a horse previously considered near-invincible at this distance, to win by the proverbial nose. Local challenger Maljoom representing championship-bound Australian handler Michael Costa's Jebel Ali yard, ran a blinder to finish a creditable third. The comeback of the night belonged to Emirati handler Saeed bin Suroor, who returned to prominence with Dubai Future in the $1m Dubai Gold Cup. The Godolphin veteran, a dominant force in the Dubai World Cup with an unparalleled nine victories, reminded racing of his enduring relevance. Dubai Future, a nine-year-old son of top Darley sire Dubawi, has been beset with injuries time after time forcing him to miss a huge chunk of his career. Having returned this season following a 427-day layoff to win the Nad Al Sheba Trophy at the Carnival, Dubai Honour stepped up to two miles for the first time and ran with authority, vindicating Bin Suroor's patient approach and masterly training skills. 'It is not easy for any horse to be sound their whole life, and he had a few setbacks, although they were nothing major,' said Bin Suroor.'It took a while but thank God he has come back. Now we will take him to France next month for the G1 Prix Vicomtesse Vigier.' Dubai Honour was ridden by former British champion jockey Brazilian Silvestre de Sousa who 12 years ago teamed up with Bin Suroor to win the Gold Cup with Cavalryman. If the evening confirmed anything, it is that racing at this tier tolerates no complacency. Favourites are good for media headlines, but they win nothing on paper. Horses considered outmatched in form took their chance and exposed the fragility of pre-race assumptions. There is no strightforward script in this sport, and the 2025 Dubai World Cup affirmed that with every unexpected result. It was a night not about predictability, but about every possibility — where preparation, opportunity, and perhaps just a touch of good fortune, united to restructure the flat-racing landscape.
06-04-2025
- Business
Mohammed bin Rashid attends 29th Dubai World Cup
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today attended the 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup at the iconic Meydan Racecourse. Joining His Highness at the prestigious global event were His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance. Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that the enduring global interest in the Dubai World Cup since its launch in 1996 reflects the UAE's distinguished standing across a range of sectors, including sports. He highlighted the nation's rise as a global destination for horse racing, driven by world-class infrastructure, organisational excellence, and strong international partnerships that bring together leading owners, trainers, and jockeys from around the world. His Highness stated: 'We take great pride in the Dubai World Cup's unique status among the world's premier horse racing events, whether in terms of prize money, quality of competition, or global reach. The Dubai World Cup has become a global event where cultures converge, serving as a reminder that sport has the power to bring people closer and unite nations. Horse racing will always be a proud part of our heritage and a meaningful link between our past and the future we strive to build.' Welcoming guests attending the 29th Dubai World Cup, His Highness noted the event's growing stature on the international sporting calendar. He also acknowledged the efforts of the organising team in ensuring the success of the event and supporting Dubai's growing role in the global horse racing community. Main race winner crowned His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum presented the Dubai World Cup trophy to the winner of the main Group1 race Hit Show, ridden by jockey Florent Geroux, trained by Brad Cox, and owned by Wathnan Racing. The 2000 metre dirt track race, sponsored by Emirates Airline, featured 11 elite horses competing for a total purse of US$12 million. Global showcase of equestrian excellence The 29th Dubai World Cup attracted an outstanding field of top-ranked horses from around the globe, representing some of the most prominent owners, breeders, and trainers in the sport. A total of 102 horses from 13 countries competed across nine races, for a total prize money of US$30.5 million, including the US$12 million awarded in the final race. Distinguished attendees at the event included His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; His Highness Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Also present were Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club, alongside a number of dignitaries, leading horse owners, breeders, and racing enthusiasts from around the world. The Dubai World Cup was first held in 1996 at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, as part of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's broader vision to position Dubai as a hub for international sport. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
