The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup delivered a night to remember, with over 1 billion worldwide tuning in on Saturday night to watch the action live from Meydan Racecourse and a record-breaking $30.5 million prize pool up for grabs.
Topping the night’s drama was a historic win in the $12 million main event, the richest race in global horse racing, as “Hit Show”, representing Qatar’s Wathnan Racing and ridden by Florent Geroux, surged to a sensational victory.
Watched by more than 60,000 fans in the stands and broadcasted across 170 countries, the event once again reinforced Dubai’s position as a powerhouse in horse racing.
“This is exactly how I imagined it,” Geroux said after the race. “I always ride Hit Show the same wa, and he always gives me everything he’s got.”
The race wasn’t short on drama. Geroux kept a close eye on rival Forever Young throughout, and when the moment came, he powered through with perfect timing.
A Global Spectacle
Broadcast across the world, the Dubai World Cup once again proved why it’s a highlight on the global racing calendar. From world-class organisation to cinematic broadcasts and family-friendly fan zones, the event had something for everyone.
Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, General Manager of the Emirates Racing Authority, praised the event as a reflection of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
The event has positioned the UAE as a global leader in equestrian sports. “The Dubai World Cup continues to stand out globally, uniting the best horses, jockeys, and trainers,” Al Shehhi said.
He also applauded the Dubai Racing Club, led by Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook bin Juma Al Maktoum, for delivering a flawless event that wowed international guests and elevated the UAE’s reputation on the world stage.
Victories for the UAE and Japan
While “Hit Show” stole the spotlight, Team UAE had its reasons to celebrate. Local favourite “Dubai Future”, trained by Emirati legend Saeed bin Suroor, took home the title in the Dubai Gold Cup, defying the odds at nine years old.
Meanwhile, the UAE’s ‘Dark Saffron’ claimed glory in the prestigious Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen, shining a light on the country’s growing prowess in international racing.
In one of the most emotional moments of the night, Cristian Demuro rode Japan’s “Soul Rush” to a stunning photo-finish win in the Dubai Turf, flipping the heartbreak of last year’s narrow loss into a triumphant victory.
“Last year, I lost by a nose,” Demuro said. “This year, I won by a nose. Luck was on my side.”
Meydan’s Legacy
Fifteen years after it opened, Meydan Racecourse remains one of the most advanced and prestigious venues in the world. Its cutting-edge facilities and high-level hospitality continue to draw top-tier talent and fans from across the globe.
Abdulaziz Al Maraziq, Executive Director of Dubai Stud, summed it up best: “The Dubai World Cup is now a symbol of excellence, not just in racing, but in organisation, hospitality, and international appeal.”
(Source: Wam)
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