Dubai World Cup proceeds at Meydan despite regional attacks and storms
The £23m Dubai World Cup meeting will proceed as planned at Meydan this Saturday, despite regional missile threats and recent heavy storms disrupting preparations.
The prestigious racing fixture in the United Arab Emirates continues a business-as-usual approach even as neighbouring conflicts escalate.
Local authorities state air defence systems have intercepted more than 2,200 missiles and drones since the onset of the current regional war.
Extreme weather has also hampered the buildup, with 58mm of overnight rain forcing the closure of the training track on Friday.
Global equine stars gather for lucrative prizes
Despite these geopolitical and meteorological challenges, the event has successfully attracted 101 runners from 16 different nations.
Three of the four highest-rated thoroughbreds on the planet will compete during the 30th running of the spectacular showcase.
Japanese sensation Forever Young enters the £9m marquee race as the overwhelming favourite to claim the ultimate prize.
Victory for the international globetrotter would remarkably push his career earnings past the £28m mark.
Ombudsman and Calandagan renew rivalries
British hopes rest largely on Ombudsman, who represents Sheikh Mohammed’s formidable Godolphin operation in the Dubai Turf.
The highly-rated raider returns to action 161 days after suffering defeat to Calandagan in the Champion Stakes at Ascot.
Trainer John Gosden previously secured three victories in this specific contest with stable star Lord North.
“This has been the plan since last October. He had a little away day at Chelmsford and we are happy with him,” Gosden said.
Calandagan himself will contest the Sheema Classic later in the evening to launch his seasonal campaign.
The French-trained gelding enjoyed a magnificent Group One-winning spree last year, culminating in a famous Japan Cup triumph.
Mullins sends Breeders’ Cup hero to Middle East
Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard remains unconcerned by the softened turf conditions awaiting his star performer.
“There has been a lot of rain and I don’t think that will bother Calandagan, though I don’t expect it will become really deep ground like we have in Europe,” Graffard noted.
Willie Mullins also brings high-profile representation with surprise Breeders’ Cup Turf victor Ethical Diamond.
“It’s the start of a long year for him but we’ve tried to get him as fit as we can,” the legendary Irish handler explained.
The elite field is completed by Giavellotto, making a fourth career appearance at the desert venue for Marco Botti.
