Latest news with #DubaiWorldCup
New Paper
a day ago
- Business
- New Paper
Anticipation builds as Meydan gears up for landmark season
DUBAI - The stage is set for another thrilling season of world-class racing at the iconic Meydan racecourse, as Dubai Racing Club announced the dates for the 2025-26 Dubai Racing Carnival. Spanning 17 race meetings, the season kicks off on Nov 7, and reaches its spectacular conclusion on March 28, 2026, which will draw global attention with the 30th running of the Group 1 Dubai World Cup (2,000m). While the Dubai World Cup meeting and the Emirates Super Saturday meeting are held on Saturdays, the remaining 15 meetings at Meydan will be run on Fridays. Known as the world's single richest race day, the Dubai World Cup meeting will mark a historic milestone in 2026, celebrating three decades since its inaugural race in 1996. The premier sporting event in the United Arab Emirates came about as part of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision to position Dubai as a global hub for elite racing. It was initially held at Nad Al Sheba racecourse, but moved to the sprawling Meydan racecourse from 2010. The Dubai World Cup meeting - run annually bar a cancellation in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic - has since gained international traction, attracting top-class horses, trainers and jockeys across the globe with its rich prize purse. On April 5, the Wathnan Racing-owned US runner Hit Show landed the 29th edition of the highlight dirt race worth US$12 million (S$15.4 million), after he beat Japanese raider and race favourite Forever Young into third. The 2025-26 Dubai Racing Carnival will still conclude with the Dubai World Cup meeting, where the Dubai World Cup takes centre stage. But, similar to the 2024-25 season, there will be three other feature race days that would anchor the new Dubai season. The Festive Friday meeting will kick off the holiday spirit on Dec 19, when fans and racing enthusiasts can look forward to the 1 million dirham (S$350,000) Group 2 Maktoum Mile (1,600m). Five weeks later on Jan 23, 2026, the Fashion Friday meeting will see the running of the 3.68 million dirham Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge (1,900m), which offers a coveted Bonus Scheme berth that gives the winner a guaranteed spot in the Dubai World Cup. Meanwhile, the Group 2 Al Maktoum Classic (1,900m) slated for the Emirates Super Saturday meeting - a cornerstone of the Dubai Racing Carnival - on Feb 28, 2026, is also a qualifying race that grants the winner automatic entry into the Dubai World Cup. "The Dubai World Cup is firmly established as one of the world's great sporting and social spectacles," said Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Racing Club. "As we prepare for its 30th edition in 2026 - a milestone to be truly celebrated - we look forward to welcoming the finest horses, jockeys and connections from around the world. "The 16 lead-up meetings of the Dubai Racing Carnival promise exceptional competition and international flair. "Thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Carnival continues to elevate Dubai's position on the global racing stage." Added CEO and board member of Dubai Racing Club, Ali Al Ali: "We are extremely proud of the growth of both the Dubai World Cup and Dubai Racing Carnival over the past three decades. "Under the guidance of our leaders, we are working hard to ensure that we fulfil their visions and make the 30th Dubai World Cup a truly unforgettable experience for both horse racing professionals and fans." DUBAI RACING CLUB
Winnipeg Free Press
5 days ago
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Twolefttoload turns heads with R.C. Anderson Stakes triumph
Like a runaway freight train, there was no stopping Twolefttoload once she got rolling in the $40,000 R.C. Anderson Stakes on Tuesday night at Assiniboia Downs. At least not until she hit the wire. After that, she coasted to a stop, turned, and trotted proudly back to the winner's circle to meet her injured but beaming groom Brittany Bergen and trainer Mike Nault. 'I was leading our other filly in the race, frankly, to the paddock, and I tripped and she stepped on me with her hind foot,' said Bergen, pointing out a bruise on her lower calf that looked like a hammer hit. 'She just stepped on me and stood there. But Twolefttoload won, so I didn't feel a thing after that.' Jason Halstead / Assiniboia Photo Mike Nault's assistant trainer/groom Brittany Bergen had a reason to smile after winning the R.C. Anderson Stakes with Twolefttoload. Bergen was glowing as Twolefttoload strutted into the winner's circle like she owned the place. 'She's goofy, she's quirky, and she's always on edge around the barn,' said Bergen. 'But in the paddock and the race, she puts her game face on. She knows when it's time to go to work.' Trailing by nearly 10 lengths early in the one-mile race behind fleet-footed favourite Nikkitysplit, Twolefttoload shifted gears after leaving the first turn, picking up horses with every stride, and by the time she got to the final turn, jockey Damario Bynoe had her in full gear and flying. There would be no stopping her now. She took over from Nickkitysplit in mid-stretch and drew off to win by 21/2 lengths. It was the first stakes victory for Twolefttoload and a reversal of form from her previous start, where Nikkitysplit beat her by 31/2 lengths going three-quarters of a mile. The added distance made all the difference. 'She's so big,' said Nault. 'You don't want to ask her to sprint. She's not built for that. She's still maturing, still learning. But she's tough as nails, and she's only going to get better.' Bred in Manitoba by Cam Ziprick and Charlie and Stephane Fouillard of Russell, Twolefttoload is the second stakes winner this year by Speculating. The other? Nikkitysplit. In a game where early success can make or break a stallion, it's been a breakthrough season for Speculating, who is also owned by Ziprick and Charlie Fouillard. 'We kind of flipped the script with this one,' said Ziprick. 'Last year, I wasn't even sure she'd be much. Her legs were going in every direction and she looked like an egg beater. But she's figured it out. The distance helps. The more you ask her to sprint, the worse her action gets. Let her roll, and she eats up ground like nobody's business.' That long, steaming stride didn't come out of nowhere. Sire Speculating is a half-brother to $5.1-million earner and Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Well Armed, and graded stakes producer Witty, winner of the Railbird Stakes (G3). And he's by Medaglia d'Oro, whose progeny have earned more than $209 million. Twoleftoload's dam, Talkn Til Midnight was a bit on the flighty side, but she was calm enough when it counted to win four races and finish second in a Maiden Special Weight race among the bluebloods at Saratoga. She also sold for US$180,000 as a two-year-old. 'She was a nut,' said Nault. 'But she had talent, and that nervous energy, it's a thing. Some of the best racehorses in history were out of quirky mares. You just have to learn how to channel it.' Channeling that energy hasn't been easy. Twolefttoload isn't the type of filly you just tack up and send out for a jog. 'She's hard on herself,' said Nault. 'She throws her head, tries to run off, pounds the ground. She's tough to gallop. But she's got heart. You give her space to grow, and she'll give it back in spades.' Assistant trainer and groom Bergen knows all about her quirks. She's been working with Nault for four years and says Twolefttoload is one of the most unique horses she's ever handled. 'She's a challenge,' said Bergen. 'But she's got personality. You earn her trust and she gives you everything.' That trust paid off Tuesday night in the biggest way possible, and brought a bit of redemption for a filly who now appears to have a bright future ahead of her. 'She's going to be a better four-year-old than a three-year-old,' said Nault. 'I think the best is still to come.' Nault, who is currently second in the trainer standings at the Downs with 16 wins, now trains the top Manitoba-bred three-year-olds in both the male and female divisions. Betterlucknexttime, a three-year-old gelding by Nonios, also owned by A2 Thoroughbreds and True North Thoroughbreds, recently won the $40,000 Frank Arnason Memorial Sire Stakes to move to the head of his class. Thursdays Keep up to date on sports with Mike McIntyre's weekly newsletter. There is no immediate stakes target for Twolefttoload. Nault and the ownership group of A2 Thoroughbreds and True North Thoroughbreds will likely look toward allowance company next. 'We've got some options,' said Nault. 'We'll let her tell us when she's ready again.' Purchased for $23,000 in the 2023 Manitoba CTHS Yearling Sale, Twolefttoload has already earned over $50,000 from a 2-3-1 record in 10 starts, and looks like a filly who's just starting to figure things out. 'She was like a baby moose last year,' said Ziprick. 'A big, tough filly who just needed time and a little distance. Now she's turning into something special.' 'Buy the ticket, take the ride.' — Hunter S. Thompson.
Hi Dubai
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Culture and Dubai Racing Club Partner to Celebrate Emirati Heritage at Dubai World Cup
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Racing Club (DRC) to promote Emirati heritage and strengthen cultural engagement at the Dubai World Cup. The partnership aims to infuse the globally celebrated sporting event with authentic cultural experiences that reflect the values and traditions of the UAE. The agreement, signed by Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Ali Abdulrahman Al Ali, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Racing Club, sets the foundation for joint initiatives that spotlight both tangible and intangible aspects of Emirati culture. The two organisations will collaborate on cultural programming, share expertise, and co-develop experiences that showcase the richness of the UAE's local identity to international audiences. 'This MoU aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and his ongoing commitment to preserving our national heritage while projecting it globally,' said Hala Badri. 'Through this partnership, we hope to create meaningful opportunities for local talent and strengthen the cultural and creative industries by providing a world-class platform to share their work.' Badri emphasized that the collaboration will play a vital role in supporting Dubai Culture's mission of safeguarding heritage for future generations. By incorporating creative content and traditional expressions into the Dubai World Cup experience, the initiative aims to enhance community pride and reinforce Dubai's global standing as a cultural and tourism hub. Ali Al Ali noted that the partnership reflects Dubai Racing Club's ambition to blend sport and culture in innovative ways. 'Working with Dubai Culture enhances the Dubai World Cup's identity as more than just a racing event,' he said. 'It becomes a celebration of our roots, traditions, and national values. As we look ahead to the 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup in 2026, this collaboration comes at the perfect moment to spotlight the UAE's enduring heritage on a global platform.' Since its inception in 1996, the Dubai World Cup has grown into one of the world's most prestigious horse racing events. This new cultural collaboration promises to elevate the spectator experience by integrating artistic and heritage elements that celebrate the spirit of the Emirates. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Mid East Info
24-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Culture and Dubai Racing Club Seal Strategic Partnership to Promote Emirati Heritage - Middle East Business News and Information
Agreement enhances Dubai World Cup's role as a platform for national traditions Dubai, United Arab Emirates –July 2025: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Dubai Culture has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Racing Club (DRC) to deepen cooperation in the fields of culture and local identity. Through this partnership, both organisations will develop innovative programming and experiences that highlight Emirati customs, enriching the Dubai World Cup with authentic engagement. This MoU underscores a shared commitment to championing the values and traditions of the UAE internationally. It also supports Dubai's broader strategy of fostering collaboration among local entities, aligning with the emirate's strategic objectives. The agreement was signed by Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Ali Abdulrahman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of Dubai Racing Club. It outlines a framework for joint action that includes sharing expertise, exchanging best practices, and co-developing initiatives to promote tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage. Hala Badri affirmed that the Memorandum of Understanding is in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, and his ongoing commitment to promoting the nation's cultural values and local heritage on the global stage. She emphasised that the MoU demonstrates His Highness's dedication to fostering greater coordination among local entities and institutions, helping to solidify Dubai's reputation as a forward-looking city. Speaking about the partnership with Dubai Racing Club, she added: 'This collaboration will help strengthen the cultural and creative industries in the emirate. We aim to create new opportunities for talent, encouraging them to showcase their work to international audiences and visitors to the Dubai World Cup. This fully supports the Authority's mission and sectoral priorities to safeguard both tangible and intangible heritage for future generations, through a series of distinctive initiatives and experiences.' Badri pointed out that the MoU will create fresh opportunities for talent to present their work on the world stage, while bolstering the cultural and creative industries. She added that the partnership with the DRC aligns with the Authority's commitments and sectoral priorities, which focus on safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage for future generations. Ali Al Ali, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Racing Club, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting that it reflects DRC's vision to blend culture and sport on a global level. 'Working with Dubai Culture marks a strategic step forward in enhancing the Dubai World Cup and the horse racing experience at Meydan Racecourse,' he said. 'By showcasing the UAE's rich heritage to the diverse audience that attends this prestigious event each year, we aim to focus on more than just the sport, celebrating national identity and honouring the deep-rooted traditions of the Emirates.' He said that since its inaugural running in 1996, and under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup has become one of the most distinguished horse racing events. 'It has evolved into a space where cultures converge, talent is celebrated, and the enduring spirit of equestrian heritage is showcased. This reinforces Dubai's standing as an international hub for cultural dialogue and sporting excellence. As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026, this partnership reaffirms our commitment to preserving the UAE's legacy and elevating its global presence through a platform that unites authenticity with innovation,' he added.
Dubai Eye
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Dubai Eye
Dubai World Cup celebrates 30 years of racing excellence
The Dubai Racing Club has announced that the 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup will take place on March 28, 2026, at Meydan Racecourse. The event marks a major milestone for what has become one of the world's most prestigious nights in horse racing. The upcoming 2025/26 Dubai Racing Carnival will feature 17 race meetings, kicking off on Friday, November 7, and building up to the grand finale on World Cup night. Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, called the Dubai World Cup "one of the world's great sporting and social spectacles" and said the 30th running will be a celebration of international racing excellence. The season will also spotlight four major feature days, including Festive Friday on December 19, Fashion Friday on January 23, and Emirates Super Saturday on February 28 — the key warm-up event ahead of World Cup night. Fans can expect a thrilling blend of elite racing and Dubai's signature hospitality as the countdown begins to a historic season at Meydan. Our fixtures are out! 🙌 The 2025-6 #DubaiCarnival gets underway on Friday, 7 November. — Dubai Racing Club (@RacingDubai) July 21, 2025
