Probable fields are set for Dubai World Cup card

Horses from 13 countries, including 35 individual Group or Grade 1 winners, are set to contest the 29th Dubai World Cup meeting, held at Meydan Racecourse on April 5.

Dubai Racing Club announced likely fields for all nine races, which combined are worth $30.5 million in prize money. The Group 1, $12 million Dubai World Cup features a showdown between 2023 winner Ushba Tesoro and Forever Young, winner of the 2024 UAE Derby (G2) and the Saudi Cup (G1).

The $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic will see Rebel’s Romance aim to become the first horse to win this race twice. He faces a likely six other Grade-Group 1 winners, including Japan’s Danon Decile, Durezza and Cervinia.

Six Grade-Group 1 winners could clash in the $5 million Dubai Turf (G1), including 10-time Grade-Group 1 winner Romantic Warrior who will face defending champion Facteur Cheval and Godolphin’s Nations Pride.

The card’s two sprints also look hugely exciting, with South African-turned U.S. star Isivunguvungu among the field for the Al Quoz Sprint (G1), as are British Group 1 winners Regional and Audience. Defending champion Tuz and Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner Straight No Chaser will lock horns in the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1).

The card also featured three Group 2s, the Godolphin Mile, which has attracted U.S. Grade 1 winner Raging Torrent, the Dubai Gold Cup and the UAE Derby, which offers 100-50-25-15-10 qualifying points on the Europe-Middle East path to Kentucky Derby 2025.

“The strength and depth of horses aiming for the Dubai World Cup meeting this year is superb,” said Ali Al Ali, CEO and board member of Dubai Racing Club. “We are delighted to have horses from 13 racing jurisdictions represented, including several returning champions.”