The Dubai World Cup night on April 5 will witness an inspiring tale of resilience as QUINAULT aims for his first Group 1 victory in the Al Quoz Sprint (sponsored by Azizi Developments). This remarkable five-year-old, once overlooked and sold for just 25,000gns, is now on the cusp of international glory under the guidance of trainer Stuart Williams.
Originally part of Godolphin’s stable, QUINAULT’s sole run for Charlie Appleby ended in disappointment, finishing last in Dubai. However, his fortunes took a dramatic turn when TJE Racing acquired him at the Tattersalls Autumn Sale in 2022 and sent him to Williams’ yard in Newmarket. What followed was a transformation no one could have predicted.
Starting from a modest rating of 59, QUINAULT embarked on an extraordinary winning streak as a three-year-old. He quickly ascended through the ranks, securing seven victories, including a triumph over subsequent July Cup winner Mill Stream. His consistency continued last season with a hat-trick of Listed wins at Chester, Newmarket, and York, proving he was no fluke.
Internationally, QUINAULT showcased his adaptability with commendable third-place finishes in the Group 3 Prix de Seine-et-Oise on heavy ground at Chantilly and in the Dukhan Sprint in Qatar on a firmer surface. His strong run in Qatar caught the attention of Dubai officials, leading to a last-minute invitation to one of the world’s most prestigious race days.
Williams, making his Dubai debut as a trainer, is eager for the challenge. “It’s very exciting,” he said. “He ran well in Qatar, just caught a bit wide, and we received an invitation last week. This will be my first runner in Dubai, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it. On his best form, he can be competitive.”
Despite his extensive race record of 22 starts, QUINAULT is still maturing. His German bloodline suggests late development, and as a son of Oasis Dream, he could improve further with age. Williams remains optimistic about the gelding’s future, including a potential step up to seven furlongs later this year, with the new Group 1 City of York Stakes in August as a target.
While QUINAULT faces stiff competition, particularly from the formidable Japanese contingent, Williams believes his runner belongs in this field. “We’ve raced against Regional before, Audience is trying a different trip, and Believing was competitive in all the top sprints last year. We’re not far behind them,” he noted. With two wins at York, a track that bears similarities to Meydan’s straight course, QUINAULT appears well-suited to the conditions.
Marco Ghiani, who boasts a strong partnership with QUINAULT, having secured four wins and three third-place finishes aboard him, will take the reins once again. The small but capable Williams stable is ready for its biggest international test yet.
“It’s a massive occasion for us,” Williams added. “We haven’t been on this kind of stage before, so it’s a new experience. QUINAULT is an absolute dude—he’s the sweetest horse and a yard favorite. We’re looking forward to seeing how he performs on the night.”
