In a move set to energise Dubai’s racing scene and inspire fresh global ambition, Meydan Racecourse will now play an even bigger part in the Road to the Kentucky Derby, offering horses in the Middle East a more defined route to Churchill Downs’ famous starting gate.
Dubai’s Gateway to Kentucky Dreams
For many trainers and owners, the dream of running in the Kentucky Derby begins not in Louisville but under the Meydan lights. With two additional qualifiers added to the Middle East Road to the Kentucky Derby series, that dream just came a little closer.
The G3 UAE 2000 Guineas and the Listed Road to the Kentucky Derby (formerly the Al Bastakiya) will now carry official qualifying points toward the 2026 Kentucky Derby, joining the established G2 UAE Derby on Dubai World Cup day. Together, they cement Meydan’s growing influence as an international launchpad for classic contenders.
“These additions mark a proud milestone for Dubai racing,” said Ali Ali Ali, CEO and Board Member of the Dubai Racing Club. “They highlight our commitment to nurturing world-class competition and strengthening our connection with global racing traditions. The Kentucky Derby is the sport’s ultimate stage — and Dubai is honoured to now stand even closer to it.”
New Points Structure and Bonus Incentive
The revamped European/Middle East Road to the Kentucky Derby will unfold through three key fixtures:
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G3 UAE 2000 Guineas – 1600m, January 23, 2026 – Points: 20-10-6-4-2
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Dubai Road to the Kentucky Derby (Listed) – 1900m, February 20, 2026 – Points: 20-10-6-4-2
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G2 UAE Derby – 1900m, March 28, 2026 – Points: 100-60-30-15-10
Adding extra excitement, the Dubai Racing Club announced a US$200,000 cumulative bonus for any horse that sweeps the UAE 2000 Guineas, the Dubai Road to the Kentucky Derby, and the UAE Derby. It’s an incentive that could make Meydan the stage for an unprecedented Triple Crown of its own.
A Global Partnership in Motion
Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated, applauded the partnership, saying: “The UAE Derby has always been pivotal in our Road to the Kentucky Derby. By expanding this link, we connect fans across continents — from Dubai’s grandstands to the Derby’s iconic twin spires.”
Indeed, while Japan’s Forever Young came agonisingly close in 2024, no Dubai-based runner has yet won the Kentucky Derby. The new alignment makes that elusive triumph feel within reach — and perhaps inevitable.
The first chapter begins with the UAE 2000 Guineas on Fashion Friday, 23 January 2026, alongside Group 1 fixtures such as the Al Maktoum Challenge and Jebel Hatta, ensuring a thrilling start to Dubai’s Carnival calendar.
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