The anticipation for the Dubai World Cup 2025 continues to build as contenders from across the globe complete their final preparations at Meydan. With a staggering $12 million prize purse, the Group 1 Dubai World Cup (sponsored by Emirates Airline) remains the headline event, drawing elite competitors and equine superstars.
Among the most closely watched horses on Wednesday were Ushba Tesoro and Wilson Tesoro, both trained by Noboru Takagi. Having previously tasted success on this prestigious stage, Yuga Kawada reunited with Wilson Tesoro, exuding confidence after their five-furlong breeze. Meanwhile, Akira Sugawara praised Ushba Tesoro’s conditioning, indicating the horse had fully recovered from recent exertions. Takagi himself expressed satisfaction with their progress, hinting at a strong showing on Saturday.
The $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic (sponsored by Longines) is shaping up as a fiercely contested affair. Danon Decile, a standout performer from Japan, has been the center of attention, with trainer Shogo Yasuda emphasizing that his horse’s performance, rather than the competition, is the primary focus. Yasuda remains optimistic that Danon Decile has yet to showcase his peak ability, with a potential European campaign on the horizon if he impresses at Meydan. Other contenders, including Cervinia and Durezza, looked sharp in their breezes, with their trainers expressing satisfaction over their form.
In the $5 million Dubai Turf (sponsored by DP World), Japanese contender Brede Weg was seen stretching out on the Meydan turf under the watchful eye of Christophe Lemaire, while Holloway Boy, trained by Karl Burke, completed his final preparations after an already impressive carnival in Dubai. Having secured notable finishes in the Zabeel Mile and Singspiel Stakes, Holloway Boy is expected to be a key player in this prestigious event.
The $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen (sponsored by Nakheel) will see local trainer Doug Watson pin his hopes on Rafid, a colt whose pedigree hints at a strong performance. Rafid’s dam, Rayya, was a formidable competitor on this track, and Watson remains hopeful her son can carry forward the legacy. Meanwhile, Japanese sprinter Kurojishi Joe impressed during his final breeze, showing readiness for the high-stakes sprint.
The Al Quoz Sprint (sponsored by Azizi Developments), offering a $1.5 million prize, will feature the ever-consistent Believing, whose seamless transition to Dubai has encouraged trainer George Boughey. A strong contender in numerous Group 1 races, Believing will face a deep field, including Hong Kong’s Howdeepisyourlove, whose trainer John Size remains confident in his ability to finish strongly. Local hopes rest on Marbaan, who has enjoyed a stellar campaign under Michael Costa.
The UAE Derby (sponsored by Jumeirah) sees another Doug Watson trainee, Rafid, looking to etch his name in history, following in the footsteps of his dam, Rayya. His recent performance in the Al Wasl Classic demonstrated his growing potential, and Watson is optimistic about his chances. Meanwhile, Japan’s Peptide Nile has also been shaping up well for this high-stakes event.
The Dubai Gold Cup (sponsored by Al Tayer Motors), with a $1 million purse, sees Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien targeting a third consecutive victory. His runner, Continuous, has traveled extensively and put in a strong showing in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Turf Handicap, reinforcing his credentials as a leading stayer. The five-year-old completed a smooth trackwork session under the watchful eye of O’Brien’s trusted team.
The Godolphin Mile (sponsored by EMAAR) is expected to be a speed-dominated affair, with Sword Point, trained by Frankie Lor, set to be a pace-setter from an inside draw. Having demonstrated his ability on Hong Kong dirt tracks, Lor remains confident in his colt’s ability to dictate the early stages of the race. Meanwhile, Sadaaty, another contender from the Michael Costa yard, has been in strong form and completed his final work at Jebel Ali, giving the team confidence ahead of Saturday’s race.
The Dubai Kahayla Classic (sponsored by One Zabeel Feed) brings the best Purebred Arabian talent to the spotlight, with First Classs aiming to reclaim his crown. Trainer Doug Watson acknowledges the challenge ahead, given the wide draw, but remains confident that his charge is in better shape than last year. Despite stiff competition, Watson believes First Classs can make a strong impact on race night.
With just days to go until the Dubai World Cup 2025, excitement continues to mount. From seasoned champions to rising stars, the lineup promises thrilling action across every division. Stay tuned for comprehensive race-day coverage and expert analysis of this spectacular night of horse racing.
