Mohammed Bin Rashid Highlights UAE's Global Role At 29th Dubai World Cup
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the 29th Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse. This event is a significant fixture in the global horse racing calendar. Joining him were H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
The Dubai World Cup has grown since its inception in 1996 at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse. It was part of Sheikh Mohammed's vision to make Dubai a hub for international sports. The event now attracts top-ranked horses from around the world, showcasing Dubai's prominence in horse racing.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the enduring global interest in the Dubai World Cup as a testament to the UAE’s distinguished standing across various sectors, including sports. He emphasised that the nation has become a global destination for horse racing due to its world-class infrastructure and strong international partnerships.
"We take great pride in the Dubai World Cup’s unique status among the world’s premier horse racing events," stated Sheikh Mohammed. He noted that it serves as a reminder of sport's power to unite people and nations, with horse racing being a proud part of UAE heritage.
The 29th edition featured an impressive lineup of 102 horses from 13 countries competing across nine races for a total prize pool of US$30.5 million. The main Group1 race saw Hit Show, ridden by Florent Geroux and trained by Brad Cox, claim victory on the 2000-metre dirt track sponsored by Emirates Airline.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum presented the trophy to Hit Show’s owner, Wathnan Racing. The race attracted elite horses and prominent figures in horse racing, reinforcing Dubai's role in this prestigious sport.
Distinguished Attendees
The event was graced by several notable figures including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Also present were Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club, along with dignitaries, leading horse owners, breeders, and enthusiasts from around the globe.
Acknowledging Organisational Excellence
Sheikh Mohammed expressed gratitude towards guests attending this year's event while acknowledging the organising team's efforts in ensuring its success. He praised their role in supporting Dubai’s growing influence within the global horse racing community.
The event's stature on the international sporting calendar continues to grow each year due to these dedicated efforts.
The enduring appeal of the Dubai World Cup highlights its significance as a cultural convergence point where diverse cultures meet through sport. This aligns with UAE’s broader vision for fostering unity through shared experiences like horse racing events held annually at Meydan Racecourse.
With inputs from WAM
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