Dubai World Cup 2025: A Historic Victory For Hit Show And Over 1 Billion Global Viewers

The 29th Dubai World Cup concluded at Meydan Racecourse, showcasing thrilling horse racing. A total of 102 horses from 13 countries competed in nine races, with a prize pool of $30.5 million. The main event saw "Hit Show" from Wathnan Racing (Qatar), ridden by Florent Geroux, win the $12 million top prize, marking a historic victory.

Jockey Florent Geroux expressed his excitement after winning with "Hit Show," saying, "I always ride Hit Show the same way I did last night—and he’s always given me a great feeling. Everything unfolded in the best-case scenario I had envisioned. I had my eye on the rival horse, Forever Young, throughout the race."

Broadcasted to over 1 billion viewers in 170 countries via TV and digital platforms, the event highlighted Meydan's global appeal as a hub for purebred and Arabian horse racing. The venue blends tradition with modernity, attracting a diverse audience worldwide.

Meydan Racecourse continues to be a premier racing venue since its opening in 2010. Its state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities uphold its reputation as one of the world's top racing locations.

Since its inception in 1996 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup has grown in prestige. Several races have earned spots among the Top 100 global horse races, reflecting its elite status and rich heritage.

The 2025 edition reaffirmed the Dubai World Cup's position as a crown jewel in international racing. It underlined the UAE's role as a global equestrian industry leader and its prowess in hosting world-class sporting events.

Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi praised the event's success and longevity. He noted it reflects Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision of making the UAE a global horse racing hub. Al Shehhi stated that it remains a benchmark with its world-class organisation and massive spectator turnout.

He also commended Meydan Racecourse for welcoming people globally with its modern facilities and skilled teams. "It’s a scene that mirrors the UAE’s global standing and embodies the nation’s humanitarian message—one of tolerance, harmony, love, and mutual respect," he said.

Al Shehhi congratulated Qatar's Wathnan Racing for "Hit Show's" victory. He also praised UAE's "Dubai Future," trained by Saeed bin Suroor, for winning the Dubai Gold Cup title. Additionally, Emirati horse 'Dark Saffron' won the Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen race for Thoroughbreds.

Cristian Demuro reflected on his emotional win with Japan's 'Soul Rush’ in Dubai Turf: "Last year, I was beaten by a nose (on Namur, second to Facteur Cheval). This year, I won by a nose. The luck was with me today."

Abdulaziz Al Maraziq highlighted Meydan Racecourse's role as a focal point of global attention due to elite international horses competing there. He noted intense competition marked this year's races with surprising outcomes defying expectations.

Commenting on "Dubai Future," owned by Godolphin and trained by Saeed bin Suroor despite being nine years old, Al Maraziq said some horses peak later due to exceptional training skills.

The Dubai World Cup remains an iconic event blending sport with cultural richness at Meydan Racecourse. It continues to attract top-tier participants worldwide while showcasing UAE’s leadership in equestrian sports.

With inputs from WAM