USA's Magnitude emerges as 30th Dubai World Cup champion, claims $12 million prize

All eyes on Meydan tonight

Good afternoon and welcome to Khaleej Times' live coverage of the Dubai World Cup 2026 at Meydan Racecourse.

The $12 million Dubai World Cup, the highlight of the evening, is scheduled for 20:30 UAE time.

However, a top-class nine-race card leads up to the feature.

So, stay with us for live updates, results, and reactions throughout the day.

Two hours to Race 1

Less than two hours to go from the opening race here at Meydan, and the atmosphere is beginning to build. A full evening of world-class racing lies ahead.

Blue skies, warm sunshine

After a few days of rain, we're back to one of those beautiful Dubai afternoons — blue skies, warm sunshine. There is already a palpable buzz around the venue as the eyes of the racing world turn firmly towards Meydan.

From the pristine parade ring to the twin tracks, there's a sense that something special is about to unfold on this landmark occasion.

30th anniversary

This year's meeting carries added significance as the Dubai World Cup celebrates its 30th anniversary, a remarkable milestone for a race that has helped redefine the global horse racing landscape. Since its inaugural running in 1996, when the legendary Cigar lit up Nad Al Sheba, the race has grown into a $12 million showpiece and is widely regarded as horse racing's Olympics.

Tonight's nine-race card once again brings together elite horses from across the globe — America, Europe, Japan, and the Middle East — each vying for glory and a share of the $30.5 million prize pot.

This is where champions are crowned, stories are written, and history continues to unfold, and we’re here to bring you every moment of it. So don't go anywhere; stay with us for what promises to be an incredible seven-hour ride!

A look at tonight's prized trophy

Dubai Health team at Meydan

Glamorous arrivals

A splash of colour and style as spectators don designer hats for the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse on Saturday.

Photos: Shihab/Khaleej Times

A musical welcome

Visitors are greeted by a violinist in a glittering costume, hoisted on a pedestal, playing upbeat music, adding to the opulent vibe of the evening.

Watch the video here:

Going traditional at the races

Some guests embraced traditional Emirati attire, adding a touch of cultural elegance to the event.

Standing out in style

Guests put their most fashionable foot forward at the Dubai World Cup, showcasing a dazzling array of elegant ensembles, bold statement pieces and refined style, adding to the glamour of the night at Meydan Racecourse.

Take a look:

A closer look at tonight's trophy

Lady in red at the races

Dubai resident Joy Desmond arrived early at the Dubai World Cup, dressed in red. A horse lover and owner of Crystalline Equine, a wellness studio surrounded by horses, Joy said that she was excited to be at the event.

"Horses have always been my passion and ever since I arrived in Dubai two years ago, I have not missed the World Cup,” she told Khaleej Times correspondent Nasreen Abdulla. “Horses have a grounding energy and can help heal us.”

Today's race schedule

Dubai World Cup Race Programme 2026:

3:45 PM – Race 1: Dubai Kahayla Classic

4:20 PM – Race 2: Godolphin Mile

4:55 PM – Race 3: Dubai Gold Cup

5:30 PM – Race 4: UAE Derby

6:20 PM – Race 5: Al Quoz Sprint

6:55 PM – Race 6: Dubai Golden Shaheen

7:35 PM – Race 7: Dubai Turf

8:10 PM – Race 8: Longines Dubai Sheema Classic

8:45 PM – Race 9: Dubai World Cup

30 minutes to Race 1 (15:45 UAE time)

Anticipation is building as we edge closer to the first race of the day, the $1 million Dubai Kahayla Classic, one of the oldest and most prestigious contests on the card for Purebred Arabians, which kicks off Dubai World Cup day.

The atmosphere is beginning to come alive, with a steady buzz around Meydan as racegoers take their seats.

A full evening of world-class racing lies ahead.

Who is the favourite?

The favourite is French-bred Muraad, a five-time winner with proven course-and-distance form, who lines up under Brazilian ace Silvestre De Sousa. He takes on 14 rivals, including defending champion First Class, the mount of Conor Beasley.

Weather update

Dubai has emerged from an episode of rare storms and intense rainfall, and the weather is currently mostly sunny, with temperatures at 25°C, remaining warm and breezy with low rain chances.

Dressed to the nines

The Dubai World Cup isn’t just about the thundering hooves and nail-biting finishes — it’s also a showcase of glamour and elegance. This year, the ladies arrived in style, turning heads with stunning outfits and, of course, impeccable hats.

Khaleej Times’ Nasreen Abdulla highlighted the presence of former Style Stakes winner and celebrated milliner Evelyn McDermott, who arrived dressed to impress wearing one of her own creations. McDermott will serve as a judge in this year’s best-dressed competition.

Spectators don fancy hats

A splash of colour and style lit up Meydan Racecourse on Saturday as spectators donned fancy hats, creating a striking contrast against the white horse backdrop.

How a phone call built Dubai World Cup

Just ten minutes before the first race at Meydan Racecourse, and the excitement is palpable! But the Dubai World Cup is more than just today’s spectacle. Its story began quietly, as great stories often do.

One morning in 1993, Colonel Ali Khamis Al Jafleh received a telephone call that would alter not only his life but the trajectory of horse racing in the UAE. On the other end of the line was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Al Jafleh was being summoned to discuss something ‘big’. What followed would help lay the groundwork for an ambitious vision: to elevate Dubai onto the global stage of horse racing and create an event that would capture the attention of the sporting world.

Five minutes before Race 1 - Dubai Kahayla Classic

Minutes before the first race at Meydan Racecourse, the anticipation is electric.

Spectators are taking their seats, hats perfectly in place, and one lady is ready to ring the bell, signalling the start of a day steeped in speed, style, and history.

Five minutes to kick off!

The runners have left the Meydan Parade Ring and are heading to the start for the Dubai Kahayla Classic.

A strong field of 15 line up for this 2,000m dirt contest for Purebred Arabians.

Eight-time UAE Champion trainer Doug Watson is looking for back-to-back wins in the contest with First Class, a horse who has won three times from 2,000 metres to 2,200 metres.

First Class comes into the race with good form, having won the Group 1 Obaiyah Arabian on Dirt at Riyadh on his last start.

2 minutes to go!

With only a few minutes left before the start of the Dubai Kahayla Classic, the contestants are mounted and focused, eyes fixed ahead as they prepare for the thrilling challenge that awaits on the track.

How the race reaches 170 countries

The Dubai World Cup isn’t just a spectacle for those at Meydan — it has become a global phenomenon, reaching 170 countries!

Will history repeat itself?

Last year, First Class stormed to victory in the first race of the evening — the $1 million Group 1 Dubai Kahayla Classic, a contest for Purebred Arabians run over 2,000 metres on dirt.

As the crowd gathers this year, all eyes are on the starting gate: will history repeat itself?

Oman steals victory in Dubai Kahayla Classic

As the first race of the evening got underway, anticipation was high at Meydan Racecourse. Falaah surged late to edge out the favourite Muraad in a thrilling photo-finish. Omani jockey Al Moatasem Al Balushi produced a masterful ride, outshining UAE champion Silvestre de Sousa.

The $1 million Dubai Kahayla Classic, a 2,000-metre contest for Purebred Arabians sponsored by Zabeel Feed, delivered exactly the excitement fans had hoped for.

Result:

1. Falaah – Al Moatasem Al Balushi

2. Muraad – Silvestre de Sousa

3. Mubeed – Ray Dawson

Race 1 in action

As the contestants lined up and prepared for the first race, all eyes were on the starting gate.

With such a spectacular start, the Dubai World Cup promises an evening of high-stakes thrills both on and off the track.

Your ultimate guide to World Cup 2026

Haven’t been to the Dubai World Cup before? This event has never been just about what happens on the track. From high fashion to world-class dining and vibrant social energy, the day unfolds as a full-scale celebration.

Check out this your ultimate guide to Dubai World Cup 2026, from timings, tickets, prizes, and experiences, as reported by Khaleej Times' UAE Editor Sahim Salim.

'I was a little concerned'

3 minutes to Race 2!

The runners are making their way to the start for the Godolphin Mile, the first thoroughbred race of the evening, with a competitive 12-horse field assembled.

All eyes are on Commissioner King (USA), the favourite, trained by UAE champion Bhupat Seemar. The gelding has been in superb form, winning five races over 1m on the all-weather, including a commanding 4-length victory over this course and distance last month against The Camden Colt.

Seemar is chasing his first Godolphin Mile triumph in a race that debuted in 1994 and became part of the Dubai World Cup card in 1996 — making this a historic opportunity for the champion trainer.

Dubai World Cup 1997 storm

While the weather today is perfect for racing, the Dubai World Cup hasn’t always enjoyed such clear skies.

Back in March 1997, Nad Al Sheba Racecourse faced a rare and dramatic twist — sheets of rain poured down on what was meant to be a day of world-class horse racing, sending most of the 60,000 spectators scrambling for cover and threatening to wash out the biggest day in the UAE’s sporting calendar.

Banishing steals the show in $1m Group 1 Godolphin Mile

Banishing (USA), ridden by Silvestre de Sousa and trained by David Jacobson, swooped on the line to deny favourite Commissioner King, the mount of 12-time UAE champion jockey Tadhg O’Shea. Mendelssohn Bay (USA), ridden by Richard R. Mullen, finished strongly to claim third place.

Banishing has won nine races from six furlongs to one mile. His last outing saw him finish eighth of 13 in the Group 1 Saudi Cup on Dirt at Riyadh, where he was beaten 11 lengths by Japanese superstar Forever Young, making today’s thrilling victory a remarkable turnaround.

Results:

1. Banishing - Silvestre de Souza

2. Comissioner King - Tadhg O’Shea

3. Mendelsson Bay - Richard Mullen

Dubai World cup enters its 30th edition

As the Dubai World Cup enters its 30th edition, it stands not just as a pinnacle of international horse racing, but as a symbol of Dubai’s flair for combining sport, style, and spectacle.

What began as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s ambitious vision in 1993 has grown into the UAE’s most anticipated social and sporting event, attracting the world’s finest horses, top trainers, and a glittering array of fashion and global VIPs.

'It worked out perfectly'

Silvestre de Sousa is seen laughing and beaming with joy after his win.

Unsung heroes behind Dubai World Cup 2026

As the races unfold at Meydan, the spotlight usually belongs to the horses and jockeys. Yet beyond the limelight is another team — men and women whose work begins long before the starting gates open and continues long after the final race is run.

In this special report marking the Dubai World Cup’s 30th anniversary, Khaleej Times met some of the unsung heroes whose dedication brings one of the world’s greatest race nights to life.

2 minutes before Dubai Gold Cup!

The horses are lined up for the third race, and the excitement in the stands is palpable. Spectators everywhere are on their feet, sharing in the anticipation and energy as the next thrilling contest gets ready to begin.

Dubai World Cup fashion

For those who haven’t experienced the Dubai World Cup yet, don’t worry — here’s your guide to race-day fashion.

The Dubai World Cup is far more than just a race day. It has become one of the most iconic moments in Dubai’s social calendar, where sport, fashion, and culture come together in spectacular style.

Fairy Glen wins in $1 million Dubai Gold Cup

The $1 million Dubai Gold Cup, the longest race on the card at 3,200 metres, saw Fairy Glen, ridden by French ace Mickael Barzalona, deliver a standout performance to land the spoils. The progressive mare, representing the in-form Crisford yard, showed her class and stamina to prevail at the highest level.

The winner is owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE.

Caballo De Mar (IRE) ran another solid race to finish second under William Buick, continuing his consistent run of form, while Al Nayyir (GB), the seasoned campaigner, filled third after a typically honest effort.

Race 3 in action

KT photographer Shihab captured the action from Race 3, showing the horses lined up and ready to battle for victory. The anticipation is palpable as jockeys and steeds prepare to make their move on the track.

Race 3 results are in!

As the third race of the evening got underway at Meydan, all eyes were on the $1 million Dubai Gold Cup, the longest race on the card at 3,200 metres.

Result:

1. Fairy Glen – Mickael Barzalona

2. Caballo De Mar – William Buick

3. Al Nayyir – Rossa Ryan

Video: Fairy Glen's stunning victory

In case you missed the action, here’s a front-row look at Fairy Glen’s stunning victory in the $1 million Dubai Gold Cup, as shared by the Dubai Racing Club. Watch as the progressive mare, guided expertly by Mickael Barzalona, powers down the 3,200-metre stretch to claim a memorable win at Meydan.

Ed Crisford issues statement

Palpable excitement in the tracks

Crowds rose to their feet, unable to contain their excitement as they watched the race unfold.

Another fascinating spectacle unfolds

Meanwhile, away from the track, another fascinating spectacle unfolds. Participants of the Style Stakes take to the runway, while couples walk down the ramp for the Best Dressed Couples competition, as reported by Khaleej Times’ Nasreen Abdulla.

Race 4 UAE Derby results

As shared by the Dubai Racing Club, another UAE Derby winner heads to Japan. Wonder Dean took control in commanding fashion to land the UAE Derby, sponsored by Jumeirah, delivering yet another standout moment on a thrilling Saturday at Meydan.

Race 4 results are in!

1. Wonder Dean (JPN) Christian Demuro

2. Six Speed (JPN) Mickael Barzalona

3. Pyromancer (JPN) James Doyle

Japanese dominance continues

Japan’s Wonder Dean, ridden by Christian Demuro, delivered a stunning performance to claim victory in the $1million UAE Derby, a race that gives the winners a ticket to the Kentucky Derby.

Dubai-trained Spix Speend and American raider Pyromancer finished in this trial.

But the race once again showcased Japan’s remarkable dominance on the international stage.

This triumph marks an extraordinary milestone, a fifth consecutive win for Japan in this race, extending a streak that has firmly established the nation as a powerhouse in global horse racing. The legacy began with Crown Pride in 2022, followed by Derma Sotogake in 2023, Forever Young in 2024 and Admire Daytona in 2025.

With Wonder Dean adding his name to this elite list, it demonstrates that Japanese horses are not just here to make the numbers; they are setting the gold standard for the Classic generation

Spectators capture the moment

Spectators, draped in fashionable outfits and elegant hats, took out their phones to capture the moment.

How Dubai racing leaped into the future

The spotlight at Meydan Racecourse shines not only on the present, but on a remarkable journey through time.

The thunder of hooves that echoes today carries with it a rich legacy — one that began long before grandstands, global audiences, and million-dollar purses defined the sport in Dubai.

Back when modern racecourses and official rules were still a general idea, Emirati riders tested their skills and horses’ speed in informal contests along the Al Mamzar shoreline and across stretches of open desert. These friendly rivalries between fearless young men riding bareback captured the spirit of the Bedouin relationship with the horse. Those humble contests found a home in the city at the old Metropolitan track.

In those early days, the ‘racecourse’ was little more than a sandy oval carved from the desert. There were no elaborate facilities, no spectators and no luxury hospitality suites.

On race days, officials famously borrowed weighing scales from Dubai International Airport to ensure jockeys carried the correct weight, a small but telling detail that illustrates how modest the beginnings truly were.

Sheikh Mohammed spotted at Meydan

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was spotted at Meydan Racecourse, witnessing his vision come alive as a thrilling day of racing unfolded.

Race 5 Al Quoz Sprint

Next up is the $1 million Al Quoz Sprint, a lightning-fast 1,200 meters on turf and the first of two blink-and-you’ll-miss-it sprints in the middle of the nine-race extravaganza. With speed and timing at a premium, this race often rewards the bold but also punishes the impatient, making positioning and gate speed absolutely crucial.

Fans can expect a furious pace from the start, where fractions of a second can make the difference between glory and disappointment.

The international favourite is Lazzat, who impressed in Saudi Arabia last month and looks primed to translate that form onto Dubai turf. Reef Runner and Lugal loom as the chief dangers, while Rayevka and a clutch of others, including Cover Up, Khaadem, Great Wish, and Native Approach, could also play a role if they find the right split.

With few standout sprinters in this line-up, Lazzat appears the horse to beat, but in a race this fast and furious, even outsiders like Marbaan or Monteille could snatch a surprise on the day.

Sheikh Mohammed, Sheikh Hamdan at Meydan

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum graced the track with their presence and as they witnessed Dubai’s world-class racing vision come alive.

Native Approach streaks home for Bin Harmash

Race five of the Dubai World Cup card, the $1 million Al Quoz Sprint over 1,200 meters on turf, produced another thrilling finish as the first of the Group 1 contests got underway.

Native Approach, ridden by Conor Beasley, came with a late surge to take the win, holding off Japanese speedball Lugal, guided by Katsuma Sameshima, and Lazzar, piloted by James Doyle, in a close three-way battle down the stretch.

Trained by Ahmed bin Harmash, Native Approach has shown his versatility with three wins from six furlongs to a mile on both good ground and the all-weather. He had already demonstrated his class at this course and distance last month, defeating Run Boy Run by one and a quarter lengths, and today he confirmed that form with another impressive performance, marking himself as a sprinter who still has a lot of fire in his belly

Video: Native Approach in action

Check out the video below to witness Native Approach in action, as he powers down the stretch to claim victory in the $1 million Al Quoz Sprint.

Al Quoz Sprint results

1. Native Approach - Conor Beasley

2. Lugal - Katsuma Sameshima

3. Lazzar - James Doyle

'It’s a great team to be part of'

Ahmad bin Harmash issues statement

Conor Beasley beams for the camera

Conor Beasley beams for the camera, his smile capturing the joy of victory after guiding Native Approach to a thrilling win.

Where speed, stamina, and wealth meet

With record-breaking purses, international stars, and legendary bloodlines in the mix, the event is where prestige and fortune collide.

As the Dubai World Cup enters it 30th edition, it marks the culmination of a remarkable journey that traces back decades to Dubai’s sandy stretches when horse-riding was little more than a shared passion among Emiratis.

At the forefront of this elite international invasion are Japanese owners and breeders, whose thoroughbreds have dominated Dubai, Saudi Arabia, America and other global stages over the past decade. Japan’s breeding industry has evolved into a powerhouse, blending world-class bloodlines for both speed and stamina.

Dark Saffron wins Dubai Golden Shaheen

Trainer Ahmed bin Harmash and stable jockey Conor Beasley completed a clean sweep of the sprint races on the Dubai World Cup card, adding the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen to his earlier win in the Al Quoz Sprint.

Dark Saffron, a horse who had almost been forgotten, rediscovered his best form to take an impressive victory under a confident ride from stable Beasley. Strongly fancied Bentornato, the Grade 1 Cygames Breeders’ Cup Sprint hero ridden by Jose L. Ortiz, finished second, with Cats By Five and Daniel Tudhope in third.

Dark Saffron became only the third horse to win the 1,200-meter dirt sprint twice, joining Caller One (2001, 2002) and Mind Your Biscuits (2017, 2018).

From near obscurity during the Dubai Racing Carnival to record-making champion, his performance was a masterclass in timing, speed, and determination, further cementing Ahmed bin Harmash’s dominance in the sprint division this year.

Dubai Golden Shaheen results are in!

$2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen 1200m Dirt (G1) result

1. Dark Saffron - Conor Beasley

2. Bentornato - José L Ortiz

3. Cats By Five - Daniel Tudhope

Winning jockey Conor Beasley on Dark Saffron

Indian expat Keerthi Poornima turns heads at Dubai World Cup

Indian expat Keerthi Poornima turned heads at the Dubai World Cup with an elaborate, feathered hat she crafted herself. Khaleej Times' Nasreen Abdulla captured the expat pairing it with a sari to compete in the traditional category of the Style Stakes, bringing along her one-year-old daughter Harsidhii and her mother Amsaveni.

7 minutes before the Dubai Turf!

We’re heading into the business end of the Dubai World Cup meeting with just three races remaining, including two key supporting events on turf: the $5 million Dubai Turf over 1,800 metres and the $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic over 2,400 metres.

Both races act as the perfect aperitif to tonight’s $12 million showpiece, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in spectacular style.

Traditional Emirati arts

From the art of Talli to the weaving technique Al Khoos, visitors to the Dubai World Cup were introduced to a wide variety of traditional Emirati arts.

Now in its 30th year, the iconic race put on a treat for its guests including activities like pottery and leather tanning and serving up traditional Emirati dishes like luqaimat and regag.

'We love the ambiance of the Dubai World Cup'

Khaleej Times' Nasreen Abdulla reported that Russian mother and daughter duo Eliana and Christina spent over a month putting together their outfits. “

We shopped online and started planning what we wanted to wear,” said Eliana. “It was a long process that we put a lot of thought into. Christina was so excited that she could barely sleep last night. We love the ambiance of the Dubai World Cup and love attending it.”

Ombudsman claims Dubai Turf victory

As shared in a video by the Dubai Racing Club, Ombudsman secured a memorable win in the $5 million Dubai Turf over 1,800 metres.

Ombudsman Triumphs in Dubai Turf for Godolphin

Ombudsman provided the first highlight of the evening for Dubai’s Godolphin stable, storming home in the $5 million Dubai Turf over 1,800 metres. Ridden by William Buick, the crowd erupted and gave him a raucous welcome to the winner’s circle, celebrating a thrilling first victory on the card.

Qudwah, guided by Cristian Demuro, finished second, while Andreas Vesalius and Connor Beasley claimed third.

A proven performer, Ombudsman has now won six races from 1600-2000 metres on ground ranging from good to firm to soft. His last outing saw him finish second to French superstar Calandagan in the Group 1 Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot over a mile and a quarter.

With this win under his belt, Royal Ascot now beckons, where Ombudsman is expected to take on the Prince of Wales’ Stakes, adding another exciting chapter to his impressive career.

$5million Dubai Turf results

1800m Turf results:

1. Ombudsman - William buick

2. Qudwah - Cristian Demuro

3. Andreas - Vesalius Connor Beasley

Young fans get in on the fun

The excitement at the Dubai World Cup isn’t just for adults — young fans are getting in on the fun, too.

Three-year-old Evania patiently stood in line for 15 minutes to get her face painted to match her pretty dress at her very first World Cup, according to Khaleej Times' Nasreen Abdulla.

She came with her parents, Jishu and Neethu, who shared, "she has been very excited since we came. “We spent some time on the track side and watched the horse races. Then we came to the face painting area. I am glad that her first DWC is such an unforgettable experience for her.”

'Congratulations, Dubai!'

William Buick, who guided Ombudsman to victory, shared his excitement after the race.

“Congratulations, Dubai! We have some beautiful racing here, and it’s a real pleasure to be part of it. He [Ombudsman] showed exactly what he can do. It was a very competitive field, and I’m very pleased with him; everything happened just as we hoped. I think he’s going to have a very exciting year ahead," Buick said.

Meydan’s penultimate Turf thriller

Next up is the Longines Dubai Sheema Classic (Group 1) on turf, the penultimate race of what has been a fantastic evening at Meydan Racecourse.

All eyes will be on Calandagan, the five-year-old from France and reigning Longines World’s Best Racehorse with a rating of 130. After a remarkable 2025 campaign that included four Group 1 wins — the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the Champion Stakes, and the Japan Cup — he arrives in Dubai ready to show his class once more. Although beaten in this race last year, he could prove too strong for his rivals, with Ethical Diamond expected to provide the biggest challenge.

The field also includes two runners from Charlie Appleby’s yard: Royal Power, with William Buick aboard, and By The Book, partnered with Richard Mullen. Both have shown consistent form and add even more intrigue to an already impressive line-up.

Calandagan wins Longines Dubai Sheema Classic

Watch the video below:

$6 million Dubai Sheema Classic

The $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic over 2,400 metres produced an exciting staying race on a fantastic evening at Meydan Racecourse.

Calandagan, the five-year-old from France and reigning Longines World’s Best Racehorse, showed his class once again, storming to a well-deserved victory. West Wind Blows set the pace for most of the race, but Calandagan finished strongly to take the win, with Giavellotto coming in third.

After a brilliant 2025 season that included four Group 1 wins, the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the Champion Stakes, and the Japan Cup, the Aga Khan Studs’ gelding confirmed he is still at the top of his game.

Last year’s defeat in this race did little to slow him down, and today he notched his ninth career win from 16 starts, proving once more why he is among the world’s elite.

Race results $6 Million Dubai Sheema Classic

2,400m Turf results:

1. Calandagan - Mickael Barzalona

2. West Wind Blows - Rossa Ryan

3. Giavellotto-James Doyle

Horses poise ready for the challenge

At the start of the Longines Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan Racecourse on Saturday, the horses lined up, poised and ready for the challenge ahead.

Sponsored by Azizi Developments, this 2,410-metre turf spectacle promises top-class racing and thrilling finishes.

We're just minutes to racing glory!

The race we’ve all been waiting for is just minutes away — the 30th Dubai World Cup, with a purse of $12 million at stake over 2,000 metres on dirt.

At Meydan Racecourse, the horses are parading in the ring under the bright lights. All eyes are on Japanese superstar Forever Young, chasing not just victory but a place as the highest-earning horse in history.

With a world-class field of nine runners set to line up, the tension is electric. The stage is set, the crowd is on their toes and soon, racing history will be written.

Teacher wins Best Dressed woman at the Style Stakes

Teacher Sheila Waweru beat off tough competition to win the coveted title of Best Dressed woman at the Style Stakes feature pairing purple with gold. When shefirst decided she was attending the Dubai World Cup a few weeks ago, she picked out a hat from a local milliner.

Her children then put together an outfit for her, tying it all together with a tie she borrowed from her husband. “I didn’t buy a single new item of clothing for this competition,” she said, adding that this was the first time she participated in the contest.

First time visitor wins Best Hat competition

Sometimes luck — and style — are on your side, even if it’s your very first time at an event.

Becky Page, attending the Dubai World Cup for the first time, emerged as the winner of the Best Hat competition at the Style Stakes. Sporting a vibrant Vivienne Sheriff creation, she said she fell in love with the colors and spent a week putting her outfit together.

Magnitude wins 30th Dubai World Cup

Magnitude and jockey Jose Ortiz made all the running to deny red-hot favourite Forever Young, proving once again the strength of American-trained runners in the Dubai World Cup.

The 4-year-old son of Not This Time put in a commanding performance, controlling the race from start to finish.

Trained by Steven Asmussen, this marks his second Dubai World Cup win after Curlin’s triumph in 2008.

Meydaan finished third.

Magnitude adds another Group 1 to his record following a recent Razorback Handicap victory at Oaklawn Park.

In a race the world watched, Forever Young’s bid for history came up short, but Magnitude’s triumph will be long remembered.

Dubai World Cup 2026 results are in!

The 30th Dubai World Cup served up another electrifying showdown at Meydan Racecourse, showcasing the world’s finest Thoroughbreds on dirt.

Dubai World Cup 2026 Results – Sponsored by Emirates Airline (Group 1, Dirt, 2,000m):

1. Magnitude (USA) Jose Ortiz (Trainer: Steven Asmussen)

2. Forever Young (JPN) Ryusei Sakai (Yoshito Yahagi)

3. Meydaan (IRE) William Buick (Simon & Ed Crisford)

4. mperial Emperor (IRE) Tadhg O'Shea (Bhupat Seemar)

5. Hit Show (USA) Florent Geroux (Brad Cox)

6. Tumbarumba (USA) James Doyle (Hamad Al Jehani)

7. Walk of Stars (GB) Mickael Barzalona (Bhupat Seemar)

8. Heart of Honor (GB) Saffie Osborne (Jamie Osborne)

9. Tap Leader (USA) Patrick Dobbs (Doug Watson)

Jose Ortiz sheds tears of joy

In a touching moment captured in a video shared by Dubai Racing Club, Jose Ortiz was seen crying tears of joy while still atop Magnitude after their Dubai World Cup victory.

Moments later, he broke into a beaming smile, a perfect reflection of triumph, relief, and sheer elation on the biggest night in horse racing.

Watch the video below:

Jose Ortiz proudly holds trophy

After the Dubai World Cup triumph, Jose Ortiz was all smiles as he proudly held up the trophy, celebrating a remarkable victory by Magnitude.

His beaming expression captured the joy and achievement of winning one of horse racing’s most prestigious events.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulates US on winning Dubai World Cup

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum celebrated the 30th Dubai World Cup, calling it a gathering of the world’s finest horses and top owners at one of the globe’s most prestigious races. He highlighted the UAE’s achievement in organising and hosting such a world-class event.

US jockey Jose Ortiz reacts after Magnitude wins

While Forever Young was a formidable nemesis, Magnitude had the quiet confidence — and the talent — to take on the challenge and triumph at the Dubai World Cup.

Watch the video below:

After Magnitude thunders across the finish line

As Magnitude thundered across the finish line, US jockey Jose Ortiz was immediately surrounded by the crowd, their excitement echoing through Meydan Racecourse.

Beaming from ear to ear, Ortiz’s elation was impossible to miss — a perfect reflection of the thrill and joy of winning the Dubai World Cup.

Swipe right to see the rest of the images:

A celebration of Sheikh Mohammed’s vision

As the final race unfolded and a new champion was crowned at Meydan, the excitement and global applause made one thing clear: the Dubai World Cup has become much more than a race — it is now the “home team” of international horse racing. But how did this extraordinary event come to be?

To truly understand Dubai World Cup 2026 and its place on the world stage, we must go back to the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — a leader whose passion for the sport sparked a journey that transformed Dubai into a global racing powerhouse.

His first visit to a race meeting in the United Kingdom in May 1967, watching Royal Palace win the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket alongside his brother Sheikh Hamdan, left an indelible mark. A decade later, his filly Hatta brought him his first victory at Brighton Racecourse and soon after claimed the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood, signaling the start of his serious commitment to international racing.

Race 9 in action

The excitement is electric as the main race started at Meydan. The thunder of hooves sends clouds of dust flying, a reminder of the raw power and speed on display.

Every stride drives the horses forward, yet their focus is unshaken — they don’t let a speck of dust slow them down in the heat of competition.

Photos: Dubai Ruler, Sheikh Hamdan at World Cup 2026

The 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup at the iconic Meydan Racecourse saw a distinguished presence as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, accompanied by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, attended the festivities.

The Dubai Media Office shared striking photos capturing the leaders’ presence:

The unsung heroes of Dubai World Cup 2026

Of course, the Dubai World Cup wouldn’t be possible without the heroes behind the scenes. Khaleej Times’ Shihab captured a final group photo of the officials and volunteers, all beaming with pride after a long day. Long after the races have ended and Meydan Racecourse lies empty, they are still there, quietly ensuring everything is wrapped up and in order.

They might be tired, but there’s a shared sense of accomplishment—knowing they helped ensure the event ran smoothly, safely, and flawlessly, making this world-class spectacle a reality for everyone at Meydan.

That's a wrap!

From Magnitude’s commanding win denying favourite Forever Young, to Calandagan’s stellar win as the reigning Longines World’s Best Racehorse, and Fairy Glen’s endurance in the $1 million Dubai Gold Cup, the night at Meydan was nothing short of spectacular.

Beyond the racetrack, the fashion, flair, and cultural vibrancy of the Style Stakes added another layer of excitement to the evening.

Thank you for following Khaleej Times’ live coverage. As the 30th Dubai World Cup comes to a close, the excitement, pride, and unforgettable moments will linger — and we’ll be back in 2027 to bring you the 31st edition of this world-class spectacle.