Hit Show Triumphs in the $12 Million Dubai World Cup
American colt delivers a stunning performance to claim victory at Meydan Racecourse
Hit Show, a colt representing the United States, secured a dramatic victory in the Dubai World Cup, which featured a prize purse of $12 million, taking place at Meydan Racecourse on April 5, 2025. Ridden by French jockey Florent Geroux and trained by Brad H. Cox, Hit Show surged ahead in the final stretch, crossing the finish line a length and three-quarters ahead of fellow American horse Mixto.
This win represents a significant achievement in the annals of the Dubai World Cup, enhancing the reputation of American thoroughbreds in international racing events.
The evening drew attention not only for its thrilling races but also for the prominent presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who has been a longstanding supporter of equestrian sports in the region.
Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the winners via social media, highlighting the participation of top-class horses and riders from around the world, as well as the attendance of approximately 65,000 spectators.
Japan's competitors made a notable impact, with Ante-post favorite Forever Young finishing in third place after a grueling victory in the recent Saudi Cup, merely weeks prior.
Local contender Walk of Stars, trained by defending champion Bhupat Seemar, finished commendably in fourth position.
The race was characterized by Hit Show's ability to overcome a slow start, a tactical decision that ultimately proved pivotal.
Geroux, reflecting on the race, expressed surprise at the outcome, stating he had initially aimed for a position within the top four but was thrilled by the horse's performance.
The partnership of Cox and Geroux, which has garnered success in North America, reached a remarkable new milestone with this victory.
In addition to the Dubai World Cup, the evening featured various other races, including First Class winning the Dubai Kahayla Classic for Arabian horses and Dubai Future claiming the Dubai Gold Cup.
The event was broadcast internationally, reaching viewers in over 170 countries, further solidifying the Dubai World Cup’s status as one of the premier sporting events globally.
American horses have consistently dominated the Dubai World Cup, with this year's victory marking the 14th win for U.S. competitors since the race's inception in 1996. Hit Show is part of the Wathnan Racing group, which is known for enhancing Qatar's presence in global equestrian sports and has achieved notable success in major racing events in recent years.