Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Attends the 29th Dubai World Cup, Highlighting Its Global Significance
The event brings together elite horses and riders, reinforcing Dubai's status as a leading hub for horse racing.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup at the Meydan racetrack.
Accompanying him were Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance.
During the event, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the global interest in the Dubai World Cup since its inception in 1996, reflecting the UAE's prominent standing in various sectors, including sports.
He noted that the UAE has become a global center for horse racing, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, professional organization, and international partnerships involving top owners, trainers, and jockeys from around the world.
Sheikh Mohammed remarked on the unique status of the Dubai World Cup among international horse races, citing its financial significance, high level of competition, and substantial media attention.
He stated that the event has evolved into a global platform that unites cultures while showcasing excellence and professional organization, embodying Dubai's role as a city of the future that welcomes the world.
He conveyed that the underlying message of the event is that sports bring people together, emphasizing the importance of equestrianism as a vital part of the UAE's national identity and a bridge connecting its rich heritage with its promising future.
The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan, awarded the title of the Dubai World Cup to the horse "Hot Shoe," ridden by jockey Florent Geroux and trained by Brad Cox.
The horse won the main race held at Meydan, sponsored by Emirates Airline, over a distance of 2,000 meters.
A total of 11 horses competed, with the race offering a prize pool of $12 million.
Also present at the Dubai World Cup evening were Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Additionally, Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Racing Club, along with various dignitaries, horse owners, breeders, and racing enthusiasts from around the globe attended the event.
The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup featured some of the world's best and strongest horses, returning from top owners, breeders, and trainers, with participation from renowned jockeys.
A total of 102 horses from 13 countries competed in nine races, with a total prize money of $30.5 million, of which $12 million was designated for the main race, the Dubai World Cup.
The Dubai World Cup was first launched in 1996, with its inaugural event held at Nad Al Sheba racetrack, driven by Sheikh Mohammed's vision to establish Dubai as a destination for global sports, especially in horse racing.