From John Gosden’s patient pursuit of Turf glory to Bentornato’s sprinting double bid, connections reveal their strategies as Dubai’s richest racing spectacle prepares to unfold.
DUBAI — With the glittering $12 million Dubai World Cup just days away, trainers from across the globe gathered at Meydan Racecourse on Wednesday for final preparations, unveiling their ambitions for a night that promises drama, tactical intrigue, and a celebration of racing’s finest talent.
As the 30th anniversary of the Dubai Racing Carnival approaches, the undercard—boasting purses that rival the main event—has drawn a compelling mix of veteran stars and rising prospects, each with their own story to tell.
Turf Target: Gosden’s Patient Play
British handler John Gosden, a familiar force at Meydan with past winners Dar Re Mi and Mishriff, watched his charge Ombudsman stretch his legs on the Tapeta ahead of the $5 million Dubai Turf. The trainer described a campaign meticulously plotted since last year.
“It’s been the plan since last year… we made this the target,” Gosden said. “He’s bigger and stronger now, and he’s a horse who’s got better with age. He’s still edgy; he likes to look at everything. He’s got a very inquisitive mind.”
Sprint Ambitions: Bentornato Eyes Rare Double
In the $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen, Bentornato—last year’s Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner—returns to Meydan for his five-year-old debut. Trainer Jose d’Angelo expressed confidence despite an inside draw that could test his mount’s tactical versatility.
“He’s doing very well, and he’s keeping his condition well… He really likes this track too,” d’Angelo said. A victory would make Bentornato only the second horse in history to capture both the American sprinting championship and its Emirati counterpart.
The $1.5 million Al Quoz Sprint will see US challenger Reef Runner take aim. Trainer David Fawkes praised the gelding’s smooth transition to local conditions. “He’s adapted really well here, he seems to like this warm weather… I feel we have the horse to win this race,” he said.
Rising Stars: Pyromancer’s Derby Test
Youthful talent will take center stage in the $1 million UAE Derby, where Godolphin’s unbeaten Japanese colt Pyromancer—three starts, three victories—will be guided by James Doyle in his first UAE Derby ride.
Harry Sweeney, president of Godolphin Japan, struck a measured tone despite the colt’s impeccable record. “In theory, he has a very good chance, but this is a horse race, and we have enormous respect for all of these other runners as well,” Sweeney said. “We’ll concentrate on this race and if it goes well, we’ll consider the next option.”
Staying Power: European Form Meets Meydan’s Two Miles
The $1 million Dubai Gold Cup presents a marathon test, with Joseph O’Brien dispatching a formidable duo: G1 Irish St Leger winner Al Riffa and G2 Red Sea Turf victor Sons And Lovers. Former Gold Cup-winning trainer Mick Halford is assisting with preparations.
“They are experienced travellers… everything has gone as planned,” Halford said, underscoring the precision required for Meydan’s demanding two-mile challenge.
They will face Caballo De Mar, who arrives fresh from a breakthrough victory in the Prix du Cadran over 4,000 meters, completing a highly competitive European challenge.
Trainer George Scott, whose Caballo De Mar adds further depth to the staying division, said: “I always had this race as a great stepping stone… he loves to go forward in his races, and we’ll see how he stacks up against horses proven at this level.”
From sprints to marathons, young prospects to seasoned campaigners, Saturday’s card is a showcase of global equine talent. Behind the glamour and the headline-grabbing $12 million purse, connections are fine-tuning every detail—draws, track conditions, and race-day tactics—with each event carrying its own narrative and potential for glory.
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