10 reasons to attend Dubai World Cup this weekend

DUBAI: Having worked on the Dubai World Cup for 16 years, I’m a bit biased and consider it brilliant. But here’s 10 reasons why you, yes you, should be visiting Meydan Racecourse on Saturday, March 26, if you can.

1. It’s the best racing in the world

With $30.5 million in prize money across the nine races, none of which are worth less than $1 million, you tend to get the best. There are 34 Group I winners in action; six of them clashing in the $12 million Dubai World Cup itself. The best horse in the world, Life Is Good, runs in the World Cup.

2. The best jockeys in the world

Yes, Frankie Dettori will be here, riding Country Grammer in the World Cup. We also get to see top US-based brothers Irad and Jose Ortiz, plus the best of our locally based riders, including William Buick, James Doyle, Antonio Fresu and nine-time UAE Champion Tadhg O’Shea.

3. Trainers, too

Kentucky Derby winner Todd Pletcher is a rare visitor to Dubai, but he’s here to put the final polish on Life Is Good and Colonel Liam, while Yoshito Yahagi, one of the best trainers in Japan, has also made the journey. And from the UK we have Derby winners John Gosden and William Haggas.

4. The crowds are back

The World Cup was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 and the pandemic also forced it behind closed doors in 2021. This year the 60,000-capacity grandstand will be packed with people partying like it’s 2019 … because that’s the last time they did, at Meydan, anyway.

5. The fashion

Who doesn’t like a bit of color, some fabulous hats, some superb style and maybe a few fashion faux pas as well? The Dubai World Cup is all about seeing and being seen. There’s always a guy who gets it very wrong and goes full-on “Royal Ascot,” in top hat, tails and cane.