Dubai: Ten of the leading companies in the region have teamed up with Dubai Racing Club to support the world's richest day of racing on March 29, featuring the $6 million Dubai World Cup, sponsored by Emirates airline.
The centrepiece of the seven-race card at Nad Al Sheba is the Group 1 Dubai World Cup, the world's richest race. The supporting six races are also of the highest order and contribute to making the meeting the most competitive and valuable raceday in the world.
At the official launch last night, Frank Gabriel, CEO of the Dubai Racing Club, said: "Our partners are an extremely important factor in the success of the Dubai World Cup meeting, which is worth more than $21million in prize-money."
Last year, it was the American Horse-of-the-Year Invasor, who claimed the top honours. Twelve months later, it is the current incumbent of the Horse-of-the-Year crown, Curlin, who will be attempting to continue America's fine record in the race.
The $21.25 million Dubai card also features the $5 million Dubai Sheema Classic, sponsored by Nakheel, and the $5 million Dubai Duty Free, sponsored by Dubai Duty Free, both run on turf.
The other Group 1 showpiece on the illustrious card is the Dubai Golden Shaheen, sponsored by Gulf News, which will see a strong contingent from America as always.
Godolphin Mile
The Group 2 Godolphin Mile, sponsored by etisalat, could feature American star Diamond Stripes, while the Group 2 UAE Derby, sponsored by Saeed and Mohammad Al Naboodah Holding, is likely to feature the South African stablemates Honour Devil and Royal Vintage, representing the same owner and trainer as last year's winner Asiatic Boy.
The opening race on the card is the Dubai Kahayla Classic, sponsored by EMAAR Properties, which regularly attracts the best Purebred Arabians in the world and will see Madjani attempt a record-breaking fourth win in the race.
The Dubai Racing Club thanked the sponsors and event sponsors African & Eastern, BBC World and Land Rover.
