Friday’s race card at Meydan promises excitement for all racing enthusiasts. With a mix of emerging talents and established competitors, the event shines a spotlight on Godolphin’s trainer Charlie Appleby, whose stable is in excellent form as the Dubai Racing Carnival unfolds.
Thus far in the 2025/26 season, Appleby has achieved a noteworthy strike rate, recording nine winners from 36 runners, equating to a 25 percent success rate. His dominance in the upcoming races is highlighted by having the favorite in six out of eight events, establishing his strong position as the Carnival progresses.
At the heart of the evening’s action is the Group 3 Dubai Millennium Stakes, named after the Godolphin icon who triumphed in the 2000 Dubai World Cup. This race has consistently showcased top-tier talent, with notable past winners like three-time Group 1 victor Hunter’s Pride and Ghaiyyath, who earned the title of Longines World’s Best Racehorse in 2020.
The Dubai Millennium Stakes, contested on turf over the same distance as the prestigious $12 million Dubai World Cup, serves as a true challenge. Appleby has a remarkable record in this race, having won it nine times, including the last seven renewals. This year, he enters two strong contenders: By The Book, who recently claimed the Dubai Racing Club Classic under jockey William Buick, and Arabian Light, fresh off a victory at the Zabeel Turf with Billy Loughnane in the saddle.
“By The Book and Arabian Light go into this in great order,” Appleby noted. “It’s their first time in Group company, but both have shown promise and performed well at Meydan. I’d be disappointed if they aren’t competitive.”
Challenging Apple’s pair will be Crystal Black, making his UAE debut for trainer Gerard Keane, and Chibitty, a recent addition to David Simcock’s stable. Simcock recognizes the significant implications of Friday’s race for Chibitty’s future.
The Listed Dubai Sprint, a 1200-meter contest, attracts a competitive field of 15 runners, including Dark Saffron, a previous Group 1 winner returning to turf after two less than ideal performances on dirt. Trainer Ahmad bin Harmash expressed optimism about the switch, stating, “We want him to travel behind the leaders and regain his confidence.”
Among the contenders is Appleby’s Symbol Of Honour, a dual Carnival winner who is making his seasonal debut. The trainer views this race as an opportunity for Symbol Of Honour to build towards future contests.
International flair will be evident in the Mawj Stakes, which showcases a diverse global field. Competitors from Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Czechia, France, and the UK will face off against local challengers, making for a thrilling fillies’ contest over 1,400 meters. Appleby’s Dance To The Music stands out as a favorite, having recently competed at Group 1 level in Britain.
Spanish entrant Gelinotte, trained by Efrain Arguinzones, aims for success here as a preparation for her main target, the Jumeirah 1000 Guineas, which is slated for the Carnival.
The evening’s festivities kick off with the Jumeirah Guineas Trial, where promising three-year-olds will showcase their potential. Title Role, trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, aims to build upon a strong performance from earlier this month, hoping to improve with the added distance.
As the excitement builds at Meydan, Wednesday promises a captivating day of racing.