More than 300 horses from 19 countries are set to participate in the 2025-26 Dubai Racing Carnival at Meydan Racecourse, scheduled to run until March next year. This event leads into the prestigious 30th Dubai World Cup, which will take place on March 28, 2026.
The racing carnival officially commenced on November 7, already welcoming equine competitors from the UK, Denmark, and Norway. Additional entries are anticipated in the coming weeks, as reported by the Dubai Racing Club’s media office.
Erwan Charpy, head of Racing Operations & International Relations at the Dubai Racing Club, expressed excitement about the diverse participants. He noted that the variety of countries represented highlights Dubai’s status as a global racing hub, a testament to the quality of its facilities and racing program.
Notable arrivals include British trainer Jamie Osborne, who brings his team, featuring Heart Of Honor, a strong contender that finished second in the G2 UAE Derby and fifth in the G1 Preakness. Niels Petersen has transported 11 horses from Norway, including the Norsk Derby victor, War Socks.
Czech trainer Miroslav Nieslanik has returned to Meydan with six horses, including his well-known sprinter Ponntos. Additionally, Denmark’s Veronika Jandova has already settled in with seven entrants, including Hans Andersen, who performed well upon returning to Dubai last season.
Newmarket-based trainer Phil Spencer, alongside his primary supporter Phil Cunningham, has also made a strong statement with a team of 10 horses under their Rebel Racing banner. Their group includes notable competitors, such as Goodwood Stewards’ Cup winner Two Tribes and Ayr Gold Cup champion Run Boy Run.
Several trainers are eyeing forthcoming races. Witness Stand, who won the G2 Lennox Stakes for Dr. Richard Newland and Jamie Insole, is a likely runner at Meydan early next year. High-class sprinter Mitbaahy is confirmed for Charles Hills, while Audience, the G1 Lockinge Stakes winner from 2024, will return to Dubai under trainers John and Thady Gosden.
British trainer Karl Burke plans to send a five-horse team, which includes G1 Jebel Hatta third Holloway Boy. Similarly, G2 Dubai Gold Cup third Epic Poet will make another appearance for trainer David O’Meara.
Charpy conveyed enthusiasm about the upcoming weeks, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome numerous Group 1 winners and top-tier horses to Dubai, and we wish all trainers the best of luck with their plans and travel.”
Meydan Racecourse will host three racing events in December, on the 12th, 15th, and 19th, culminating in Festive Friday. This special day features two Thoroughbred G2 races: the Al Maktoum Mile and the Al Rashidiya.