Experience the thrill of Dubai World Cup 2025! Meydan hosts historic races, smashing records, featuring elite horses, jockeys & global fans.
The Pinnacle of Global Horse Racing
On April 5, 2025, the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai transformed into a roaring arena of history, adrenaline, and world-class equestrian excellence. The Dubai World Cup 2025, one of the richest and most prestigious horse racing events globally, shattered records in front of a global audience. With over $30.5 million in prize money across nine races, it wasn’t just a competition—it was a spectacle.
A Night of Champions: Winners and Highlights
🏆 Race of the Day: The Dubai World Cup (G1)
- Winner: Thunderstrike (USA)
- Jockey: Luis Saez
- Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Time: 1:59.84 (New Record!)
- Prize: $12 million
In a jaw-dropping performance, Thunderstrike clocked the fastest time in the history of the Dubai World Cup, dethroning the previous 2021 record set by Mystic Guide.
Global Participation and Record Attendance
With over 70,000 spectators at Meydan and millions more watching across the globe, the 2025 edition saw participation from:
- 16 countries
- Top contenders from the USA, Japan, UK, France, and UAE
- Legendary stables such as Godolphin, Coolmore, and Shadwell
This marked the highest international representation since the Cup’s inception in 1996.
Other Notable Races
| Race | Winner | Prize | Record Broken? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) | Green Comet (JPN) | $6 million | ✅ Yes (Distance) |
| Dubai Turf (G1) | Sahara Light (UAE) | $5 million | ❌ |
| Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) | Blazing Trail (USA) | $2.5 million | ✅ Fastest Sprint |
Star Power and Glamour
Celebrities such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Naomi Campbell, and Deepika Padukone added red-carpet charm. The event also saw top designers showcasing custom equestrian fashion, adding elegance to speed.
Economic Impact and Tourism Boost
According to the Dubai Racing Club, the event injected an estimated $125 million into the local economy. Hotels reported 98% occupancy, while tourism in March-April 2025 saw a 22% spike compared to last year.
Technological Innovations Introduced
- AI Jockey Analysis: Real-time jockey stats and fatigue levels via wearable tech
- 3D Virtual Replays: Viewers could rewatch races in full 360-degree simulation
- Eco-Sustainable Turf: Meydan introduced a new water-saving grass blend, earning global praise
What Made Dubai World Cup 2025 So Special?
- Unmatched Prize Money
- Record-Breaking Wins
- Global Participation
- Technological Firsts
- Royal Patronage and Cultural Pride
This year, the Dubai Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, praised the organizers and emphasized the UAE’s vision to lead in sports innovation and excellence.