Dubai World Cup: Saeed bin Suroor’s Dubai Future earns memorable win

Legendary Emirati trainer Saeed bin Suroor was back on the podium as Dubai Future produced a stunning finish to win the $1 million Dubai Gold Cup at the Dubai World Cup on Saturday.

Ridden by Silvestre De Sousa, Dubai Future came from behind with strong run at the home stretch to win the longest race on the Dubai World Cup night at Meydan.

Double Major finished second while Epic Poet took the third place.

Earlier First Classs won the $1 million Dubai Kahayla Classic, a Group One dirt race, as the 29th Dubai World Cup got under way at Meydan on Saturday.

Ridden by Connor Beasley, the 2022 champion stayed strong and finished the race in style ahead of defending champion.

First Classs became only the third horse after Madjani and Unchained Melody to win the Dubai Kahayla Classic more than once.

Long before the start of the first race, the grandstand at the magnificent racecourse was buzzing with excitement at the $30.5 million event, one of the richest race nights in the world.

The highlight of today’s nine-race card is the $12 million Dubai World Cup which will see 11 thoroughbreds vying for glory on the dirt.

Japanese sensation Forever Young, who delivered a stunning run to win the $20 million Saudi Cup early this year, is the overwhelming favourite tonight at Meydan.

But don’t write off Bhupat Seemar’s chances of finding a place in the pantheon of racing immortals.

Having guided Laurel River to victory last year, the Dubai-based Indian trainer is pinning his hopes on Walk of Stars and Imperial Emperor, two formidable equine athletes, to land him another Dubai World Cup trophy.