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Abu Dhabi Racecourse has announced the completion of preparations to host the Abu Dhabi Golden Cup race next Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the emirate’s equestrian calendar. While the Golden Cup has been a fixture in the racing season schedule, this year represents a turning point with the introduction of a new world-class Thoroughbred race in the Listed category, marking Abu Dhabi’s first entry into the international Thoroughbred racing market at this level of global participation.
The Abu Dhabi Golden Cup for Thoroughbreds serves as the evening’s main event, offering prize money of one million dollars, making it one of the most valuable races in this category worldwide. According to Ali Al Shaiba, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Racecourse and Chairman of the tournament’s organizing committee, the race has attracted elite international horses that reflect the UAE’s position on the global horse racing map.
Elite International Horses Compete in Abu Dhabi Golden Cup
The race has drawn a stellar field of international competitors including Strauss trained by Ryo Taki, Witness Stand trained by Dr. Richard Newland and Jamie Insole, Holloway Boy trained by Karl Burke, and Qudwa trained by Simon and Ed Crisford. Additionally, Comanche Brave trained by Donnacha O’Brien, Maljoom trained by Michael Costa, and Juncal trained by Andrew Balding will compete for the prestigious prize.
The winner of the race will receive an automatic berth in the Grade 1 Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic, worth one million dollars, held at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby day. This connection enhances the international standing of the Abu Dhabi event and establishes it as a significant stepping stone in the global racing calendar.
Strategic Partnerships Strengthen Racing Event
In demonstrating its commitment to equestrian sport, Abu Dhabi Racecourse has signed a strategic three-year partnership with ADNOC, making the company the official sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Golden Cup for three consecutive editions from 2026 to 2028. Meanwhile, Etihad Airways has joined as an official sponsor of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Golden Cup, serving as the presenting partner for the first race of the evening.
Al Shaiba emphasized that launching the first edition of this Thoroughbred racing event represents a qualitative addition to the races organized and hosted by Abu Dhabi Racecourse. He noted that this category attracts significant attention from racing enthusiasts worldwide and brings elite horses to compete at one of the nation’s most prestigious tracks.
Race Specifications and Supporting Events
Entry to the race is restricted to horses rated 95 or above, designated for Thoroughbreds aged four years and older, in addition to three-year-olds. However, fillies and mares are allowed a weight allowance of 2 kilograms, ensuring a high level of competitive balance among participants.
The evening’s program includes seven races combining Thoroughbreds and Purebred Arabians, embodying the UAE’s rich heritage and global ambitions in horse racing. Supporting races include the Al Anoud Classic (Group 1) over 2200 meters, the Liwa Oasis Stakes (Group 2) over 1400 meters, and the first round of the Arabian Triple Crown (Listed) over 1600 meters for four-year-old Purebred Arabians.
Trophy and Event Experience
The winner will be crowned with a trophy specially designed for the event by the historic British house of Garrard, the world’s oldest jewelers known for crafting prominent international sporting trophies. According to organizers, the trophy design draws inspiration from Emirati heritage, incorporating the symbolism of the Ghaf tree, traditional Sadu weaving patterns, and authentic equestrian elements.
The Abu Dhabi Golden Cup evening extends beyond racing, with guests enjoying an upscale experience at the recently renovated Abu Dhabi Racecourse facilities. The venue features world-class hospitality at the Michelin-starred Hakkasan lounge, alongside diverse food and beverage offerings, live artistic performances, a Best Dressed competition, family activities, and a post-race celebration hosted by an international DJ.
The inaugural running of the Abu Dhabi Golden Cup is scheduled for next Saturday, with race officials expected to confirm final field declarations and draw positions in the coming days.
