A huge number of experienced equestrian fans give their preference to the annual competition, which has been held at the Meydan Racecourse in the capital of UAE since 1996. According to experts, this competition provides a top level of organization and the fairest conditions for participants. Experts also note the beauty of thoroughbred chargers, which annually take part in tournaments.
Let’s get acquainted with the history of this championship and find out whether the event that takes place in the United Arab Emirates really corresponds to its high status in the world of equestrian sports.
Dubai World Cup History
The championship takes its history in 1996 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of the capital of UAE and the prime minister of the UAE. In addition, he was the owner of Darley Stud & Godolphin Racing, which was engaged in breeding thoroughbred chargers.
Such a top status of the organizer provided the necessary funding for the championship, and his love for horses influenced the selection of the best mounts to participate in the competition.
It was decided to hold the races at the largest and most luxurious Meydan hippodrome, which can accommodate 60,000 spectators at the same time. Due to the high popularity of the event, not everyone can get to the stands. In this regard, it is being broadcast on major global TV channels and the Internet, which allows everyone to enjoy the horse contests in real-time.
Dubai World Cup Popularity
This competition quickly gained immense popularity due to its entertainment and top level of organization. High prize funds immediately attracted the attention of top jockeys and ensured high popularity.
The prize pools grew quickly and already in 2019, participants competed for $12 million, which ensured a first place in the global list of the most expensive events.
Many spectators love the racing format, which is a flat dirt race over 2000 meters. This format allows the mount and rider to show their skills and enjoy the beauty of equestrian sport.
At the moment, the championship continues to occupy a leading position. The 2020 championship was canceled due to the coronavirus epidemic, but in the following years, the tournament was again successfully held and attracted the attention of millions of viewers around the globe.
Interesting fact: The Dubai World Cup is the first horse race to be shown on US national television.
Enjoy The Most Prestigious Event Of Equestrian Sports
At the moment, the creator of this championship has already moved away from the management of horse racing, but his successor Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who, among other things, is the Minister of the UAE, is doing this instead, which ensures a high level of organization and sufficient funding.
Become one of the millions of spectators and get an unforgettable experience of the races taking place at the Meydan Hippodrome!