The 2025-26 Dubai Racing Carnival has emerged as a truly international equestrian spectacle, with Meydan Racecourse preparing to host over 300 thoroughbreds representing 19 different countries. The prestigious event, which commenced on November 7th, will continue through March 2026, culminating in the landmark 30th Dubai World Cup on March 28, 2026.
According to the Dubai Racing Club’s media office, the carnival has already received participants from the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Norway, with additional international contenders expected to arrive in the coming weeks. This diverse gathering underscores Dubai’s growing prominence as a global racing hub.
Erwan Charpy, Head of Racing Operations & International Relations at Dubai Racing Club, emphasized the significance of this international turnout: “We are delighted to have acceptors for the Carnival from so many different countries. This further underlines the position of Dubai as the centre of the racing world and is a compliment to both our facilities and our racing programme.”
The event features an impressive roster of accomplished trainers and champion horses. British trainer Jamie Osborne arrived early with his team, including the notable Heart Of Honor, who placed second in the G2 UAE Derby and fifth in the G1 Preakness. Norwegian trainer Niels Petersen brought 11 horses, featuring Norsk Derby winner War Socks.
Czech-based trainer Miroslav Nieslanik returned to Meydan with globetrotting sprinter Ponntos and five other competitors, while Denmark’s Veronika Jandova arrived with seven horses, including Listed race winner Hans Andersen.
Newmarket trainer Phil Spencer and principal backer Phil Cunningham have deployed a 10-horse team under their Rebel Racing banner, featuring Goodwood Stewards’ Cup winner Two Tribes and Ayr Gold Cup champion Run Boy Run.
The competition intensifies with several trainers targeting later meetings. Notable entries include G2 Lennox Stakes winner Witness Stand, high-class sprinter Mitbaahy for Charles Hills, and G1 Lockinge Stakes champion Audience returning for trainers John and Thady Gosden.
Meydan Racecourse will host three race meetings in December on the 5th, 12th, and 19th, culminating in Festive Friday featuring two Thoroughbred G2 events: the Al Maktoum Mile and the Al Rashidiya.