The 2026 Dubai Racing Carnival commenced with spectacular energy at Meydan Racecourse, setting an electrifying tone for the upcoming 30th anniversary Dubai World Cup. The opening night showcased elite jockey talent and emerging equine stars, generating widespread optimism for the season ahead.
Reigning UAE Champion Silvestre De Sousa and former Godolphin duo William Buick and James Doyle dominated the card, collectively securing six victories. Doyle expertly guided Quddwah to a commanding win in the featured Group 2 Zabeel Mile for trainers Simon and Ed Crisford, immediately sparking discussions about the horse’s potential to emulate his dam Sajjhaa’s 2013 Dubai Turf triumph.
Trainer Ed Crisford expressed considerable confidence in Quddwah’s future prospects, noting the horse’s smooth adaptation to Meydan’s conditions. The Crisford-Doyle partnership achieved a double when Meydaan demonstrated powerful finishing in the Zoho Handicap over 2800 meters.
De Sousa delivered a masterclass in timing aboard El Nasseeb, securing back-to-back victories in the Dubai Stakes (G3). Trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri acknowledged the sprinter’s potential for World Cup night consideration while emphasizing the need for careful campaign planning.
The evening featured several breakthrough moments, including Billy Loughnane’s inaugural Meydan victory aboard Two Tribes just days after breaking Kieren Fallon’s longstanding record of 222 winners in a calendar year. British trainer Richard Spencer celebrated this milestone while eyeing future international competitions.
Additional international success came via Ed Walker’s first UAE training victory with Northern Champion, who displayed exceptional determination under jockey Kieran Shoemark. William Buick contributed significantly to the evening’s excitement with a double, including a impressive performance by Six Speed in the UAE 2000 Guineas Trial.
With world-class competition established from the outset, the 2026 Carnival has positioned itself as a compelling precursor to the historic 30th Dubai World Cup celebration, promising exceptional racing action throughout the winter season.