The 2025–26 Dubai Racing Carnival kicked off in spectacular fashion at Meydan Racecourse, setting the stage for a season of high-stakes racing that will culminate in the 30th Dubai World Cup next March. The opening night was marked by the emergence of Argentine jockey William Pereyra, who made a dream debut with a commanding double, and the continued excellence of champion trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri, forging a promising new partnership.
Pereyra, a 31-year-old from Argentina’s Formosa Province, showcased his elite skills on his first appearance outside South America. He began his UAE campaign with a dominant 8¾-length victory aboard Shepperton Lodge in the Emirates SkyCargo Handicap, followed by a comfortable three-length win on Cupid’s Dream in the Emirates Airline Handicap. Both victories came under the banner of Al Mheiri’s Oasis Stables, signaling the start of a potentially fruitful alliance.
Al Mheiri, who recently lost star jockey Silvestre De Sousa to Jebel Ali Stables, turned to Pereyra, a seasoned rider with over 1,700 wins and 30 Group 1 victories in Argentina. The decision proved astute, as Pereyra’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen impressed both his trainer and the Meydan crowd. ‘William is a good find,’ Al Mheiri remarked. ‘He’s fitted in quickly with the team, and we have some exciting horses for the season.’
The evening also saw the return of Dark Saffron, last season’s Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) champion, who delivered a commanding performance in the Emirates Airline Conditions Stakes. Trainer Ahmad bin Harmash and jockey Connor Beasley celebrated a double, with Union Security coasting to victory in the Emirates Courier Express Maiden. Meanwhile, former champion trainer Bhupat Seemar made his mark with Grey Boss, a debut winner in the Arabian Adventures Maiden.
The international flair of the Carnival was evident, with British, Brazilian, and Uruguayan talents gracing the winner’s circle. As the curtain fell on the opening night, the stage was set for a season of unforgettable racing, with Meydan’s 30th World Cup anniversary promising to be a landmark event.