Excitement Unleashed at the 2026 Emirates Super Saturday
A Night to Remember
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, graced the 2026 Emirates Super Saturday, an exhilarating event held at Meydan Racecourse. This special evening, serving as a precursor to the prestigious 30th Dubai World Cup scheduled for March 28, showcased intense competition and remarkable performances from elite horses, jockeys, and trainers.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed pride in Dubai’s prominent role in the global horse racing scene. “Emirates Super Saturday reflects Dubai’s leading position in global horse racing and the remarkable progress we have achieved in this sport,” he stated. The event is a testament to the emirate’s dedication to developing its reputation as a premier equestrian hub.
Competitive Spirit at the Racecourse
The Emirates Super Saturday is often viewed as the official dress rehearsal for the Dubai World Cup, featuring nine thrilling races that mimic the upcoming racing extravaganza. This year, the event boasted a total prize purse of AED 10.3 million, approximately one-third of what competitors will vie for during the Dubai World Cup, attracting around 100 horses.
Highlight of the Night: G2 Al Maktoum Classic
Among the evening’s key races was the G2 Al Maktoum Classic, sponsored by Emirates Airline. This 2000-metre dirt race serves as a critical stepping stone toward the G1 Dubai World Cup. Meydaan triumphed impressively under jockey William Buick, trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, while Walk Of Stars took second place, with Mickael Barzalona in the saddle for trainer Bhupat Seemar.
Capture the Glory: G2 Singspiel Stakes
Quddwah, also owned by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, showcased stellar skills by clinching victory in the G2 Singspiel Stakes, another Emirates Airline-sponsored race over 1,800 metres on turf. The horse narrowly edged out Dividend, which finished just behind under jockey Rossa Ryan for trainers Dr. Richard Newland and Jamie Insole.
Stayers in Action: G2 Dubai City of Gold
The evening continued with the G2 Dubai City of Gold, featuring eight horses over a challenging 2,410-metre turf course. Rebel’s Romance, representing Godolphin, made a decisive statement by winning under the expert guidance of jockey William Buick and trainer Charlie Appleby, while Fort George followed closely in second.
Purebred Arabian Brilliance
The night began with a thrilling display in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge, where Falaah surged in the final moments to secure victory in the 2,000-metre dirt race. This win not only marked trainer Ahmed Al Balushi’s first success of the season but also his second victory overall in the UAE.
Intense Showdowns Continue
The G3 Burj Nahar, another preparatory race leading up to the G2 Godolphin Mile, saw a fierce contest between Commissioner King and The Camden Colt. Ultimately, Commissioner King emerged victorious, proudly sporting the silks of Faisal Mohammed A. AlQahtani.
The 2023 Jumeirah 1000 Guineas
The evening featured the Listed Jumeirah 1000 Guineas, which tested three-year-old fillies over a mile on turf. Piana showcased her skills, leaving the competition behind to achieve a well-earned victory. Under jockey Stephane Pasquier for trainer Nicolas Caullery, she crossed the finish line with confidence in the silks of SCEA Haras Des Forets.
High-Speed Thrills in the Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint
In the third race of the night, the G3 Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint captivated the audience with high-speed action over 1,200 metres on turf. Native Approach, under the training of Ahmad bin Harmash and ridden by Connor Beasley, sped to victory, claiming the AED 1.2 million prize. Run Boy Run finished in second place while Cover Up secured third.
A Champion’s Touch in the G3 Mahab Al Shimaal
The G3 Mahab Al Shimaal, a six-furlong dirt race renowned for producing champions, witnessed a remarkable performance from El Naseeb. The horse claimed victory under an outstanding ride from Silvestre De Sousa, trained by Musabbeh Al Mheiri.
The Finale: Jumeirah 2000 Guineas
Capping off the evening was the Listed Jumeirah 2000 Guineas, where Title Role emerged as the strongest competitor among three-year-old horses, completing the mile on turf with remarkable skill. Jockey Ryan Moore guided Title Role across the finish line for trainers Simon and Ed Crisford, surpassing Pacific Avenue.
Throughout this thrilling evening, the 2026 Emirates Super Saturday solidified its reputation as more than just a precursor to the Dubai World Cup; it highlighted Dubai’s advanced position in international horse racing and its commitment to fostering equestrian excellence in the region.
