Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world, and it continues to captivate audiences today. But some races are more expensive than others. The most expensive horse race in the world is the Dubai World Cup, a high-stakes race that takes place annually in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
A Brief History of the Dubai World Cup
The Dubai World Cup was first held in 1996, and it has since become one of the most prestigious and lucrative horse races in the world. The race is sponsored by the Dubai Racing Club and is the centerpiece of the Dubai World Cup Night, a series of other races that take place on the same night. The Dubai World Cup is held annually in late March or early April at the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai. This state-of-the-art racecourse is the largest in the world and features an impressive grandstand that can hold up to 60,000 spectators.
The Race Purse
The Dubai World Cup is known for its huge purse, and it is the most expensive horse race in the world. The winner of the race will receive a staggering $12 million, making it the most lucrative race in the world. The prize money for the race has steadily increased in recent years, and the purse has now exceeded $30 million. In addition to the winner’s prize, the race also awards money to the second, third and fourth place finishers.
Notable Winners
The Dubai World Cup has been won by some of the world’s best horses, including American Pharoah, California Chrome and Arrogate. American Pharoah won the race in 2015 and became the first horse to win the Triple Crown and the Dubai World Cup in the same year. California Chrome won the race in 2016, and Arrogate won the race in 2017, becoming the first horse to win back-to-back runnings of the race.
Notable Participants
The Dubai World Cup has attracted some of the world’s best jockeys and trainers, including Hall of Fame jockeys Mike Smith and John Velazquez. Trainer Bob Baffert has had a number of horses compete in the race, including California Chrome and Arrogate. He also trained American Pharoah, who ran in the race in 2015.
Conclusion
The Dubai World Cup is the most expensive horse race in the world, and its purse of $12 million makes it the most lucrative race in the world. The race has been won by some of the world’s best horses, and it has attracted some of the best jockeys and trainers in the world. The race is held annually in late March or early April at the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai.