Middle East Racing Brings Added Value for U.S. Horses
The world of thoroughbred horse racing is becoming increasingly interconnected, with a growing exchange between North American and international events. This shift is driven by factors like increased prize money, advancements in transportation and technology, and a rising interest in global competition.
The Rise of Global Racing
The creation of the Dubai World Cup (G1) in 1996 by Sheikh Mohammed is widely recognized as a pivotal moment. This innovation, coupled with improvements in logistics and communication, spurred greater American participation in international races like the Dubai World Cup and the Saudi Cup (G1). Cigar’s victory in the inaugural World Cup notably accelerated this trend.
Conversely, the Breeders’ Cup World Championships has attracted increased international attention to American racing. This reciprocal relationship extends beyond simply on-track results, impacting breeding, ownership, and the global bloodstock market.
The Kentucky Derby Connection
Churchill Downs Inc. actively seeks international participation in the Kentucky Derby (G1), evidenced by the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby and the Euro/Mideast Road. The 2024 Run for the Roses saw Forever Young finish a strong third, highlighting this growing international presence.
A New Pathway for American-Bred Horses
The success of horses like Six Speed exemplifies the new opportunities emerging. Bred by KatieRich Farms in Kentucky, Six Speed, a colt by Not This Time, was initially sold for $50,000 at the 2024 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.
He then passed through the Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up sale in the United Kingdom, a common route for American-bred youngsters. Purchased by Bhupat Seemar for the equivalent of over $300,000, Six Speed went on to win the UAE Two Thousand Guineas (G3) in Dubai. His new owners—Brunetti Dugan Stables, Black Type Thoroughbreds, Steve Adkisson and Swinbank Stables—are now eyeing the UAE Derby (G2) as a potential stepping stone to the Kentucky Derby.
This journey illustrates a growing trend: American-bred horses with dirt pedigrees are finding profitable opportunities in international racing, particularly in the Middle East. Of the 16 three-year-olds who competed in the UAE Guineas, ten were bred in the U.S., with American-bred horses taking the first seven finishing positions. Devon Island, finishing second, also remains a contender for the UAE Derby.
Even Sheikh Mohammed, after years of attempting to win the Kentucky Derby with Dubai-trained horses, achieved success with a Kentucky-bred, homebred colt, Sovereignty, in 2025, suggesting a potentially successful cycle of breeding in Kentucky, racing in Europe and Dubai, and returning to compete in Kentucky.
Global Recognition and Awards
The globalization of racing is further underscored by the achievements of Forever Young, who was crowned both Japan’s 2025 Horse of the Year and the U.S. Eclipse Award winner for best older dirt male. His victories over Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup and Sierra Leone in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) were instrumental in securing these accolades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What event is credited with initiating the growth of international racing?
The creation of the Dubai World Cup (G1) in 1996 is credited with initiating the growth of international racing.
What role does the Kentucky Derby play in this global landscape?
Churchill Downs Inc. actively encourages international participation in the Kentucky Derby, offering races like the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby and the Euro/Mideast Road.
What is happening with American-bred horses in international markets?
American-bred horses, particularly those with dirt pedigrees, are increasingly finding opportunities and success in international markets, especially in the Middle East.
As international racing continues to evolve, will we see even greater collaboration and exchange between North America and the rest of the world?