The 2024 Dubai World Cup is set to feature a high-stakes race with a purse of $12 million, attracting a strong field of contenders. The main question on everyone’s mind is whether late-blooming Senor Buscador can handle the mile-and-a-quarter distance or if defending champion Ushba Tesoro will be able to hold him off, along with the Japan-owned rival Derma Sotogake. Despite the hype surrounding Senor Buscador, he is not even among the top three favorites. The field also includes the second-favorite Kabirkhan and the improving Bob-Baffert-trained Newgate, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the outcome.
As race day approaches, the favored horses will need to put in a considerable amount of work to secure a win. The saddle cloth numbers at Meydan do not correspond with the post positions, with the horses listed alphabetically by name in English. Some of the top contenders include Derma Sotogake, Kabirkhan, Newgate, Senor Buscador, and Ushba Tesoro. Laurel River is expected to set the pace in the race, which will be a test of stamina for the field competing over the demanding mile-and-a-quarter distance, the same as the Kentucky Derby.
Senor Buscador’s connections have some doubts about his ability to handle the distance, as he barely held on to win the Saudi Cup at a nine-furlong distance. He will need to show more in the stretch to compete successfully over the longer distance in the Dubai World Cup. The Baffert-trained Newgate, coming off a victory at Santa Anita, is seen as a co-favorite along with Senor Buscador. Despite his limited racing experience, Baffert believes Newgate is ready to compete at a high level in the prestigious race.
The competition at the Dubai World Cup is shaping up to be intense, with a mix of experienced champions and up-and-coming contenders vying for the top spot. With the large purse on the line, the pressure is on for the horses and their connections to deliver a strong performance on race day. As the field prepares to line up at the starting gate, the Dubai World Cup promises to be a thrilling and unpredictable event with high stakes for all involved. Fans and punters alike are eagerly anticipating the outcome of the race and the chance to witness history in the making at one of the world’s most prestigious horse racing events.
