DAVID O’Farrell of the Dubai Racing Club is touring Ireland at the moment seeking entries for the 2025-’26 Dubai International Racing Carnival.

The Carnival covers 16 weeks of racing at Meydan, starting on November 7th and ending on March 28th with Dubai World Cup night.

O’Farrell, originally from Dublin and a graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start programme, said: “The main message is that all races at the Carnival are open to everyone – there is no such thing as local races anymore.”

There is minimum rating for eligibility but there are travel incentives available for horses rated 105 and over. Air freight costs are covered by the organisers, along with staff accommodation.

“There are experienced grooms employed who are free for everyone to use, so trainers only need to send over one work rider for every couple of horses. We also provide complimentary breakfast and accommodation at our stabling complex.”

This year the Dubai Racing Club has put in place a number of initiatives aimed at helping Carnival runners earn a place in a race on World Cup night.

“There are 10 ‘win and you’re in’ races for World Cup night, and a 10% prize money bonus if a winner of one of those qualifying races goes on to win on the World Cup card.”

While there are plenty of turf races for horses rated 70-plus, owners and trainers should also consider the dirt race programme at Meydan. “Jamie Osborne won two races on the dirt with Heart Of Honor last season and the horse went on to run well in the UAE Derby and then went for the Preakness.”

O’Farrell said it is not unheard of for European horses to be purchased by local owners during the Carnival, or for trainers to make connections with local owners who wish to have horses in training in Europe.

Tel: 00 971 55 253 3218 (David)

Email: David.Farrell@dubairacingclub.com

Web: dubairacingclub.com