Calandagan made a winning start to 2026 with a workmanlike performance in the Sheema Classic at Meydan on Saturday.

Officially the highest rated racehorse in the world last year, the French-trained gelding was the odds-on favourite to win this six-runner Group 1 over 12 furlongs. Held up in rear by jockey Mickael Barzalona, the five-year-old made headway smoothly in the straight and eased past the 33/1 front-runner West Wind Blows in the closing stages to win by a cosy three parts of a length.

The pair finished over three lengths clear of the third-placed Giavellotto, while the Irish-trained Ethical Diamond was always in rear and finished fifth of the six runners.

Winning trainer Francis-Henri Graffard said: "This race was very tactical, and I was a little worried, but when he found his stride and entered the home straight, it was simply incredible to watch, and I am very lucky to have him. This is his fifth consecutive Group 1 victory. He is the best racehorse in the world, and he now enjoys an outstanding reputation.

"I felt a lot of pressure today, and we are ready to continue the season with him. He is a horse who has never let us down - he is a true champion.”

Princess Zahra Aga Khan, owner and breeder of Calandagan, commented: "We hope he can continue for a long time yet. He has given us wonderful emotions. I think he will race in Europe in the summer, and after that we may consider another trip to Japan, but for now we must savour this important victory.”

Barzalona added: “He is an incredible horse. He has his own way of doing things, but he always gives everything at the finish. You have to trust him. He is every jockey’s dream. I feel so fortunate to ride him and grateful to be part of this team.”

Remainder of card

The most valuable race of the day, the Dubai World Cup over 10 furlongs on dirt, was won by the American-trained Magnitude. Jockey Jose Ortiz made virtually all the running on the four-year-old to score by a length from the game favourite Forever Young.

Earlier, the John and Thady Gosden-trained Ombudsman had no trouble winning the nine-furlong Dubai Turf under William Buick.