World Champion Calandagan Confirmed for Dubai World Cup Despite Regional Tensions

Calandagan, the world top-rated Flat horse for 2025, will travel from Paris to Dubai this Saturday to compete in the prestigious Sheema Classic at Meydan next weekend, despite ongoing regional tensions in the Gulf that have created uncertainty around international racing participation.

The five-year-old gelding exceptional credentials include four Group One victories last season, highlighted by his triumph in the Japan Cup in November that cemented his status as global racing elite. Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, Calandagan represents the pinnacle of European Flat racing talent.

Aga Khan Studs made their final decision after extensive consultations with staff already positioned in Dubai, ensuring they possessed current intelligence about conditions on the ground. Racing manager Nemone Routh confirmed Friday that the ownership group had carefully evaluated all relevant factors before committing to the lucrative assignment.

We have been very happy with Calandagan, Routh stated. If we did not run in Dubai then we would have been looking at races in the summer. He is in great form and we already have a filly out there with staff. We have been keeping in close contact with them.

The decision-making process involved assessing both sporting and security considerations, with particular attention paid to feedback from personnel already operating in the region. Routh emphasized their methodical approach, explaining that they had worked the horse again Friday morning before making their final commitment.

We have assessed the whole situation, worked the horse again this morning and he is in great form so we have taken the decision to send him and run him next weekend, she confirmed.

Calandagan participation ensures that Dubai World Cup night maintains its international prestige despite a reduced European contingent this year. The 30 million dollar card represents one of global racing most valuable programs, attracting elite horses from multiple continents.

The Sheema Classic field promises exceptional quality despite the smaller European representation. Willie Mullins accomplished Ethical Diamond, who claimed the 2025 Breeders Cup Turf, provides formidable opposition alongside Charlie Appleby dual Turf winner Rebel Romance, victorious in both 2022 and 2024.

Meanwhile, British racing approaches a historic milestone as Dan Skelton closes in on becoming the first National Hunt trainer to surpass four million pounds in seasonal prize money. The trainer currently sits approximately 65,000 pounds short of the barrier heading into Saturday extensive program.

Skelton will deploy 16 runners across meetings at Newbury, Kelso, and Bangor-on-Dee, with the majority of potential earnings concentrated in Newbury Goffs Hundred Grand Bumper. Diamond Street leads Skelton assault on the valuable contest after producing an impressive 10-length debut victory at Doncaster.

The gelding abrupt acceleration and commanding winning margin suggest significant untapped potential, particularly considering his limited racing experience provides scope for further improvement. Top-rated on current form, Diamond Street represents Skelton best opportunity to achieve the landmark financial achievement.

Skelton remarkable season has already established a British record for National Hunt prize money, demonstrating the sustained excellence that has characterized his training operation. Breaking the four million pound barrier would represent not just personal achievement but a significant milestone for British jump racing.

The weekend racing program spans multiple countries and disciplines, from Dubai international glamour to British domestic competition, illustrating the sport global reach and diverse appeal. Each venue provides unique challenges and opportunities for horsemen seeking to maximize their animals potential.

Calandagan journey from Paris to Dubai exemplifies modern racing international character, where elite horses routinely traverse continents pursuing the most prestigious prizes available to their connections.