Based on a media release from Dubai we have summarized the following:
In a significant development for international horse racing, the prestigious $12 million Dubai World Cup (G1) and three additional Group 1 races from the April 5 card at Meydan Racecourse have been added to the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series: Win and You're In.
The announcement, made on Sunday, secures automatic qualification for the 2025 Breeders' Cup World Championships for the winners of these four races. The Dubai World Cup, a 1 1/4-mile race, will serve as an official qualifier for the $7 million Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1).
The three other Meydan races joining the Challenge Series are:
- $2 million Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) - Qualifier for the $2 million Cygames Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1)
- $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) - Qualifier for the $5 million Longines Breeders' Cup Turf (G1)
- $5 million Dubai Turf (G1) - Qualifier for the $2 million FanDuel Breeders' Cup Mile (G1)
The Breeders' Cup Challenge Series, now in its 19th year, provides automatic entry into the 42nd Breeders' Cup World Championships, set for October 31 - November 1, 2025, at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in California. The event will feature 14 Grade 1 races across two days, with over $34 million in purses and awards.
As part of the agreement, Breeders' Cup and Dubai Racing Club have introduced a reciprocal incentive, where the winners of select Breeders' Cup races will earn automatic entry into corresponding Dubai World Cup meeting races in 2026.
Industry leaders have welcomed the partnership, citing its significance for international racing. Drew Fleming, President and CEO of Breeders' Cup Limited, said, "This partnership with the Dubai Racing Club is a testament to the growing unity in our sport and recognizes top international talent."
Sheikh Rashed Bin Dalmook Bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, added, "We are pleased to secure automatic places for our winners at Del Mar while also welcoming four Breeders' Cup victors to compete at the Dubai World Cup meeting."
The Breeders' Cup will cover entry fees for the Dubai-based Challenge Series winners competing at the 2025 Breeders' Cup World Championships, and international contenders will receive a travel allowance. However, to claim these benefits, horses must be nominated to the Breeders' Cup program by October 20, 2025.