Country Grammer wins Dubai World Cup

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, awarded Country Grammer of Zedan Racing Stables with the prestigious $12 million Group 1 Dubai World Cup.

Ridden by Frankie Dettori, Country Grammer pulled ahead of favourite Life Is Good a half furlong from the finish and won by about two lengths on the 2,000-meter course at Meydan.

As Life Is Good slowed, it was Dettori on board Country Grammer in the colours of Zedan, who shares the horse with WinStar Farm and Commonwealth Thoroughbreds, who was quickest to capitalise on the failure of the favourite.

Dettori, who previously won the Dubai World Cup riding Dubai Millennium, Moon Ballad and Electrocutionist, won the race for the first time in colours other than those of Dubai-based racing operation Godolphin.

Country Grammar has been trained by Bob Baffert, who won the Dubai World Cup more than any other American trainer.

Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the UAE’s emergence as a hub for equestrian sports and activities.

"The Dubai World Cup has become one of the world’s biggest and most anticipated equestrian events. Over the years, the meeting has attracted the most elite professionals in this sport and has left an influential imprint in the world of horse racing," His Highness said. "This edition of the Dubai World Cup is a time to celebrate the UAE’s distinguished position globally as a leading venue for hosting renowned equestrian championships.”