DUBAI,— Magnitude ridden by Jose Ortiz surged ahead and held off Forever Young to win the Dubai World Cup 2026 on Saturday as the United Arab Emirates staged its first major international sporting event since war began in the Middle East.

The race at Meydan Racecourse, with a 12 million dollar prize for the winner, went ahead as planned even as several regional events were delayed or called off after a conflict triggered when the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran.

Magnitude, owned by Winchell Thoroughbreds, stopped Forever Young from holding all three major dirt race titles for older horses, including the Breeders’ Cup Classic and the Saudi Cup.

Magnitude, a horse born in 2022, led by about one and a half lengths entering the final stretch.

Forever Young, trained in Japan and ridden by Ryusei Sakai, tried to close the gap in the last 300 meters but could not catch up. Magnitude finished the 10 furlong race in two minutes 4.38 seconds.

Ortiz said he respected Forever Young but believed his horse could win. He said the horse started well and took the lead early.

He added he saw Forever Young approaching near the 600 meter mark and urged Magnitude forward.

The victory marked a second Dubai World Cup win for trainer Steven Asmussen, who last won in 2008 with Curlin.

Meydaan, named after the race venue, finished third.

Dubai’s international airport was targeted by drone attacks earlier in the month, forcing flights to be canceled, delayed or diverted during Iranian strikes on Gulf countries.

Poor weather also threatened the event, but conditions improved before more than 100 horses from different countries took part in nine races.

The meeting went ahead under tight arrangements with international participants arriving despite disruptions.

Officials kept the schedule unchanged and completed the full program of races at the venue without delays or further incidents reported on the day of competition in Dubai on Saturday night local time.

(With files from Reuters)

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