Due growing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, the difficult decision was made to call off the meeting at Meydan Racecourse which was due to take place on Saturday, March 28.
Saeed Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board & CEO of Meydan Group LLC, announced: “Due to the ongoing global health implications of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and precautionary measures being implement by the UAE government, the organising committee regrets to announce the cancellation of the Dubai World Cup 2020 meeting at Meydan Racecourse on Saturday, March 28.”
ERA Official Yasir Mabrouk, who has been part of the Dubai World Cup journey since its inception in 1996, agreed with the cancellation of the event despite this being its 25th Anniversary.
“It is hugely disappointing news for the horse racing community, but the proliferation of the COVID-19 remains unchecked,” he said.
“The UAE government has always put public safety and health before anything else and its reassuring that the decision to call-off the Dubai World Cup is an assurance that the safety and welfare of trainers, jockeys, owners, stable staff and racing officials are a priority.
“Having been a part of the racing fabric of the UAE for over 25 years I feel sorry for a lot of people who have worked hard for months and months, preparing for March 28, the silver jubilee. But this is something that we have to accept as it is beyond everyone’s control.”
Saeed Bin Surour, Godolphin’s nine-time Dubai World Cup-winning handler, told Gulf News: “Obviously this is very disappointing news, but it’s the right decision as the safety of all concerned is of great importance.
“These are very difficult times and my thoughts are with everyone, not just the racing community, but everyone living in the UAE and also all those who are under the threat of the coronavirus around the world.
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