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American Raider Claims World Cup Glory
Hit Show delivered a commanding performance to clinch the US$12 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan, giving Brad Cox his first victory in the prestigious event and providing Qatar's Wathnan Racing with another significant international triumph.
The 5YO son of Candy Ride, expertly guided by Florent Geroux, produced a devastating late surge to overhaul Mixto in the closing stages, with Japanese contender Forever Young finishing a creditable third.
This victory continues Hit Show's impressive form in 2025, following his winning seasonal debut in the Louisiana Stakes Gr.3 at Fair Grounds in January. The consistent American has now amassed over US$8 million in career earnings.
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Race Development Showcases Tactical Brilliance
As the gates crashed open, the twelve-strong field jostled for early position on the Meydan dirt, with Mixto under the legendary Lanfranco Dettori establishing a prominent position. Hit Show settled comfortably in midfield as the race developed, allowing Geroux to bide his time.
The real drama unfolded as the field turned for home, with Mixto still travelling ominously well for trainer Doug O'Neill. Japan's star challenger Forever Young, trained by Yoshito Yahagi and ridden by Ryusei Sakai, began to make eye-catching progress from the rear.
However, it was Hit Show who produced the decisive move, sweeping past rivals with a sustained burst that showcased both his raw ability and remarkable determination. Once hitting the front, the Wathnan Racing colour-bearer maintained his momentum to secure a memorable triumph.
Landmark success for Cox and Wathnan Racing
For Cox, this victory represents another jewel in an increasingly glittering crown. The American handler has established himself among the elite trainers in world racing, and adding the Dubai World Cup to his impressive résumé further enhances his reputation.
"He's a special horse who's really matured with age," beamed Cox post-race. "We've always had tremendous faith in his ability, and today he's proven that on the world stage. The way he settled and then produced that turn of foot was everything we could have hoped for."
The success provides further vindication for Wathnan Racing's significant investment in global bloodstock. Having dominated racing in Qatar and made a substantial impact at Royal Ascot, this Dubai World Cup triumph establishes them firmly on the international stage.
Geroux, celebrating a first Dubai World Cup success, praised his mount's adaptability: "He's so professional now. We had a perfect trip and when I asked him, he just accelerated. Brad had him in peak condition and he showed his class today."
For connections of runner-up Mixto, there was disappointment tinged with pride. Dettori, still seeking an elusive third Dubai World Cup, admitted: "We gave it everything. For a moment I thought we had it, but the winner was too good on the day."
Forever Young's connections expressed satisfaction with their charge's performance, suggesting international campaigns remain on the agenda for the talented Japanese competitor.
As the Dubai World Cup carnival drew to a close, Hit Show's triumph will be remembered as a fitting climax to an exceptional weekend of international racing that once again confirmed Dubai's status as a premier global racing destination.