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| Staff Writer |
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Trainer Brad Cox reported yesterday that international fan favourite Kabirkhan's journey to the American starting gate has encountered a setback.
"I wasn't happy with the way he was moving," Cox said. "We sent him to the farm, just give him some time."
Kabirkhan, a colt with modest origins, captured the racing world's attention ahead of the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup. Purchased for just US$12,000 at the 2021 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, this Kentucky-bred son of California Chrome dominated the racing circuits in Kazakhstan and Russia before triumphing in the Gr.1 Al Maktoum Challenge in Dubai.
Despite finishing eighth in the World Cup, Kabirkhan transitioned from Dubai-based trainer Doug Watson to Cox's Churchill Downs operation.
After some downtime at WinStar Farm, Kabirkhan joined Cox in mid-May. However, Cox was dissatisfied with his progress and decided to give the colt more rest before his first stateside workout.
"I talked it over with the owner (Tlek Mukanbetkaliyev), he's all about doing the right thing for the horse," Cox said. "He may return later this summer."
Kabirkhan's potential start in the United States remains uncertain as Mukanbetkaliyev eyes a return to Dubai in the winter. It is still undecided whether Cox will continue as his trainer or if Watson will resume the role.
"I don't know if he would go there under our care or not," Cox said. "He needed some time."