Lippo De Carrere claimed victory in the UAE President’s Cup – UK Arabian Derby (Group 1 PA), held at Doncaster Racecourse on Saturday. The race took place during the St. Leger Festival and drew nearly 30,000 spectators.
The race marked the 13th round of the 32nd UAE President’s Cup Series and reaffirmed its place as a key event in international Arabian horse racing. Run over 2,000 metres on turf, the event is the richest Arabian race in Britain and Europe, with a prize purse of £400,000.
Trained by Alban de Mieulle and ridden by Mickaël Barzalona, Lippo De Carrere (Al Mourtajez x Elmanara De Carrere) showed a strong finish in the final stages to secure his first Group 1 PA title. Representing Wathnan Racing, the four-year-old colt crossed the line in 2:20:02, winning by half a length.
Wathnan Racing also took second place with Moneer (Al Mourtajez x Muneera), trained by Damien de Watrigant and ridden by Jean-Bernard Eyquem. Shaihaan (Al Mourtajez x Al Dowha), representing Al Shaqab Racing, finished third under jockey Tom Marquand and trainer François Rohaut.
The Doncaster win marked Lippo De Carrere’s fourth career victory in seven starts. Earlier this season, he had placed second in the French Arabian Derby at Chantilly.
The event was attended by senior UAE officials, including H.E. Aref Hamad Al Awani, Member of the Higher Organising Committee of the UAE President’s Cup Series; Mr. Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary General of the Committee; and Mr. Saud Badr Al Tonaiji, Representative of the UAE Embassy in London.
Matar Al Yabhouni Al Daheri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, said: “We are proud of the outstanding achievements witnessed in Doncaster. The race reflected the distinguished stature of the UAE President’s Cup, showcased within the world-renowned St. Leger Festival and the UK Arabian Derby. The tremendous turnout and strong reception from racecourses, owners, and media reaffirm the historical significance and leadership of the Cup on the global stage. We remain committed to ensuring the Cup achieves its noble objectives through its global journey, supporting Arabian horse owners and breeders worldwide.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
