Imperial Emperor Secures Dubai World Cup Spot with Dominant Al Maktoum Classic Victory
Dubai, March 2, 2025 – Imperial Emperor delivered a resounding performance at Meydan Racecourse on Super Saturday, claiming an emphatic victory in the Al Maktoum Classic (G2) and securing his place in the highly anticipated Dubai World Cup (G1) on April 5.
Trained by Bhupat Seemar, Imperial Emperor made an undeniable statement with a commanding eight-and-a-half-length triumph, further strengthening Seemar’s presence in the Dubai World Cup lineup. The result solidifies the trainer’s three-strong contingent for the race, enhancing his chances on one of the world’s biggest stages in thoroughbred racing.
O’Shea Guides Imperial Emperor to Career-Best Performance
Jockey Tadhg O’Shea, who has now partnered with Imperial Emperor to three consecutive wins, executed a flawless ride, positioning his mount just off the leaders before launching a powerful surge in the final stretch. Stablemate Artorius finished second, while Korean contender Global Hit impressed with a bold front-running display to take third.
An elated O’Shea reflected on the performance, calling it a "dream come true" to qualify for the Dubai World Cup.
“This horse is on the up. I’ve only thrown my leg over him three times, and I’ve won all three,” O’Shea said. “That was probably a career best for him. It was a true run race and there was no hiding place out there. He’s very, very genuine.”
Super Saturday: A Key Dubai World Cup Prep Event
Super Saturday at Meydan serves as the final major qualifier for the Dubai World Cup night on April 5, with several top-class horses using the event as a crucial stepping stone toward the $12 million race.
With Imperial Emperor’s dominant victory and Seemar’s growing presence in the field, the Dubai World Cup is set for a highly competitive renewal, featuring elite contenders from across the globe vying for the sport’s ultimate prize.