The $1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup is set for 7 February
PARTNER CONTENT: Abu Dhabi Turf Club is set to make history with the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup on 7 February 2026, introducing a world-class Listed Thoroughbred race with a USD $1,000,000 prize; the first time Abu Dhabi enters the international Thoroughbred stage at this elite level.
While the Gold Cup is a permanent fixture of the Club’s seasonal calendar, this year marks a defining milestone as the event introduces a new world-class Listed Thoroughbred race.
This development signifies the first time Abu Dhabi has entered the international Thoroughbred market at this level of global exposure.
The landmark race of the day is the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, a Thoroughbred Listed race featuring a prestigious USD $1,000,000 prize purse, making it one of the world’s most valuable Listed Thoroughbred races.
The feature race has attracted a high-calibre list of international nominations, including: Strauss (Trainer: Ryo Takei), Witness Stand (Trainers: Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole), Holloway Boy (Trainer: Karl Burke), Quddwah (Trainers: Simon & Ed Crisford), Comanche Brave (Trainer: Donnacha O’Brien), Maljoom (Trainer: Michael Costa) and Jonquil (Trainer: Andrew Balding).
The winner of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup will receive a USD $1,000,000 share of the total purse and secure an automatic berth to the USD $1 million Grade 1 Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby Day, further reinforcing the race’s international significance.
Demonstrating a long-term commitment to the sport, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and ADNOC have signed a strategic three-year partnership, naming ADNOC as the official sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup for three consecutive editions from 2026 to 2028, and Presenting Partner of race 7, the USD $1 million race.
Etihad also joins as an official sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup 2026 and serves as the Presenting Partner of race 1.
His Excellency Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and President of the Organising Committee, commented: “The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup is a testament to the emirate’s evolution as a world-class sporting destination. By introducing a million-dollar Listed Thoroughbred race to our historic program, we are creating a global platform that merges our deep-rooted equestrian traditions with international excellence.
“This event offers an unparalleled experience where elite sport meets premium lifestyle, and we are proud to welcome the world to witness this new chapter in Abu Dhabi’s racing legacy.”
The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup is open to elite performers, with eligibility restricted to horses rated 95 and above.
The race is open to Thoroughbreds aged four and above, as well as three-year-olds, with a 2kg allowance for fillies and mares, ensuring a highly competitive field.
The supporting seven-race programme rings together elite Thoroughbreds and Arabian Purebreds, bridging the UAE’s rich equestrian heritage with its ambitions on the global racing stage.
Supporting races include: Group 1 Alanudd Classic (2,200m), Group 2 Liwa Oasis Stakes (1,400m), First leg of the Listed Arabian Triple Crown (1,600m) for four-year-old Arabian Purebreds, Listed Abu Dhabi Thoroughbred Championship (2,400m) and a 2,200m Thoroughbred handicap and a dedicated Arabian Purebred handicap.
The winner of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup will be presented with a bespoke trophy created by Garrard, the world’s oldest jeweller and a heritage British brand renowned for crafting some of the world’s most iconic sporting trophies.
Designed exclusively for the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, the trophy draws inspiration from Emirati heritage, incorporating Ghaf tree motifs, traditional Al Sadu patterns, and equestrian symbolism.
More than a prize, the trophy stands as a powerful symbol of prestige, craftsmanship, and legacy, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to establish a new global icon on the international racing stage.
Beyond racing, guests can enjoy a premium lifestyle experience at the newly renovated Abu Dhabi Turf Club.
Highlights include Michelin-star dining by Hakkasan, diverse food and beverage offerings across the venue, live entertainment, including a jazz band, acrobatic performances, a ‘Best Dressed’ competition, family-friendly activations, and an after-party headlined by DJ Bliss, delivering a race-day experience that reflects Abu Dhabi’s position on the global sporting stage.
Discount for Yalla Readers: You can enjoy an exclusive 30 per cent off their tickets using the code Yalla30, perfect for making your Garden experience even more enjoyable.
7 February 2026, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. For further information, visit abudhabiturfclub.platinumlist.net
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