Mickaël Barzalona has won the £6.3 million Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horse race, on Monterosso.

Barzalona was riding in the race for the first time since being officially recruited to the Godolphin team.

He took the lead on Monterosso halfway down the straight and maintained it for the rest of the race. Capponi was second and Planteur third.

On winning the race, Barzalona commented: “I couldn’t believe when no one was coming after me. This is a dream. I have no words to describe what I feel right now.

When asked about the celebration which mirrored the Epsom Derby celebration, he added: “I just had to. I had no choice.”

Horse racing began in the Emirate in October 1981, when the dusty Camel Track hosted the first thoroughbred racemeeting.

Continuing the 14-year horseracing legacy laid down by Nad Al Sheba, the new Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse has set new standards for luxury and propelled UAE’s horseracing scene to greater heights on the global arena.

The Meydan Grandstand is home to 72 luxurious Hospitality suites and offers spectacular views, racing excitement and fine food.

Dubai has emerged as a leading sport tourism destination in recent years with its world class facilities.