The road to the Dubai World Cup heats up on Emirates Super Saturday, March 1, at Meydan Racecourse, where top contenders will battle for coveted spots on Dubai World Cup night, April 5.

With six of the nine races offering automatic qualification, anticipation is high—especially for the G2 Al Maktoum Classic (sponsored by Emirates Airline), a key stepping stone over 2000 meters on dirt.

Kabirkhan Aims to Bounce Back

A full field of 16 runners is set, including G1 winner Kabirkhan, looking to rebound from a disappointing seventh in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge last time out. Trainer Doug Watson remains optimistic:

“We thought he was in good shape after a long layoff, but he didn’t handle the kickback well. The wide draw (9) should help, and I think he’ll put in a strong performance.”

Trainer Bhupat Seemar saddles Imperial Emperor, runner-up in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge ahead of Kabirkhan.

 “He’s been consistent—two wins and a Group 1 second. With no Walk Of Stars in this field, he has a good chance, though Kabirkhan is still a serious rival.”

Seemar also sends out Artorius (fourth in the G3 Firebreak Stakes) and Guns And Glory, a track record-setter last time out.

 “Artorius is improving and should relish the extra distance, especially with first-time blinkers. Guns And Glory steps up in class, but he’s earned his shot.”

Nations Pride Leads the Charge in G2 Singspiel Stakes

The G2 Singspiel Stakes (sponsored by Emirates Airline) grants the winner a spot in the G1 Dubai Turf. The race features four-time G1 winner Nations Pride, returning from a ninth-place finish in the G1 Pegasus Turf in Florida.

Trainer Charlie Appleby, a two-time winner of this race, is confident:

“He ran well over this course and trip in the Dubai Turf two years ago and had a strong U.S. campaign last year. He’s a major contender if he’s back to his best.”

Appleby also runs First Conquest, unbeaten at Meydan.

“He’s progressing well and deserves this step up in class.”

Meanwhile, UK-trained Cairo, second in the G2 Al Rashidiya and G3 Dubai Millennium Stakes, continues his solid Carnival run.

Trainer Alice Haynes believes the return to nine furlongs could work in his favor:

“He’s thriving in Dubai and full of confidence. The slight drop in distance could play to his strengths.”

Tuz Chasing UAE Sprinting History

In the G3 Mahab Al Shimaal, Tuz could make UAE racing history by becoming the first horse to sweep all four UAE Group-level dirt sprints in a single season.

Trainer Bhupat Seemar is eager to see if his G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen winner can extend his streak:

 “He’s been on a roll, so we’ll keep him going. No horse has won all these sprints in one season before.”

Japanese Contenders Eye Super Saturday Glory

Japan last triumphed on Super Saturday in 2010 and looks to end that drought with T O Saint Denis in the G3 Burj Nahar. Trainer Daisuke Takayanagi is optimistic:

 “He’s traveled well and settled in nicely. We hope he can earn a spot on Dubai World Cup night.”

Japanese sprinter American Stage also makes his international debut in the G3 Mahab Al Shimaal.

Yoshito Yahagi’s stable representative, Yukihiko Araki, is hopeful:

“It’s a big test for a three-year-old to travel this early in the year, but we believe in his potential.”

Godolphin’s Strong Hand in Dubai City of Gold

The G2 Dubai City of Gold (sponsored by Emirates Airline) serves as a launchpad for the G1 Dubai Sheema Classic. Godolphin fields three runners, including Silver Knott and Arabian Crown.

Appleby on Silver Knott:

“He ran consistently well in the U.S. last year and should be very competitive over this trip.”

On Arabian Crown, who makes his seasonal return:

 “He had a setback last summer, but we’ve given him time. He’ll improve off this run.”

Among the British challengers is Highway Robber, a U.S. recruit for Charlie Hills, and Onesmoothoperator, dropping in trip after a G3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy third-place finish.

Speedsters Set for Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint

The G3 Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint (sponsored by Emirates SkyCargo) sees defending champion Frost At Dawn face West Acre, last seen dominating the G2 Blue Point Sprint for trainer George Scott.

“He’s in top form, and we’re hopeful he can maintain his momentum,” said Scott.

The race also features Dubai debutant Kylian for Archie Watson and Jakajaro, representing the Hay family.

“Jakajaro was too keen last time, but we’ll ride him differently. He’s a genuine type with more to offer,” said Racing Manager Alex Cole.

Spain vs. Godolphin in Jumeirah 1000 Guineas

The Listed Jumeirah 1000 Guineas (sponsored by Emirates Skywards) sees a rematch between Mountain Breeze and Octans, first and second in the Mawj Stakes.

Spanish Champion Trainer Guillermo Arizkorreta acknowledges the challenge:

“Octans ran well on her Dubai debut, but Mountain Breeze will be tough to beat.”

Appleby, who trains Mountain Breeze, remains confident:“

She’s improved since her seasonal debut and is the one to beat.”

In the Listed Jumeirah 2000 Guineas, Appleby fields Ruling Court and Hallasan, with Ruling Court being aimed at either the Guineas or Derby.

“His performance here will help us decide his Classic path,” said Appleby.

Super Saturday Kicks Off with Arabian Racing

The day begins at 5:30 PM UAE time with the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge Round 3 (sponsored by Arabian Adventures) for Purebred Arabians, where Unleashed looks to build on his Round 2 success.