Let’s take a break from sorting out the leading Kentucky Derby (G1) contenders and look at the likely field for the $12 million Dubai World Cup (G1) — it’s pretty strong.

The 28^th running of the 1 ¼-mile race at Meydan Racecourse on March 30 is set to feature a rematch between $20 million Saudi Cup (G1) winner Senor Buscador and runner-up Ushba Tesoro.

The Dubai Racing Club announced a likely field of 13 for one of the world’s richest dirt races, including five U.S.-based horses, four from Japan, and three based in Dubai.

Senor Buscador, who edged Japan bred Ushba Tesoro, by a head in Riyadh, leads the American contingent, which includes Santa Anita Handicap (G1) winner Newgate,  five-time graded stakes winner Newgrange, Crupi (third in the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational), and Clapton, third in the Al Maktoum Classic (G2).

The top-two finishers in Saudi Arabia are set for a Dubai rematch

Dubai Sheema led by Auguste Rodin

The $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) on the turf has a likely field of 12, including Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) winners Auguste Rodin (2024) and Rebel’s Romance (2022). There are no U.S.-based horses on the list.

Forever Young among UAE Derby runners

Then again, there is a Derby points qualifier on the card – the $1 million UAE Derby (G2) featuring Forever Young, winner of the Saudi Derby and being pointed to the Kentucky Derby on May 4. The 1,900-meter (1.18-mile) race offers qualifying points of 100-50-25-15-10 to the first five finishers.

The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.