Magnitude wins Dubai World Cup, denying Forever Young

The American colt upset the favorite from Japan in the $12 million race.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:03pm

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The American colt Magnitude went straight to the front from the inside post and led all the way to upset the heavily favored Forever Young in the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse on Saturday. Four-year-old Magnitude, ridden by Jose Ortiz for trainer Steve Asmussen, paid $9 after winning his first Group 1 or Grade I race, building on sharp form he showed in recent wins at Churchill Downs and Oaklawn Park.

Why it matters

The Dubai World Cup is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, with a $12 million purse. Magnitude's upset victory over the star Japanese horse Forever Young, who was trying to extend his global dominance, is a significant achievement for the American colt and his connections.

The details

Magnitude went straight to the front from the inside post and led all the way, holding off Forever Young and jockey Ryusei Sakai, who were sent off at 3-5 odds but couldn't catch the front-runner. Magnitude became the 15th U.S.-trained horse to win the Dubai World Cup in its 30-year history, joining an elite list that includes Cigar, Silver Charm, Curlin, Animal Kingdom, California Chrome, and Arrogate.

  • The Dubai World Cup was held on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
  • Magnitude had previously won races at Churchill Downs in Kentucky and Oaklawn Park in Arkansas.

The players

Magnitude

A 4-year-old American colt who upset the heavily favored Forever Young to win the $12 million Dubai World Cup.

Forever Young

A 5-year-old star Japanese horse who was the 3-5 favorite to win the Dubai World Cup, but finished second behind Magnitude.

Jose Ortiz

The jockey who rode Magnitude to victory in the Dubai World Cup.

Steve Asmussen

The trainer of Magnitude, the winning horse in the Dubai World Cup.

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The takeaway

Magnitude's win in the prestigious Dubai World Cup is a major accomplishment for the American horse and a testament to the strength of U.S. thoroughbred racing on the global stage. The upset over the heavily favored Forever Young, who was seeking to add the Dubai title to his recent Breeders' Cup Classic and Saudi Cup victories, underscores Magnitude's impressive form and the depth of talent in American racing.