Lazzat heads to Meydan on Saturday determined to erase the memory of his narrow Saudi defeat. The French trained sprinter will line up in the Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup night. Connections believe the straight six furlong turf track will play to his strengths and deliver the victory that has eluded him since Royal Ascot.
Lazzat’s Path From Ascot Star To Global Challenger
Lazzat burst onto the international scene in June 2025 when he landed the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot. Trained by Jerome Reynier and ridden by James Doyle for Wathnan Racing, the son of Territories held off a strong Japanese challenge from Satono Reve to score at 9-2.
The win capped an impressive rise for the then four year old. He has since built a fine record with eight victories from 15 starts and career earnings near 3.3 million dollars. Yet wins have been harder to come by in recent months.
After a solid but winless campaign, Lazzat traveled to Riyadh in February 2026 for the Group 2 1351 Turf Sprint on Saudi Cup day. He went down by a neck to American raider Reef Runner. A wide draw forced him to race without cover and cost him valuable ground in the closing stages.
The Riyadh Defeat That Lit The Fire
That near miss left connections hungry for another shot. Richard Brown, racing adviser to Wathnan Racing owners, saw plenty of positives despite the defeat.
“Lazzat is in good form and Jerome and his team seem very happy with him after his run in Saudi, where I thought he ran a nice race,” Brown said. “He was drawn wide there which did not help, so I am sure a return to a straight six at Meydan will be in his favour.”
The horse shipped straight from Riyadh to Dubai and has settled brilliantly. Assistant trainer Nuri Ozdogan reported that Lazzat and stablemate Facteur Cheval both thrive in the desert conditions. Recent trackwork at Meydan showed the five year old in sharp order ahead of his final serious piece before the race.
Why The Straight Meydan Track Suits Him Down To The Ground
Meydan’s Al Quoz Sprint is run over a straight 1200 metres on turf. This layout removes the turning and draw disadvantages Lazzat faced in Riyadh.
Reynier’s charge possesses a strong turn of foot and likes to race prominently or just off the pace. On a straight course he can find his rhythm early and launch his challenge without traffic issues. Doyle knows the horse well and will look to position him ideally in what promises to be a truly run race.
The $1.5 million contest forms a key part of the nine race Dubai World Cup card on March 28. It attracts top sprinters from around the world and has a proud history of delivering fast times and thrilling finishes.
Tough Rivals Line Up For High Class Rematch
Reef Runner returns for the rematch. The American gelding trained by David Fawkes edged Lazzat last time and arrives with strong momentum. Japanese raiders including Pyromancer and Lugal add speed and depth to the field.
Veteran campaigner Khaadem represents Britain and trainer Charlie Hills. The experienced sprinter has quirks but knows how to win big races and cannot be discounted at a venue that often rewards toughness.
Other confirmed or likely runners bring international flavour with entries from the UAE, France and further afield. Post position draw takes place midweek and will add another layer to the tactical puzzle.
Here are key facts about the favourite:
- Five year old bay gelding by Territories out of Lastochka
- Trained in France by Jerome Reynier
- Ridden by James Doyle in major assignments
- Loves to travel and has settled perfectly in Dubai
- Seeks first win since Royal Ascot glory last summer
Wathnan Racing Brings Qatari Ambition To The World Stage
Wathnan Racing continues to make its mark on the global scene. Owned by Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the operation invests heavily in quality bloodstock and top trainers.
Their silks have become familiar at the world’s biggest meetings. Success at Royal Ascot with Lazzat and other stars shows their growing influence. The Dubai trip forms part of a busy international schedule that also includes representation in the main Dubai World Cup race and other features.
Brown highlighted the straightforward preparation. “He went straight to Dubai from Saudi Arabia and enjoys his travelling. Everything has been very straightforward, he has had a good prep and all is good ahead of Saturday.”
James Doyle echoed the confidence in recent comments, expressing hope for revenge against Reef Runner on the big night.
This blend of top class horse, perfect conditions and ambitious owners creates real excitement around Lazzat’s chances.
The Al Quoz Sprint has often showcased the very best in turf sprinting talent. Winners tend to combine raw speed with the ability to handle Meydan’s unique straight and the pressure of a massive international audience. Lazzat ticks those boxes and more after his recent travels.
As the countdown to March 28 continues, all eyes will be on the Wathnan Racing runner. A strong performance would not only deliver a valuable Group 1 prize but also set him up for further targets later in the year.
Horse racing at this level delivers moments that stay with fans long after the race is run. The sight of these magnificent athletes thundering down the straight under the Dubai lights captures the essence of the sport.
What are your thoughts on Lazzat’s chances? Can he gain revenge and return to the winner’s circle? Drop your predictions in the comments below and join the conversation using #DWC26 on social media with friends and fellow racing fans.
