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Andre Fabre Bids for First Dubai World Cup.
Despite an impressive international CV, trainer Andre Fabre has never won the Dubai World Cup and will be looking to add the $12 million dollar contest on Saturday 27 March. This year, he is represented by the Godolphin-owned Magny Cours.
Magny Cours made a winning start to his career in November 2017 with an impressive three length display over 1600m at Chantilly. He was touted as a possible Classic candidate in 2018 before resuming with a disappointing fifth on heavy ground in the G3 Prix La Force (1800m) at Longchamp. The Medaglia d'Oro colt was not seen again until March 2019, when he caught the eye with a third in the G3 Prix Exbury (2000m). Following a gelding operation, Magny Cours produced another big performance to finish second in the Listed Prix du Ranelagh (1600m) in October 2019. It was becoming clear that the four-year-old had ability but reoccurring issues were preventing him from fulfilling full potential.
On his reappearance in 2020, Magny Cours surprised many when overturning favourite Persian King in the Listed Prix de Montretout (1600m) by a short head. He followed up with a second Listed success in the Gala Stakes (2000m) at Sandown Park (UK). Another issue prevented the gelding making Autumn targets and connections were forced to wait for the 2021 season. They were rewarded with an impressive victory in the Prix Darshaan (1900m) at Chantilly on the all-weather on 21 March. Despite his fragility, Magny Cours has demonstrated plenty of ability and it is completely possible that we have yet to see the best of him on the track.
André Fabre acknowledged the difficulties encountered with Magny Cours, remarking, "Yes, he has had his issues. But now he is in perfect condition and form. He had an excellent journey over to Dubai, he drank up, he ate up and everything is going well. He is six now and is just more stabilised in his body."
Magny Cours has been allocated stall twelve for the big race and will be partnered by William Buick, who rode him at Sandown Park last season. Despite his inexperience, the gelding could add a sixth Dubai World Cup for Godolphin and fill the gap in André Fabre's international record.
