Godolphin ready for big night in Dubai World Cup

Godolphin trainers Saeed bin Suroor and Mahmood Al Zarooni have high hopes for Dubai World Cup night on Saturday.

Bin Suroor rates African Story as his most likely source of a winner in the Godolphin Mile, while Al Zarooni reckons Opinion Poll will be difficult to beat in the Dubai Gold Cup.

“For my best chance, I would have to say African Story,” said Bin Suroor.

“He won really well last time and is going really well in his work.

“Fox Hunt is doing really well, and, on breeding, I think he should stay the longer trip in the Gold Cup.

“Physically he is improving all the time and I’m sure two miles will suit him.

“My Golden Shaheen horse, Soul, was only 85% fit last time and came back healthy and sound. I think six furlongs will suit him.

“As for Delegator (Dubai Duty Free), I would like to see him sit in behind and get relaxed.

“He won a Group Two over six furlongs at York but we’re trying nine furlongs.

“If he can settle he has a nice turn of foot for the finish.

“Prince Bishop has made improvement physically, but from his outside post (12) in the World Cup it will be difficult for him.

“Mendip also runs in the World Cup and is doing good.

“Last time he was sweating and got upset and didn’t behave well – although he seems more relaxed now.”

Al Zarooni saddles Monterosso in the World Cup, and said: “He needed his comeback run and has come out of that really well.

“I cannot say he’s a better horse than when he ran in the race before, but if they go fast it will be in his favour.

“In the Derby we have Falls Of Lora and Kinglet, but this is a very competitive race – it will not be easy for them.

“City Style is my runner in the Duty Free, but that also looks tough.

“Capponi showed very big improvement last time. He’s a front-runner and that is why I have booked Ahmed (Ajtebi) for him as he’s a very good jockey riding from the front.

“However, I think Opinion Poll has a great chance in the Gold Cup and is my best of the night.

“When he finished second to Fox Hunt, Frankie Dettori jumped off (Fox Hunt) and said next time he wanted to be on Opinion Poll.

“He’s won two Group Twos on him in the UK.”