In a moment that had been decades in the making, Godolphin — the global racing behemoth founded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai — finally claimed its elusive first Kentucky Derby (G1) crown at Churchill Downs on Saturday with homebred colt Sovereignty.

After thirteen years of heartbreak and near-misses, the Dubai-based powerhouse, established in 1992, broke through in emphatic fashion. Sovereignty, ridden with cool precision by Junior Alvarado, surged down a rain-drenched stretch to clinch victory in 2:02.31 over the classic 1¼-mile distance.

The win marked a monumental milestone for Sheikh Mohammed, whose ambitious vision turned Godolphin into a titan on the world racing stage. Despite dominating nearly every major international event, the Kentucky Derby — America`s most cherished race — had always remained just out of reach. Until now.

Bill Mott, who famously won the inaugural Dubai World Cup in 1996 with the legendary Cigar, finally notched a Kentucky Derby win without the asterisk of controversy. His previous Derby triumph in 2019 came via the disqualification of Maximum Security.

“He made up a lot of ground in a hurry,” Mott said of Sovereignty. “This one got here the right way. He`s a great horse, and he comes from a great organization. I can`t say enough about the people at Godolphin who brought him up the right way.”

For Alvarado, it was just his second Derby mount — and a dream fulfilled. Fighting back tears, he said, “It`s the kind of moment you grow up imagining. I`m just grateful to be part of this journey.”

Race favourite Journalism, under Umberto Rispoli, loomed late but couldn`t match Sovereignty`s decisive kick. Baeza (Flavien Prat) took third, followed by Final Gambit and Owen Almighty.

Triple Crown of a Different Kind

Godolphin`s celebration extended far beyond Louisville. Just a day earlier, their unbeaten filly Good Cheer stormed home to win the Kentucky Oaks, while across the Atlantic at Newmarket, the Charlie Appleby-trained Ruling Court triumphed in the 2,000 Guineas, completing a rare and resounding international Group 1 treble.

Sovereignty`s victory also added further gloss to the legacy of Into Mischief, affirming his status as one of modern racing`s most influential sires.

With over $5.3 million in earnings this year — triple the total of their nearest rivals — Godolphin continues to reign supreme in North American racing.

As the rain clouds began to part over Churchill Downs, Sovereignty was led into the winner`s circle draped in the iconic garland of roses — not merely a victor, but a testament to Sheikh Mohammed`s enduring pursuit of excellence, patience, and global ambition.



Kentucky Derby 2025 – At a Glance

?? Winner: Sovereignty
?? Jockey: Junior Alvarado
?? Trainer: Bill Mott
?? Owner/Breeder: Godolphin (Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum)
?? 2nd Place: Journalism (Umberto Rispoli)
?? 3rd Place: Baeza (Flavien Prat)
??? Track Condition: Sloppy (wet dirt)
?? Final Time: 2:02.31
?? Winning Margin: 1½ lengths


Courtesy: Leslie Wilson Junior
Khaleej Times