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