I am pleased to welcome you to Nad Al Sheba Racecourse and to the UAE to enjoy the 14th edition of the Dubai World Cup (DWC), which will be the final race to be held on this track.

Since its inception in 1996, the DWC has established itself as the foremost event on the global racing calendar. Throughout this period, we have witnessed some of the finest horses competing here at the DWC, representing 28 countries from all over the world, including the US, Europe, Southern Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

The 2008 DWC saw the American colt, Curlin, take his place alongside previous winners on the honours list, including the race's inaugural champion Cigar. We look forward to seeing new entries on this list.

As we are preparing to bid farewell to a racecourse that has witnessed such great achievements, and produced so many lasting memories, this evening's world cup race will be the last before we move to the new racetrack; this too will be part of history.

And, as we say goodbye to this great era, we look forward to the next phase at the new racecourse, and hosting the 2010 DWC at Meydan Racecourse.

Since we announced the launch of Meydan to the world on the eve of the 2007 DWC, we have taken giant steps to draw and shape the future of global racing events. We look forward to inaugurating, what we believe will be the most prominent racing landmark, not only regionally, but also internationally.

In conclusion, I would like to wish all the participants, owners, trainers and riders good luck and success, and hope that all will enjoy the excitement at Nad Al Sheba.