Venezuelan trainer Jose D’Angelo, based in the United States, is set to pursue his first victory at Dubai World Cup night when he saddles Breeders’ Cup Sprint champion Bentonato in the Grade 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen next Saturday. The Dubai Golden Shaheen represents a significant opportunity for the accomplished trainer to make his mark at one of horse racing’s most prestigious international events.
This marks D’Angelo’s third participation in Dubai racing. He previously finished sixth with Jesus Team in the 2021 Dubai World Cup, while Caramel Chip and Run Classic competed in the 2024 editions of the Godolphin Mile and Dubai Golden Shaheen without achieving top finishes, according to the trainer’s record.
Breeders’ Cup Success Fuels Dubai World Cup Ambitions
The year 2025 has proven remarkable for the Venezuelan trainer, with Bentonato and Chisosespacey capturing a Breeders’ Cup sprint double within less than one hour at Del Mar in November. D’Angelo confirmed that year-long planning contributed to this achievement, noting that both horses competed at multiple tracks, demonstrating their ability to adapt to travel and high-level competition.
The trainer emphasized his desire to secure more victories on the international stage. He stated that he continuously seeks development and competition in the world’s most prominent races, positioning himself as a serious contender in global thoroughbred racing.
Bentonato’s Progression to Elite Status
Bentonato has shown notable development throughout his career. The gelding finished third in the 2024 Saudi Derby (Grade 3) before securing important victories, most prominently in the Gallant Bob Stakes (Grade 2), followed by a second-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint before claiming the title the following year.
D’Angelo explained that the horse possesses exceptional talent and focus. The trainer noted that Bentonato’s loss in Saudi Arabia came over a distance unsuitable for him, expressing confidence in the horse’s ability to deliver strong performance in Saturday’s Dubai World Cup card race.
Direct Qualification Through New Partnership Agreement
Bentonato benefits alongside Forever Young and Ethical Diamond from a new reciprocal agreement between Dubai Racing Club and Breeders’ Cup. This arrangement allows direct qualification through the “Win and You’re In” initiative, strengthening connections between major international racing events.
Additionally, this partnership reflects growing cooperation in global horse racing, providing elite horses with streamlined pathways to compete at championship-level meetings. The agreement enhances the competitive quality of races like the Dubai Golden Shaheen by attracting proven Grade 1 performers.
Strategic Preparations for Dubai Golden Shaheen
D’Angelo expressed hope for victory next Saturday at Dubai World Cup despite strong competition. He confirmed that the starting gate position will be an important factor, stating his preference for breaking from outside gates that may offer tactical advantages in the sprint race.
Meanwhile, the trainer arrived in Dubai early to monitor Bentonato’s training sessions. He expressed satisfaction with being present in the emirate and indicated that ownership connections would join before the anticipated race.
However, D’Angelo acknowledged the quality of competition facing his charge. Bentonato currently ranks among the most prominent horses participating in Dubai, carrying significant aspirations for his trainer to achieve a breakthrough at one of the world’s most important horse racing evenings.
The outcome of Saturday’s Dubai Golden Shaheen will determine whether D’Angelo can translate his Breeders’ Cup success into international victory. All eyes will be on Bentonato’s performance as post positions are drawn and final preparations continue ahead of the race.
