Suraj Narredu Creates History at Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Ascot
The Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup at Ascot Racecourse became the stage for an unforgettable moment in horse racing history. Indian jockey Suraj Narredu rode to victory for Team Asia, making him the first Indian jockey to win at this prestigious British venue.
This was more than just a win. It was the story of a dream fulfilled, a promise kept, and a leap into history. The Shergar Cup is known for its global team format, where elite jockeys from around the world compete not just for themselves, but for their teams. With sponsorship from Dubai Duty Free, the event connects the UAE to one of the world’s most celebrated racing competitions.
Suraj Narredu’s Journey to the World Stage
Suraj Narredu is already a champion in India. With over 2,400 wins at home, he is one of the most successful jockeys in the country. Yet, the chance to race at Ascot had always been a dream.
When he was chosen for Team Asia in this year’s Shergar Cup, he saw it as a chance to prove himself against some of the best riders in the world. It was also a chance to represent India on a global platform.
Narredu arrived at Ascot with focus and determination. He carried with him years of hard work and the hopes of the Indian racing community.
A Promise to Honour Frankie Dettori
Before the event, Narredu made a promise. If he won, he would perform the famous ‘Flying Dismount’, just like Frankie Dettori. Dettori, an Italian legend of horse racing, became famous for this celebration after his wins, especially his historic “Magnificent Seven” at Ascot in 1996.
As a young boy in India, Narredu had watched Dettori’s achievements on an old VHS tape. That video inspired him to become a jockey. Performing the same celebration at Ascot would be a way to thank his idol and honour the inspiration that shaped his career.
The Race That Changed Everything
On race day, Narredu rode with precision and confidence. He stayed patient during the early stages, positioning his horse perfectly. In the final stretch, he pushed forward with strength and perfect timing. The crowd roared as he crossed the finish line first.
It was a win that meant more than points. It was a personal milestone and a proud moment for Indian horse racing.
After the win, Narredu kept his promise. He leapt off his horse in a perfect flying dismount. The crowd loved it, and cameras captured the moment that will remain part of Shergar Cup history.
Dubai Duty Free’s Role in the Shergar Cup
The Shergar Cup’s success and global reach are made possible through the sponsorship of Dubai Duty Free. This UAE-based company has supported the event for many years, helping it attract top riders from every continent.
Dubai Duty Free’s involvement is also part of the UAE’s bigger role in international horse racing. The country hosts major events like the Dubai World Cup and supports competitions that bring together riders and fans from across the globe.
For Narredu, winning an event sponsored by a UAE company adds another layer of pride, connecting his personal victory to a region known for its love of horse racing.
Team Asia Takes the Trophy
The Shergar Cup is not a normal race day. Instead of focusing on individual wins alone, the event is a points-based competition between four teams: Asia, Europe, Great Britain & Ireland, and Rest of the World. Points are given for finishing positions in each race.
This year, Team Asia won with 68 points, narrowly beating Europe with 67 points. Great Britain & Ireland finished third with 62 points, while Rest of the World ended with 55 points.
Narredu’s win was a key part of Team Asia’s overall victory. Every point mattered, and his performance helped secure the trophy for his team.
Individual Achievements – The Silver Saddle Standings
Apart from the team prize, the Shergar Cup also awards the Alistair Haggis Silver Saddle to the best individual jockey of the day. This year, Hugh Bowman from Rest of the World won the title with 32 points
The final standings were
- Hugh Bowman (Rest of the World) – 32 points
- Per-Anders Graberg (Europe) – 26 points
- Ryusei Sakai (Asia) – 25 points
- Robbie Dolan (Great Britain & Ireland) – 25 points
- Hollie Doyle (Great Britain & Ireland) – 24 points
- Suraj Narredu (Asia) – 23 points
- Delphine Santiago (Europe) – 22 points
- Karis Teetan (Rest of the World) – 20 points
- Mirai Iwata (Asia) – 20 points
- Dario Di Tocco (Europe) – 19 points
- Joanna Mason (Great Britain & Ireland) – 13 points
- Katie Davis (Rest of the World) – 3 points
Although Narredu did not win the Silver Saddle, his performance was one of the most talked-about moments of the day.
A Victory That Inspires
The win has already been called a turning point for Indian horse racing. Narredu’s success shows that riders from India can compete and win against the world’s best. It could inspire young jockeys at home to aim for international opportunities.
The flying dismount, shared widely on social media, has also helped spread the story beyond racing fans. It has captured the imagination of people who may never have watched a horse race before.
For Narredu, the hope is that this moment will lead to more invitations to ride abroad, giving him more chances to represent his country.
The UAE’s Global Sporting Vision
This win also reflects the UAE’s commitment to global sports. Through companies like Dubai Duty Free, the UAE continues to promote events that connect cultures and showcase international talent.
In horse racing, the UAE has built a reputation as a world leader. By sponsoring events like the Shergar Cup, the country strengthens its ties to top venues like Ascot while giving riders from all over the world a platform to shine.
