Andrew Balding's Jonquil is set to compete in the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, drawing stall nine among a field where many leading contenders received wide draws. Jonquil, last season's Greenham Stakes winner and a strong performer in France and at Goodwood, has been training well at Meydan and is considered one of the favourites for the million-dollar race. Other notable runners include Quddwah, Maljoom, Comanche Brave, and Strauss, all drawn wider, while trainers express optimism despite challenging gate positions. The event highlights the growing prestige and prize money of Middle Eastern horse racing, attracting top talent from around the world.