Country Grammer rallies to win Dubai World Cup

Country Grammer followed up a strong second in the $20 million Saudi Cup with a upset win in the $12 million Dubai World Cup for embattled trainer Bob Baffert. Country Grammer, who won by 1 3/4 lengths, was ridden by the decorated European jockey Frankie Dettori.

Defeated in fourth was 2-5 favorite Life Is Good, the Pegasus World Cup winner who was formerly trained by Baffert. Life Is Good led from the outset in a measured pace, but clearly did not stay the 1 1/4-mile distance. Hot Rod Charlie, who appeared to be dropping out of the race on the far turn, re-rallied up the rail to gain second over last year's World Cup runner-up, the Japanese horse Chuwa Wizard.

Country Grammer went off at 9-1 in the international wagering. He raced in the silks of Amr Zedan, who owns the 5-year-old son of Tonalist with WinStar Farm and Commonwealth Thoroughbreds. Zedan owned the late Medina Spirit, also trained by Baffert, who recently was disqualified from his 2021 Kentucky Derby victory as a result of a post-race positive for the regulated medication betamethasone.

A complete report on the Dubai World Cup will appear shortly on drf.com.