Renowned Owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Passes Away

Karl Burke, a prominent trainer, has expressed his condolences following the passing of esteemed owner and breeder Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, who sadly died on Monday. Sheikh Mohammed Obaid was a notable figure in British horse racing since the early 1990s, with his distinctive yellow and black silks being carried to victory by numerous high-profile horses, including High-Rise, who won the 1998 Derby under the guidance of trainer Luca Cumani. Other notable winners include Postponed, Rosallion, Inisherin, and Royal Champion, showcasing his impressive portfolio of racing successes. Burke, who trained Royal Champion to win the Bahrain International Trophy last month, also trains several promising horses for the late owner, including the unbeaten Zeus Olympios and Cambridgeshire winner Boiling Point. In a statement, Burke said, 'It's devastating news, as I had spoken to him earlier today, discussing plans for the upcoming season.' He added, 'I owe him a great deal, as he entrusted me with the responsibility of training many exceptional horses for him.' Sheikh Mohammed Obaid also owned the 2023 Melbourne Cup winner Without A Fight and the undefeated Royal Lodge Stakes winner Bow Echo, a leading contender for the 2000 Guineas. As a cousin of Sheikh Mohammed and a member of Dubai's ruling family, Sheikh Obaid leaves a lasting legacy in the world of bloodstock, particularly through his mare Zomaradah, a Classic winner and the dam of the champion sire Dubawi.