Annaf will miss the opportunity to build on his recent triumph in Saudi Arabia during Dubai World Cup Night due to a transportation setback. The five-year-old, trained by Mick Appleby, had a stellar 2023 season, concluding with impressive victories at Doncaster and Ascot. Continuing his form into this season, he came close in the Kachy Stakes before claiming victory in the $2 million Saudi National Bank 1351 Turf Sprint in Riyadh last month.
The progeny of Muhaarar had been poised to pursue an international double in Meydan's Al Quoz Sprint on Saturday. However, having contracted a respiratory illness during the flight to Dubai, he will instead be heading back to Appleby's Oakham base to recuperate and prepare for a domestic campaign focused on Royal Ascot.
Appleby commented: "He fell ill during the flight over, but fortunately, it's not a life-threatening condition, and we anticipate him recovering fully. It's just unfortunate that it has ruled him out of competing."
"It's disappointing, but it's part of the gamble when they're travelling extensively. After returning from Saudi Arabia, he was set to fly out again, so perhaps the back-to-back journeys took a toll on him.
Thankfully, the veterinarians in Dubai are satisfied with his condition, and he should be fit to return home when Roberto Escobarr does.
Our focus now will likely shift to preparing him for Ascot; that's likely to be our primary target."
The prestigious Royal meeting might also be in the plans for Appleby's standout performer, Big Evs, as he gears up for his three-year-old campaign.
The offspring of Blue Point showcased remarkable talent as a juvenile, securing victories in high-calibre two-year-old races domestically. His crowning achievement came at the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint at Santa Anita, marking a memorable day for his connections.
His trainer is determined to keep his top-tier sprinter at the five-furlong distance for the initial phase of the season, which means plans for the Commonwealth Cup will be postponed for now. Nevertheless, he acknowledges that six-furlong races will become a consideration at some point.
Appleby further explained, "He's in excellent shape and has come through the winter exceptionally well. He's nearly at race fitness; we just need to finalize our race plans."