ERA announces online sales as middle-east conflict rages
Tattersalls Online and the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA) have announced a second online horses-in-training auction, reinforcing the United Arab Emirates’ growing role in digital bloodstock sales ahead of the Dubai World Cup.
The auction, to be hosted entirely online, will run from March 26 to April 1 and feature 195 lots, including 172 UAE-based thoroughbreds and 23 Purebred Arabians. The sale replaces the traditional live end-of-season auction typically staged around Dubai World Cup week, signalling a continued shift toward global, remote participation.
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This decision was also undoubtedly influenced by the ongoing conflict in the middle-east which has seen several race meetings in Dubai postponed after nearby missile strikes, with the Dubai World Cup itself in some doubt, given it is scheduled for Saturday.
Buyers from around the world will be able to bid under ERA conditions via the Tattersalls Online platform, expanding access to UAE racing stock beyond on-course attendees.
Among the headline entries is Imperial Emperor, a Dubai World Cup contender trained by Bhupat Seemar, alongside consignments from leading operations including Godolphin and Salem bin Ghadayer.
The initiative highlights the UAE’s push to modernise its racing industry, with online sales offering greater international reach and flexibility for buyers and vendors alike.
