Australian trainer Michael Costa is leaving Dubai to return to Queensland, citing the recent missile attacks as a factor in his decision. Costa, who moved his family to the UAE in 2022 to become private trainer to Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum at Jebel Ali Stables, announced his departure ahead of the Dubai World Cup meeting on Saturday.
Costa detailed the terrifying experience of sheltering with his family during the Iranian missile strikes three weeks ago. 'It has all been a bit blurry, we didn't get much sleep the first night at all,' he told Racenet. 'There were hundreds of missiles and drones and the major issue was the debris falling all around. We have had all the family together in the villa and we have been all sleeping in the one room.'
The UAE defence system intercepted over 350 missiles and 1,806 drones during the attacks, but the Dubai World Cup meeting will proceed as scheduled at Meydan. Costa has three runners at the meeting, with Midland Money his leading chance in the £1.4 million Golden Shaheen.
In a statement, Costa expressed gratitude for his time in Dubai: 'I have loved every minute of my time at Jebel Ali Stables. To be entrusted with training for His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been the greatest honour of my career.' He added that he plans to source elite Australian speed and compete at the highest level in Australia, as well as in Dubai and Royal Ascot.
