Curlin starts this afternoon (actually 9:30pm Dubai local time) in the 13th Dubai World Cup, and installed as the 2-5 morning-line favorite, should have little trouble following in the footsteps of previous US-based runners Cigar, Silver Charm, Captain Steve, Pleasantly Perfect, Roses in May and Invasor.

Rather, much of the wagering across the pond concerning the $6 million race is over the prospects of Curlin establishing a new track record in the process, which currently belongs to Dubai Millenium (1:59.50).

To complete the exacta, it figures between Vermillion, Jalil and Asiatic Boy. Of these, Vermillion will be the longest price, and certainly boasts the credentials having already bankrolled $6.6 million in earnings. He looked razor-sharp in taking the February Stakes last out, and should improve off a fourth-place showing in this race last year.

Jalil has bested Gloria de Campeao in his last pair (who stands an outsider in this group) although a pair of victories by the Godolphin runner at this distance do lend credence to the cause. Asiatic Boy disappointed last out, but is reportedly wound tighter for this try.

Taking a brief look at the remaining World Cup races from the desert:

Godolphin Mile: Elusive Warning figures tough at a short price, with Aleutian, Blackat Blackitten and Diamond Stripes chasing him home.

UAE Derby: Cocoa Beach rates the call to defeat the boys off an effortless victory last out. Numaany and stablemates Royal Vintage and Honour Devil round out the placing, although American Massive Drama has been earning very high marks in the lead up.

Golden Shaheen: Barbecue Eddie is explosively fast, and seems to be reaching his best form currently with runner-up finishes to In Summation in a pair of recent California graded stakes tries. Favorites Benny the Bull and Diabolical must also be included.

Duty Free: Admire Moon won this race last year, and the choice this time around goes to Admire Aura despite the fact he may want more ground. Literato, Floral Pegasus and Creachadoir fill the ticket.

Sheema Classic: Viva Pataca need only maintain recent form to be a major player, with Youmzain, Doctor Dino and Sushisan also possible.