Inamorato will be strongly favored to win the fourth Group II UAE Derby for Godolphin in as many years. The 3-year-old's performance will be measured with his potential for the Kentucky Derby (gr. I).Inamorato burst onto the scene scoring a runaway win over Victory Moon in the Al Bastakiya over 1,800 meters on March 8, only his second run after defeating Outta Here as a maiden on the turf at Hollywood Park in July.Inamorato was too good for Victory Moon, a previous winner of the Group III UAE 2000 Guineas, and while he was in receipt of 6 1/2 kilograms there, he is again conceded four kilograms here.Godolphin has made no secret of their desire to win the Kentucky Derby. However their three attempts have all been unsuccessful. All three were previous UAE Derby winners – China Visit, Express Tour and Essence Of Dubai.Frankie Dettori chose Inamorato to ride over Godolphin's four other runners.Victory Moon, from the stable of Mike de Kock, has continued to impress and while he does have to find a bit more against Inamorato, the step up to 2,000 meters will suit him.A strong international contingent has arrived for the world's richest Derby, many bred in the Southern Hemisphere meaning they have to concede the Northern hemisphere-breds four kilograms.
Many have strong form in their native countries. Baccarat, Byzantium and Hard Buck are among the best of their generation in Brazil while Peasant has proven his quality in Argentina.