Sheikh Mohammed has thrown down the gauntlet to rival owner Michael Tabor for a $12 million match race between star horses Dubai Millennium and Montjeu.
Each man would put up $6 million and the sheikh has suggested one of three possible dates and venues within the next seven weeks.
The challenge has been posted on the website of Godolphin (www.godolphin.com), the sheikh`s racing operation which has dominated international racing in the last five years.
Dubai Millennium, described by the sheikh as the best he has ever owned, won this year`s Dubai World Cup and has been beaten only once in his career.
Montjeu, winner of two Derbys and the Prix de l`Arc de Triomphe in 1999, won last Saturday`s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes at Ascot in highly impressive style.
Future plans for both colts appeared to rule out a clash before they retire to stud but the sheikh`s suggestion of a 10-furlong (2-km) race at either York, Newmarket or Ascot could tempt the Tabor camp.
Sheikh Mohammed says if Dubai Millennium wins, then half the prizemoney would go to a charity of Tabor`s choice.
