Crowded House: a general 14-1 shot to win the Dubai World Cup

  PICTURE: Martin Lynch  

Velazquez to ride House in Dubai World Cup

TRAINER Brian Meehan has revealed John Velazquez will replace Jamie Spencer aboard Crowded House in the Dubai World Cup at Meydan on March 27.

Crowded House and Jamie Spencer after Racing Post Trophy win

  PICTURE: Mark Cranham  

Spencer has ridden Crowded House in his last five races, which included success in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy in 2008 and a sixth-place finish behind Sea The Stars in the Investec Derby last year, but Meehan thinks Velazquez, who partnered Roses In May to victory in the World Cup in 2005, has the experience that will be crucial in the world's richest race.

Quoted on his website, Meehan said: "This is no reflection on Jamie and he will be riding Crowded House again when he returns to Europe.

"The World Cup is an American-style race run on an American-style track and connections feel that an American [style] jockey would suit him better on this occasion."

British racegoers were treated to Velazquez's skills in the plate when he rode Jealous Again to a memorable success in the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot last year. The Puerto Rican-born jockey can also count the 2007 Belmont Stakes, as well as six Breeders' Cup triumphs among his achievements.

Brian Meehan: "I'm very confident"

  PICTURE: Martin Lynch  

Reflecting on Crowded House's two performances at Meydan this year, when the Rainbow Quest colt finished second both times, Meehan, who saddled David Junior - ridden by Spencer - to win the Dubai Duty Free in 2006, added:"We did say that Crowded House would need both races and we were very pleased with him on each occasion.

"We have had World Cup day as the target all along and we have been very happy with him since his last run. He is working very well and we are very happy with him - we are very confident."

Crowded House is a general 14-1 chance to win the World Cup.