Curlin came into the race as the strong favourite for victory

Odds-on favourite Curlin blitzed the rest of the field to win the Dubai World Cup, the world's richest race.

The US Horse of the Year, ridden by Robby Albarado, was up with the pace from the start and accelerated superbly when called on for an effort.

He kicked well clear of Asiatic Boy and Well Armed after they turned into the home straight.

With the �3m-race won, Albrado urged his mount on again to the line as they claimed a comfortable victory.

It added to his success in the Breeders Cup Classic in Monmouth Park last year and he is now the favourite to retain his title later this year.

"He's such an amazing horse and I'm proud to be around him," said Albarado. "It went as well as expected - I was just a passenger, I just get all the glory.

"This is an unbelievable experience and I can't explain it. This is at the very top of the list."

The Godolphin challenger Jalil, ridden by Frankie Dettori, was never in contention while Japanese raider Vermilion also struggled.

Elsewhere on the card, South African trainer Mike de Kock recorded a double - Honour Devil, ridden by Johnny Murtagh beat stablemate Royal Vintage to win the UAE Derby while Sun Classique, under Kevin Shea, took the Sheema Classic.

Dubai World Cup
1. Curlin (R Albarado) 4-11 Fav
2. Asiatic Boy (J P Murtagh) 10-1
3. Well Armed (A Gryder) 66-1
12 ran