ITV host Rishi Persad shared his chilling experience of witnessing a missile attack while presenting at a horse racing event in Dubai, UAE. The incident unfolded as cameramen alerted Persad and his co-presenter, Angus McNae, to a red light streaking across the sky followed by explosions.
Despite the unsettling event, Persad continued to carry out his presenting duties as the racing event proceeded. With plans to return home for his wife’s upcoming 50th birthday and to cover the prestigious Cheltenham Festival next week, Persad expressed concern for his family’s worry over his safety amidst the escalating situation in Dubai.
Stranded in the UAE due to flight cancellations amid the conflict, Persad is hopeful to return to the UK as soon as possible after booking a flight for Thursday. The unexpected turn of events occurred during his coverage of the Super Saturday meeting at Meydan racecourse, where he learned of the outbreak of war from fellow presenter Megan Nicholls.
Despite the tension and concern among crew members, the Dubai Racing Club assured the safety of the event and offered accommodations for anyone feeling uneasy. Persad, working through the uncertainty, found reassurance in the presence of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, at the race meeting.
The unfolding events coincided with US President Donald Trump’s announcement of “major combat operations” in Iran, adding to the global tension. Amidst the challenges, Persad remains determined to navigate the situation and return home safely.