ITV host Rishi Persad recently experienced a moment of shock during a horse racing event in Dubai, UAE, when a missile attack occurred. While on air with co-presenter Angus McNae, they observed a red light streaking through the sky followed by explosions, causing a chilling sensation for Persad. Despite the alarming incident, the racing event continued as scheduled.
Persad, 52, plans to return home for his wife’s 50th birthday and fulfill his presenting commitments for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival. Concerned for his family’s safety, he expressed his desire to be by their side, especially during these uncertain times in Dubai. ITV has been informed of the situation.
Originally scheduled to depart from the Middle East on Sunday, Persad encountered flight cancellations due to the ongoing conflict. However, he managed to secure a flight back to the UK on Thursday afternoon with no contingency plan in place. His trip to Dubai was for the Super Saturday event at Meydan racecourse, and he only learned about the war unfolding in the region from a colleague, Megan Nicholls.
While working at the racecourse, news of missile strikes near Dubai landmarks circulated, causing anxiety among the crew. Persad found solace in the presence of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, at the event, which helped alleviate some of the tension. Despite the unsettling events, he remained focused on his presenting duties.
In international news, on February 28th, US President Donald Trump announced the commencement of major military operations in Iran by the US and Israeli forces. Stay updated with the latest news by selecting Daily Mirror as a ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.