ITV host Rishi Persad shared his experience of witnessing a missile attack while covering a horse racing event in Dubai, UAE. Persad recounted the moment when he and co-presenter Angus McNae observed a red light streaking through the sky followed by explosions, sending a chilling sensation down his spine. Despite the unsettling incident, the racing event continued as they fulfilled their presenting duties.

Scheduled to return home for his wife’s 50th birthday and upcoming hosting commitments at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival, Persad expressed concern for his family’s worry over his safety amidst the unforeseen circumstances. Stranded in Dubai due to flight cancellations amid the ongoing conflict, Persad is hopeful to fly back to the UK on Thursday afternoon without a contingency plan in place.

Initially unaware of the conflict, Persad learned about the situation from fellow presenter Megan Nicholls before heading to the racecourse. Despite concerns raised about the event’s safety, authorities reassured the crew that it was secure to proceed. Notably, notable landmarks in Dubai were targeted during the evening, adding to the tension of the situation.

Despite the alarming turn of events, Persad found some reassurance in the presence of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, at the race meeting. His arrival helped alleviate some of the anxiety among the staff amidst the unfolding events. The incident occurred around the time when US President Donald Trump announced major combat operations in Iran, escalating tensions in the region.