Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The UAE has unveiled the largest-ever global agenda for the 33rd edition of the President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, with a 19-race international circuit across four continents and total prize money exceeding Dh20 million, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
The Higher Organising Committee announced the calendar on Thursday, reinforcing the stature of the series as the most prestigious and valuable programme in Arabian horse racing.
The expansion builds on the success of the 2025 edition, which attracted 354 runners and more than 400,000 spectators at leading racecourses worldwide, alongside a digital reach exceeding 500 million views.
Established in 1994 in line with the vision of the late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the President’s Cup has evolved into a flagship international platform dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Purebred Arabian horse while strengthening the UAE’s presence in the global equestrian landscape.
The season this year will begin in Tunisia on April 19 before moving to the United States for a race at Churchill Downs on April 30. The European leg follows with France on May 10, ahead of further stops in Sweden, Italy and Morocco through June.
Germany and the Netherlands host races in July, while the United Kingdom joins the calendar with a debut fixture at Newbury on August 14, followed by Spain a day later.
Belgium, Türkiye and Russia feature in September, alongside another British stop at Doncaster Racecourse on September 12, before Poland closes the European segment later that month.
The series then shifts to the Arab region, adding a new station in Syria on October 9, followed by Libya and Egypt, before culminating in the final leg in Saudi Arabia on November 20.
Matar Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, said the continued support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zyed has been central to the Cup’s global reach.
“The support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed has made this Cup a bridge between the UAE and the world. We are implementing a global strategy to elevate the value of the Purebred Arabian horse across four continents, and reaching 19 stations is a testament to this leadership,” he said.
Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the series, described the new season as a milestone in its development. “The 33rd edition represents a historic turning point. By partnering with iconic venues like Longchamp, Churchill Downs, and Doncaster, the Cup has become the premier strategic partner for the world’s greatest racing festivals. We are proud to present the strongest and most expensive series in the history of Arabian horse racing,” he said.
Over more than three decades, the President’s Cup has played a central role in promoting Arabian racing internationally, providing a competitive platform for owners and breeders while reinforcing the cultural legacy associated with the breed.
The expanded calendar reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to supporting the sport’s growth and deepening its ties with established and emerging racing nations alike.
