The relationship between humans and horses has always been deeply rooted in the Arab world, forming part of a centuries-old tradition woven into countless heroic tales. Qatar has consistently placed horses at the center of its initiatives, integrating it into its expansion strategy with a multidisciplinary vision that promotes the horse through equestrian sports, shows and horse racing. In the realm of racing, Qatar has significantly developed both Arabian and Thoroughbred racing within its borders, relying on one of the major festivals on the international scene. It has also stood out globally by securing victories at the highest level worldwide and providing support to some of Europe’s key racing events. A spotlight on this nation as it prepares for its prestigious H.H. Amir Sword Festival.
Qatar is a young racing nation, yet one of the most significant events on the international racing calendar, the H.H. The Amir Sword Festival, will take place in the heart of its capital, Doha, at the Al Rayyan Racecourse. From February 13 to 15, 2025, 26 competitions will be held at Al Rayyan, including the coveted H.H. The Amir Sword (Gr.1-PA) for Purebred Arabians and the H.H. The Amir Trophy, its counterpart for thoroughbreds. The program also features races such as the Al Rayyan Mile (Gr.2) for three-year-olds and the Dukhan Sprint (Gr.3).
For 2025, the Festival unveils a new identity presented during the February 2 press conference. It is symbolized by the “Bisht”, a traditional ceremonial cloak worn during important occasions, representing Qatar’s prestige and deep cultural attachment to horses. This change also highlights the QREC’s (Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club) commitment to continually enhancing the Festival’s reputation on the world stage. Total prize money for the 2025 edition has increased to $10 million, with the main races on the final day offering $2.5 million each.
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A closer look at the major events of the Festival’s final day:
1. Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Cup (Group 2)
2. Qatar International Cup (Group 1-PA)
3. Dukhan Sprint (Group 3)
4. Al Rayyan Mile (Group 2)
5. H.H. The Amir Shalfa (Handicap Race)
6. H.H. The Amir Silver Sword (Class 1 - Purebred Arabians)
7. H.H. The Amir Trophy (Group 1)
8. H.H. The Amir Sword (Group 1-PA)
International participation is once again on the rise, driven by a long-term strategy from the QREC. Some of the world’s best performers, whether thoroughbreds or Purebred Arabians, are expected to take part. Among the 28 foreign contenders are Rebel’s Romance, Al Riffa, and the champion Al Ghadeer, trained by François Rohaut, who will attempt the unprecedented record of claiming a second Triple Crown for Al Shaqab Racing.
Galorama. What is your background?
A.B. I have been the Director of the IRB (International Racing Bureau) since August 1982. That makes 43 years now (laughs)! Before that, I worked for two years with a broker, John Moore.
G. How long have you been working with the QREC?
A.B. We’ve been working with the QREC for over ten years now. Initially, our partnership began with the Derby held at the end of December. Then, we shifted our focus to the HH Amir’s Trophy festival.
G. What is your role with the QREC?
A.B. We are responsible for promoting the HH Amir’s Trophy festival to potential foreign participants. This year, there will be about forty foreign participants coming from France, England, Dubai, Bahrain and Japan. The entries closed on January 7, 2025. Following that, and in collaboration with the QREC, we hold working meetings to send invitations to the selected participants. The first invitations were sent on January 16, and additional invitations are issued throughout the process as participants confirm their attendance. Most of the horses will arrive on February 7.
For each horse, seven people are invited, divided as follows: two lads, two owners, two trainers and the jockey. We ensure that everything goes smoothly for both the horse and their team. Two IRB representatives arrive before the horses to welcome them at the airport. My colleagues also assist the grooms in organizing morning training sessions.
We also help the QREC and participants’ teams during the draw for the starting gate positions. On-site, our role is to ensure everything runs smoothly, everyone has the correct badges and access, and that they have an enjoyable experience.
Additionally, we assist the teams, jockeys and lads on race days, guiding them to the right locations, handling interviews, participating in the best-turned-out horse competitions and more.
The horses typically leave the day after the festival, though some may stay a few extra days depending on flight availability.
G. How has the festival evolved?
A.B. Since the prize money has increased, the quality of races has significantly improved on the thoroughbred side. For Purebred Arabians, trainers and owners were already coming to Doha to race. For them, prestige matters more than the prize money. Incidentally, the only race that isn’t invitation-only is the Gr.1-PA H.H The Amir Sword and Trophy, reserved for Purebred Arabians aged four and older.
This year, we will once again welcome superstars such as Al Ghadeer, Dubai Honour and Rebel’s Romance. We are also delighted to welcome back the Japanese contender Satono Glanz
“This year, there will be around thirty international runners coming from France, England, Dubai, Bahrain, and Japan.”
Adrian Beaumont
Qatar has an ancestral cultural attachment to horses, and the QREC works to establish the country as a key player on the international stage for horse racing and breeding of Purebred Arabians. It plays a fundamental role in their promotion, notably sponsoring the first Group 1 race for Purebred Arabians during a Classic day in France and contributing significantly to the creation of IFHAR in January 1999 in Paris. Sami Jassim Al Boenain, Technical Advisor to the President of QREC and Vice-President of IFHAR, highlights this support.
GALORAMA. When did you start working in horse racing and what roles have you held within the QREC?
Sami Jassim Al Boenain. I began as a jockey in 1980, a role I held for five years. I’ve always been fascinated by show jumping, and this passion quickly turned into a successful career as a member of Qatar’s national team. I represented my country through this team in many countries during international competitions and events. After retiring from sports, I joined the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) in 1993, initially as a handicapper, then as Director of Racing in 1995. From 2006 to 2015, I served as the Director and Secretary General of the QREC Steering Committee. I am currently the Technical Advisor to the President of the QREC.
Under my leadership, the QREC has grown into a recognized center within the Gulf region and globally for horse racing and equestrian sports. I spearheaded numerous significant initiatives that continue to enhance Qatar’s reputation as a key player in the global horse racing and equestrian scene.
This includes innovative sponsorships like the prestigious Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, one of the richest turf races in the world, and the Qatar Arabian World Cup held during the same weekend. This race was the first Group 1 for purebred Arabians to be featured in a Classic weekend program in France.
G. What is your role within IFHAR?
S.J.A.B. In 1999, Qatar played a significant role in the creation of the International Federation of Arabian Horse Racing Authorities (IFHAR). Since its establishment, I have held key roles within IFHAR, initially as Director of the Committee for Rules and Race Development, then as Vice President, and eventually being elected President of IFHAR in 2008, a position I held for three terms until 2017. I currently serve as IFHAR’s Vice President.
G. What are the QREC’s upcoming goals?
S.J.A.B. The QREC’s upcoming objectives are to improve the level of Group races dedicated to English thoroughbreds. Group 1 races for purebred Arabians are already well-established, but Group 1 races for Thoroughbreds need further development.
G. Thoroughbreds versus Purebred Arabians—what is your preference?
S.J.A.B. I have a deep appreciation for Purebred Arabians, as they represent an important part of my heritage and culture. At the same time, I am an admirer and enthusiastic supporter of racehorses in general. As a result, I hold Thoroughbreds in high regard for their exceptional qualities and racing talents.
Al Rayyan Racecourse, the venue for the H.H. The Amir Sword Festival, is Qatar’s primary racecourse, located about 7 kilometers north of Doha. It features a 1,800-meter turf track and a 1,400-meter dirt track, with a 1,400-seat grandstand. The facility includes a training and welfare center for horses, with recent upgrades to improve accommodations for horses, owners, trainers and jockeys.
Qatar’s second racecourse, Al Uqda, also hosts meetings and training facilities. During the 2023-2024 season, 67 race days were held at Al Rayyan (45 between October 18, 2023, and April 25, 2024) and Al Uqda (22 between November 18, 2023, and March 2, 2024), encompassing a total of 560 races with over 7,800 entries, according to QREC Racing Manager Abdulla Al Kubaisi.
Galorama. How did you start working with the Qataris?
Jean-Pierre Deroubaix. I set up my own business in the 1990s after working for Horse France. The CCI and UBI France organized a tour in the Middle East: Kuwait, the Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, etc. The goal was to introduce myself and offer my services as a bloodstock agent and consultant in the creation of stables, stud farms and racetracks. I met Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani during this trip and I presented the projects I had already worked on, such as in Abu Dhabi. Some time later, Alban de Mieulle contacted me to confirm their interest, especially since Qatar had to organize the Asian Games and needed to set up all the infrastructure. With the support of Louis Romanet and Dr. Devolz, we verified the identity of all the equines, as well as the studbooks, and established a quarantine, among other things. There was in-depth work to be done on the sanitary aspect.
Regarding the infrastructure, I assisted the QREC, in partnership with Gregori International, in creating a riding arena, a veterinary clinic and a new racetrack. Everything was ready for 2006 and the Asian Games. I also worked with Al Shaqab on their private facilities.
G. What were the races like when you first started going to Qatar?
J.P.D. There was one race meeting per weekend. Now, there are two to three race days per week and two racetracks: Al Rayyan in Doha and another in the north, Al Uqda.
G. How did you contribute to the development of horse racing in Qatar?
J.P.D. I worked in tandem with Louis Romanet to secure the sponsorship of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Sheikh Abdullah wanted a Group 1 race for Purebred Arabians during the “Arc“ weekend and to sponsor both races. The sponsorship contract for both events began in 2008. At the same time, I continued working with the teams in Doha to finalize the infrastructure, which continued until 2012. It was a wonderful equestrian and human adventure, fostering friendship between France and Qatar.
G. What are the current challenges for racing and breeding in Qatar?
J.P.D. The Al Rayyan racetrack is now in the middle of the city and Doha keeps expanding. As a result, the QREC can no longer grow or develop on this site. Today, the Qataris lack stables and need to build more. It is highly likely that the racetrack will be relocated, which is something that happens frequently in many countries.
The Qatari youth are passionate about horses and racing. In general, Qataris love horses and take a great interest in them. The Purebred Arabians holds a sacred status in their culture, with a clear advantage over the thoroughbreds because they can touch and ride it.
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Jean-Pierre Deroubaix. © APRH
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Jean-Pierre Deroubaix (second from the left) alongside Louis Romanet, Alban de Mieulle, Olivier Peslier, and Martial Boisseuil.
© APRH
French jockeys have stood out on numerous occasions in Qatar, adding some of the country’s most prestigious races to their records. Among them, the experienced Ronan Thomas has spent five seasons in Qatar since 2018 - four of them working with Alban de Mieulle to represent Umm Qarn Farm, and one riding for Wathnan Racing. The winner of the Prix du Jockey Club 2024 (Gr.1) with Look de Vega also boasts an impressive record in Qatar, having topped the jockey leaderboard several times.
French jockey Olivier d’Andigné has also been alternating his seasons between Qatar and France since the winter of 2021-2022, joining the equally young Jean de Mieulle, who is a private trainer for Al Shaqab Racing. Earlier this year, after multiple top-level performances, the duo distinguished themselves by securing their first Group win for the renowned stable with Al Wakrah, a triple G1-PA-placed daughter of TM Fred Texas who landed the Gr.2-PA H.H. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al Thani Cup.
Galorama. What is your background?
O.A. I started as an amateur jockey (Gentleman-rider) at the age of 16, continuing until I earned my high school diploma (Baccalauréat). It was only after getting my diploma that I became a professional jockey. I began my career with Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé, where I stayed for three years. When Jean de Mieulle launched his training operation, we had many discussions and I decided to join him. Now, I alternate between the winter racing season in Qatar and the summer season in France. When I’m in France, I work freelance. I ride in the mornings, mainly for Jean de Mieulle and Alain Couétil, and in the afternoons, I race.
G. How did you become a jockey in Qatar?
O.A. I first went to Qatar during the 2021–2022 season. Jean recommended me to Alban de Mieulle. Since Jean became a private trainer for Al Shaqab Racing in Qatar, I have been under contract with them. I ride their horses in the mornings and at the races. If I don’t have any rides for Al Shaqab Racing, I ride for other trainers or owners.
G. What similarities and differences are there between racing in Qatar and France?
O.A. There are many French and European jockeys in Qatar, so there are some similarities in riding styles. However, the main difference lies in the pace of the races. It’s faster in Qatar, and there is less emphasis on tactical strategies. About 70% of the races in Qatar are run over distances of 1,100 to 1,600 meters, which places a greater emphasis on speed.
G. What is your typical day like, both on and off race days?
O.A. In the mornings, I arrive at the stables at 3:40 a.m. and we start with the first set of horses at 4:00 a.m. We ride between three and four sets per day, finishing by 8:00 a.m. Mornings are shorter compared to France, as our sole focus is on riding. A team of grooms takes care of feeding, grooming, and preparing the horses.
When there are no races, I work out to stay fit. The pace in Qatar is less intense, so it’s important to maintain fitness and weight. At Al Uqda, races start at 12:50 p.m. and it takes about 30 minutes to get to the racetrack from Doha. At Al Rayyan, races start at 4:00 p.m.
G. Can you describe the tracks at the two Qatari racetracks? What are their specific characteristics?
O.A. In Doha, at the Al Rayyan racetrack, the dirt track is quite deep. Horses need specific abilities to handle this surface, and some struggle to adapt to it.
The turf track has a tight layout, with a short 300-meter straight and relatively small turns. It favors horses ridden offensively.
The synthetic (PSF) track at Al Uqda is suitable for all horses. The track layout is quite similar to Deauville, with wide turns and long straights.
G. How do you approach the layout of each track? Are there key moments in a race to secure a win?
O.A. The start is a key moment in the race. Especially with 16 runners, it’s hard to make up ground from the back of the field. It’s important to get a good position straight out of the gates. The final turn is also crucial. Horses need to be relaxed and breathing well to be able to accelerate all the way to the finish line.
G. What abilities must a horse have to race in Qatar, both for the season and the international meeting?
O.A. Generally, a horse must be agile, quick off the mark and able to accelerate repeatedly during the race. For dirt races, they must tolerate kickback, as some horses - especially Purebred Arabians -don’t handle it well at all. Horses can perform significantly below their best due to the kickback.
For the Emir Sword weekend, a true Group 1 thoroughbred is now needed to be competitive. The level has improved significantly, partly thanks to Wathnan Racing. Increased prize money has also attracted new trainers with higher-quality horses. For Purebred Arabians, trainers and owners have already been bringing excellent horses to this weekend for years. Overall, the level of racing keeps rising.
G. Do you ride thoroughbreds differently from Purebred Arabians?
O.A. Yes, the riding approach is slightly different. With Purebred Arabians, I try to trick them, to make them want to put in that final effort on their own rather than forcing them. They rely heavily on their morale and willingness, especially the mares. This aspect is less present with thoroughbreds. With Purebred Arabians, it’s about building a connection and mutual understanding between the horse and rider. Both types of horses are different, and we must adapt to each one. That’s what makes it so challenging and rewarding.
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Olivier d’Andigné.
© APRH
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The French jockey dressed in the colors of Al Shaqab Racing.
© APRH
Qatar’s international presence extends beyond its borders through long-term sponsorships and notable achievements on the European racing scene. Key partnerships include the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in France and the QIPCO British Champion Series in the UK. Several Qatari-owned horses have left their mark on Europe’s top races and have settled breeding operations in both France and the UK.
The iconic gray and garnet silks of Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani are a regular presence on Group-level podiums and were notably associated with the legendary Trêve, the dual winner of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (Gr.1). Since her retirement, the champion mare has been enjoying a peaceful life at Haras de Bouquetot, the only Qatari breeding entity successfully established in France and one of the few such operations in Europe. The stud has quickly risen among the elite, ranking third in the 2024 breeders’ standings with its thoroughbreds and Purebred Arabians.
Haras de Bouquetot boasts a sought-after stallion roster for thoroughbreds, with its latest addition being Al Hakeem, a Group winner ranked among the top three Siyouni by rating, who was born and raised at the stud. The operation also features a premier Purebred Arabian breeding program, long represented by the world’s top stallion Dahess, and more recently by his sensational son Al Mourtajez. His progeny excel in top-tier Group 1 races across Europe, including the historic Triple Crown winner Al Ghadeer, who is on track to achieve an unprecedented double.
Galorama. When was the stud farm established and who owns it?
Benoit Jeffroy. The stud farm was initially created in the 1960s by an American, Alec Weissweiller. In August 2012, His Excellency Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani acquired it. The stud covers a total area of 120 hectares, with 70 hectares of usable pasture. The Sheikh wanted a location close to Paris and Deauville. The operation was originally intended to start with around 20 broodmares and be a “small personal venture“ for his enjoyment. Al Shaqab Racing did not yet exist at that time.
G. Why invest in France rather than another country?
B.J. There are several reasons, such as the fact that the Sheikh studied at Saint-Cyr. He is a Francophile, which naturally created an affinity. There is also a broader investment program by Qatar in France, which includes the equine industry.
It’s important to recognize the benefit this brings to France. The capital is invested here and generates an entire local economy, including jobs and various services. It’s a real boost to the industry. The Sheikh also quickly realized the advantage of breeding in France due to the owners’ and breeders’ premium systems. It makes more sense to breed and race in France than in other European countries. Every investment counts nowadays.
G. What goals and ambitions are pursued through the creation of this stud farm?
B.J. The strategy has been developed gradually based on the Sheikh’s investments. From 2012 to 2013, there were only 4 mares at the stud, with the primary focus on construction and developing the infrastructure: barns, paddocks, roads, a breeding station and housing. From 2016 to 2017, we entered a development phase, reaching an average of 45 to 55 broodmares, with the development of a dedicated team to manage the operation.
Additionally, there were several acquisitions of yearlings and racehorses in training, such as Olympic Glory, Toronado and Trêve. The breeding and stallion operations expanded progressively thanks to thrilling on-track results. The stallion operation was established in 2015 with the arrival of Style Vendôme and Planteur. We aim to introduce a new stallion to breeders every year. In 2018, we brought in five new stallions: Zelzal, Al Wukair, Ectot, Brametot and Toronado.
The stud farm quickly became too small, so we acquired the Mezeray annex in 2016, now known as Haras de Livarot, where most of the broodmares are based.
In the medium to long term, our goal is to breed future stallions. We manage the number of broodmares carefully, regularly selling some while continuing to invest in yearlings and horses in training. Half of our breeding stock is covered by our stallions and the other half by proven stallions. We support our stallions by putting many of their progeny into training. Our aim is to streamline and develop what we currently have.
Breeding is a long-term process. When a horse wins, it’s usually the result of 3 to 5 years of effort. We are a young operation, which is important to keep in mind. In 2024, combining both Thoroughbreds and Purebred Arabians, we ranked third in the breeders’ charts. We hope we’ll be lucky enough to produce a champion stallion who will take us to the next level.
G. How many horses are based at the stud?
B.J. We currently have 220 hectares of pasture spread across both sites. Only thoroughbreds are based in Normandy, divided between the two locations. Depending on the season, we have between 120 and 170 horses annually (broodmares, young horses and resting horses).
G. Are the horses bred on-site mainly for the French (European) circuit or the Qatari circuit?
B.J. The horses are bred to race in Europe. Three-quarters go into training in France, and the remaining quarter goes to England when we believe their physique, pedigree or skills align better with the British program. It’s only at a later stage that we decide whether to send them to Qatar or sell them. We aim to maintain a set number of horses within Al Shaqab Racing’s structure. Every year, we need to make room for the two-year-olds. The Sheikh has set specific criteria and it’s our job to organize accordingly.
G. What has been your greatest success since the stud farm was established?
B.J. Without a doubt, Al Hakeem! He was born and raised at the stud. He won the Prix Guillaume d’Ornano (Gr.2), the Prix Gontaut-Biron Hong Kong Jockey Club (Gr.3) and the Prix de Suresnes (Listed). He also won as a two-year-old and finished fourth in both the Qatar Jockey Club (Gr.1) and the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (Gr.1). He is starting his stallion career this year at Haras de Bouquetot.
Purebred
Arabian Horses (PSAR)
G. How many Purebred Arabians do you have in France?
B.J. We have about 50 broodmares, with roughly the same number of foals born each year. The entire stock is mainly based in the western and southwestern regions of France. For the breeding operation, the horses are located at Haras du Berlais, Haras du Grand Courgeon, Haras de Thouars, and Haras de Saubouas. There are approximately 200 Purebred Arabians in France.
G. What goals and strategies do you apply for PSAR foals born in France?
B.J. The strategy is relatively similar to that of the thoroughbreds: to breed and raise champions. Again, all Purebred Arabians are raised to race in France, and only at a later stage do we decide whether to send them to Qatar to race or sell them. We also breed some Purebred Arabians born and raised in Qatar to compete locally.
G. What criteria do you use to select horses for training in Qatar?
B.J. There are about 30 Purebred Arabians in training in Qatar. Mohamed Al Mansour and Jean de Mieulle discuss and choose the horses to send there. Various criteria are considered, such as their suitability for dirt and fast turf tracks, distance preferences, the layout of the racetrack and the racing program in Doha.
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Al Hakeem during the Prix Guillaume d’Ornano in 2022.
© Zuzanna Lupa
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Al Ghadeer, winner of the Amir Sword in 2024.
© Juhaim
Nicolas de Watrigant has played a key role in securing some of Al Shaqab Racing’s greatest European successes through purchases at sales or private sales. Mandore International Agency’s renowned bloodstock agent discusses his approach, strategy and vision.
Galorama. How did you start working with the Qataris, and what share do they represent in your business?
Nicolas de Watrigant. My collaboration with Qatar began in 2008 when I purchased and advised Nasser Abdullah Al Attiyah on the acquisition of the horse Akim de Ducor. At that time, he won everything, eventually becoming the best colt of his generation in Europe and ending the year by winning the Qatar Derby.
In 2011, Khalifa Al Attiyah, whom I was advising on horse purchases, introduced me to Sheikh Joaan Al Thani. My first purchase for him was Al Nachmiya, who became his first Purebred Arabian runner and Group 1 winner at Saint-Cloud. She then became the best filly of her generation. The following year, I purchased Olympic Glory, who secured Sheikh Joaan’s first Group 1 win during the Arc weekend in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère. From that moment, the journey truly began. Shortly afterward, we recommended Toronado, who went on to claim Sheikh Joaan’s first Group 1 win at Royal Ascot in the Queen Anne Stakes for Al Shaqab Racing’s silks.
The opportunity given to me by Sheikh Joaan and Khalifa Al Attiyah - entrusting me with a portion of their purchases, as I wasn’t the only bloodstock agent at the time (three other Anglo-Irish bloodstock agent were also involved) - allowed me, at the age of 29, to significantly accelerate as a horse bloodstock agent. I traveled the world, met top trainers and learned every day from them, understanding their demands when selecting yearlings to be placed in their stables.
I was also fortunate to remain independent and work alongside my wife, Méryl, to work with other owners. Today, this independence has enabled us to use our years of experience to serve new investors who trust our agency, Mandore International Agency.
G. How have horse racing and breeding evolved in Qatar in recent years?
N.d.W. About ten years ago, Qatar made a major impact in the racing world with the creation of Al Shaqab Racing and the rise of stables owned by the Al Thani family (Qatar Racing, Al Shahania, Umm Qarn, Al Wasmiyah Stud). This expansion was accompanied by numerous sponsorships and a significant increase in the number of horses in training in Europe. At that time, global attention was focused on Doha, particularly during the prestigious H.H. The Amir Sword Festival. France, along with Ireland and Great Britain, greatly benefited from Qatari investments.
Following this period of growth, Qatari moderated their purchasing activity, particularly during the Gulf diplomatic crisis in 2017, which reduced the number of horses in Europe. Some stables shifted their focus to breeding or Purebred Arabians. This led to a notable decrease in European visitors at Al Rayyan Racecourse and a general decline in international activity.
Since the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup, Qatar has increased its support for racing, with a spectacular rise in prize money, especially for the H.H. The Amir Sword International meeting, where every race now offers at least $100,000 in prize money. This strategy has attracted new ambitious owners and enabled the rise of Wathnan Racing, the stable owned by the Emir of Qatar, which could become a major player comparable to Godolphin. This new momentum has piqued the interest of international players, particularly from Anglo-Irish regions.
G. What are the current challenges for horse racing and breeding in Qatar?
N.d.W. Horses have become a vector for international influence for Gulf countries. Sheikh Mohammed was the pioneer with the creation of Godolphin and the development of infrastructures like Meydan Racecourse. Horse racing in Qatar fits perfectly within the country’s cultural fabric. Horses hold a fundamental place in the heritage of Qatar and its neighboring countries.
By sponsoring prestigious races like the Prix du Jockey Club, the Arc de Triomphe, Glorious Goodwood, and several Purebred Arabian races, Qatar pursues both an international influence strategy and the preservation of its equestrian heritage. This strategy also involves breeding and competition in France, further strengthening its presence and influence on the global racing scene.
Locally, Qatar now faces competition from its neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia, with the creation of the Saudi Cup in 2020, which has become the richest horse race in the world and attracts top international competitors. The challenge for Qatar is to remain competitive and ensure that the H.H. The Amir Sword meeting continues to offer attractive prize money to draw international participants and maintain high standards.
G. What are your best results for Al Shaqab Racing’s silks?
N.d.W. Our agency specializes in buying yearlings. As part of our work for Al Shaqab Racing in France, a portion of the budget dedicated to this mission is allocated to supporting their stallions, which positively impacts French breeders who produce their progeny. We also acquire a few high-potential horses privately, often in partnerships, as was the case last year with Misunderstood and Sparkling Plenty.
Each year, Al Shaqab Racing’s team selects horses based on their abilities to determine which ones will continue their racing careers in Qatar. Since 2012, we have purchased the following Group 1 winners at yearling or Breeze-Up sales: Unquestionable, Place du Carrousel, Wooded, Qemah, Mekhtaal, Al Wukair, and Mshawish.
Among the Group 2, Group 3, and Listed winners, we can mention Armor, Welwal, Duhail, Baitha Alga, Heshem, Al Jazi, Amy Eria, Afandem, Karar, Lucky, Lycra, Alwaab, Iltemas, Lbretha, Redbrooks, Samarham, Shamshon, and Wajnah.
As for horses acquired privately, notable names include Misunderstood, Sparkling Plenty, Brametot, Toronado, Olympic Glory, Ectot, Sandiva, and Planteur.
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H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and Nicolas de Watrigant
© APRH
By Mélodie Janvier
Bloodstock agent Cécile Adonias, who founded Cava Associates, highlights the differences between racing in France and Qatar and the key criteria for acquiring horses for Qatari interests:
Galorama. Can you explain how you came to collaborate with the Qataris?
Cécile Adonias. I founded my bloodstock agency, Cava Associate, in October 2019. At the beginning, my client base was primarily focused on NH racing, but over time, my network expanded and diversified. My first Qatari client involved the purchase of Selous, bred by Al Shahania, who quickly won races in Doha after his arrival and continued to perform well each season, except for one year due to a health issue. Thanks to Selous’ success, which met the expectations of his connections, I was able to develop my client base in Qatar.
G. Are there significant differences between racing in France and in Qatar?
C.A. Racing in Qatar is different from racing in France. Over there, races are much faster-paced and you need horses that can adapt to quick tracks or perform well on dirt. They also have to be capable of producing multiple bursts of acceleration during a race. The quality of racing is continuously improving, so you need competitive horses to perform well in Doha.
G. The Gulf countries are known for their special attachment to Purebred Arabians (PA). Can you tell us more about this?
C.A. The Purebred Arabian market is very well-developed in Qatar, largely due to their love for the breed. An owner of thoroughbreds often owns Purebred Arabians as well. The purchasing criteria for Purebred Arabians are similar to those for thoroughbreds, with the main difference being in the racing program. There are two distinct programs for Purebred Arabians: one reserved for locally-bred PAs and another open to all, including imports. The Qatari program offers more variety in race distances for Purebred Arabians, providing more opportunities than the French program can offer.
G. Is the racing atmosphere in Qatar different from that in France?
C.A. The atmosphere at the races in Qatar is different from that in France. Horses are deeply rooted in their culture. It’s a very family-friendly and warm environment.
G. What are your most recent purchases exported to Qatar that you have high hopes for?
C.A. This year, two horses I purchased participated in the Qatar Derby on December 27, which is very encouraging. They competed against horses of a higher caliber, likely bought with larger budgets. There is a significant disparity in purchase budgets, which is an advantage because it allows for investment in different markets and horse profiles. For example, Swann, who just ran in the Qatar Derby, was a horse I purchased from a claimer in September 2024.