A Colorful Spectacle: The Grand Finale of the UAE President Cup 2025
The Grand Finale of the UAE President Cup 2025
The prestigious UAE President Cup for Arabian Purebred Horses concluded with a stunning finale at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club on December 18, 2025, under the esteemed patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. As a day of celebration, it brought together dignitaries, passionate spectators, and elite competitors dedicated to showcasing the best of Arabian equestrian talent.
A Day to Remember
The event began with excitement in the air and culminated in the seventh and final race, the HH The President Cup for Arabian Purebred Horses (Group 1), featuring one of the highest prize pools of the evening—8 million AED. The race proved to be a highlight, where HM Alchahine, owned by The National Stables and ridden by the renowned Italian jockey Cristian Demuro, secured victory after a breathtaking 2,200 meters race, clocking in at 223.55 seconds.
In his remarks, Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's Court, emphasized how the UAE President Cup epitomizes the unwavering commitment of the leadership to sustain the rich equestrian heritage of the nation. He commended the event's role in enhancing Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for Arabian horse racing, attracting competitors from around the world and supporting the sustainability of the equestrian sector for future generations.
Thrilling Races and Celebrations
The day featured seven exhilarating races, adding to the atmosphere of excitement. The HH The President Cup for Thoroughbreds, boasting a purse of 1 million AED, was won by Dark Trooper, trained by Alban de Mieulle and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, with a remarkable time of 121.89 seconds over 1,400 meters. The variety of races kept fans engaged, culminating in a total prize pool of 10.8 million AED for the evening.
Among the numerous highlights was the opening race, won by Samaa Al Ezz, which took the lead at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club Conditions for fillies and mares, demonstrating the high quality of competitors present. Moreover, another unforgettable moment came when Rasasi, owned by Al Rahmani Racing, shattered the track record in the Yas Sprint for Arabian Purebreds (Group 3), finishing the 1,200 meters in just 115.32 seconds.
Spectacular drone shows and the operetta titled "Zayed's Dream, An Everlasting Dream" further enriched the gala atmosphere, creating a festival-like experience for everyone in attendance.
Legacy of Excellence
Prominent figures such as Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, graced the event, symbolizing the importance of the occasion.
The UAE President Cup stands not only as a celebration of Arabian horses but also as a significant cultural fixture that strengthens connections within the equestrian community and instills pride in the UAE’s equine heritage. Events like these lay the groundwork for future generations, merging tradition with the excitement of high-stakes competition.
In conclusion, the UAE President Cup 2025 successfully showcased the beauty, power, and elegance of Arabian horses, celebrating this unique tradition and emphasizing Abu Dhabi's role as a leading venue for this time-honored sport.