The 32nd edition of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses made its historic debut at the iconic ParisLongchamp Racecourse on Sunday, May 11, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the global racing calendar.
The event was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
Luwsail wins UAE President’s Cup
Luwsail, a standout performer trained by Jean de Mieulle and owned by Al Shaqab Racing, claimed the coveted President of the UAE Cup – Coupe d’Europe des Chevaux Arabes (Gr1 PA) in dominant fashion.
The victory, ridden by Faleh Bughenaim, saw Luwsail secure his second UAE President’s Cup title, following a previous win at Doncaster. The race, with a €350,000 prize, was held over a 2,000-meter distance, with Luwsail finishing ahead of RB Kingmaker, who came second, and Muraad, who finished in third.
Other group 1 victories
The event also showcased two prestigious Group 1 classics under the Emirates banner. Henri Matisse, trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore, triumphed in the Emirates Poule d’Essai des Poulains (French 2000 Guineas) over 1,600 meters, earning €650,000 in prize money.
Zarigana, owned by His Highness The Aga Khan, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, and ridden by Mickael Barzalona, clinched victory in the Emirates Poule d’Essai des Pouliches (French 1000 Guineas), winning €550,000 for her performance.
Dignitaries in attendance
The event drew a notable crowd of dignitaries, including HE Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France; HE Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the Higher Organizing Committee for the UAE President’s Cup Series; and Mr. Guillaume de Saint-Seine, President of France Galop, among other distinguished guests.
Remarks on the event’s success
HE Muslim Al Amri, a member of the Higher Organizing Committee for the UAE President’s Cup Series, expressed his views on the success of the event:
“The vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed has propelled the UAE President’s Cup to the forefront of global Arabian racing. The ParisLongchamp event showcased the Cup’s growing international stature and strengthened our collaboration with France Galop, reflecting the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and France.”
The UAE President’s Cup continues to elevate the profile of Arabian horse racing, marking another milestone in its international expansion.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
