The 32nd edition of the prestigious UAE President’s Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses launched in spectacular fashion on Sunday, April 20, at Kasr Al Saied Racecourse in Tunisia.
Drawing a massive audience and a festive atmosphere, the event marked a powerful start to one of the most globally recognized Arabian horse racing events.
In a thrilling upset, the horse NAFE’EH claimed the coveted title, surpassing expectations that had favored the trio HATIM (LBY), LASVEGAS (LBY), and KHADDEM.
The race, classified as Group 1 and held over 2,000 meters, featured 15 elite horses from Tunisia and North Africa aged four years and above. It offered a record-breaking prize of 500,000 Tunisian dinars—the highest purse in Tunisia’s racing history.
NAFE’EH, by NORESK AL MAURY out of MENJADOUR, is owned by Khaled Ben Othman, trained by Aymen Jaberi, and was ridden by jockey Jose Santiago. He finished the race in 2:23.03 minutes, a full two lengths ahead of runner-up LASVEGAS (LBY) (by BASEQ AL KHALEDIAH out of AKRAMEYAH), representing That Al Remal Stables. Third place went to HATIM (LBY) (by TM FRED TEXAS out of HAIFA).
Vision and support behind the series
The UAE President’s Cup Series is held under the patronage and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Presidential Court. The series reflects the UAE’s steadfast commitment to the advancement of Arabian horse racing globally and to supporting horse owners and breeders worldwide.
The Tunisian round was graced by the presence of several dignitaries and key figures:
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy
H.E. Ezzeddine Ben Cheikh, Tunisian Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries
H.E. Dr. Eman Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Al Salami, UAE Ambassador to Tunisia
H.E. Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the Higher Organizing Committee
Members of the diplomatic corps and the equestrian community
Statements from UAE officials
H.E. Dr. Eman Al Salami, UAE Ambassador to Tunisia, stated:
“The President’s Cup reflects a powerful image of soft diplomacy and strengthens bonds of friendship. We are proud of the outstanding success of the 32nd edition’s opening round, which beautifully reflected the UAE’s cultural heritage and was warmly received by the Tunisian public and diplomatic guests. The accompanying festivities also showcased Tunisia’s rich culture and traditions. Each year, this Cup brings tremendous value to Tunisia, and this year’s edition has seen even more growth and recognition.”
H.E. Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the Higher Organizing Committee, added:
“The vision of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan has led to unprecedented global advancements in Arabian horse racing. We take pride in the strong start and remarkable turnout for this year’s edition. The support of His Highness continues to elevate Arabian horse racing internationally. The pre-race auction in Tunisia demonstrated the high demand for Arabian horses, further validating the impact of our development strategy.”
He concluded by congratulating the winners of the Tunisian round and highlighting the exceptional public and diplomatic attendance at the event.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
