İstanbul’s Veliefendi Racecourse will host the 12th leg of the 32nd UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses on September 7, marking a key stop in the international racing calendar.
Historic race in Turkey
The race is set to become the richest Purebred Arabian event in Turkey history, with a total prize fund of USD 250,000. Open to colts, fillies, and horses aged three years and older, the Group 3 race will be run over 1,600 meters on turf.
Twelve horses are entered, including last year’s winner Berkenin Kızı, runner-up Mister Win, and third-placed Tuncer. The line-up also features RB Mary Lylah (USA), trained by Albain de Mieulle and owned by Wathnan Racing, with jockey Daniel Tudhope confirmed to ride. Other contenders include Haznedar, İnebolu, Kapriz, Katı Zamanı, Kimsesiz Baba, Köçek, Kralkarınca, and Aman Dulo.
Support for Arabian breed
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the UAE President’s Cup aims to promote the global status of Purebred Arabian horses and support their breeders and owners.
The series reflects long-term efforts to preserve Arabian bloodlines and integrate these races into major international events, contributing to the overall development of the Arabian racing industry.
Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of the UAE President’s Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses, said:
“We are proud to reach the 12th stop of the Cup this season, having achieved major milestones and delivered on the plans set at the year’s start. Turkey represents a vital part of the Cup’s strategy, demonstrating its reach across the world’s premier racecourses and extending its message to Arabian horse owners and breeders globally. It reaffirms our commitment to uplifting the Arabian breed by supporting the community of owners and breeders and organizing top-class races that advance the sport and strengthen the Arabian horse industry.”
He added:
“The Turkey round also highlights the depth of flourishing bilateral ties and strong bonds of friendship between the UAE and Turkey. The host nation’s passion for Arabian horses is reflected in the many races it stages annually and the special place Arabian horses hold in its history. This fully aligns with the goals and vision of the Supreme Organizing Committee.”
