On Sunday, the prestigious Veliefendi Racecourse in Istanbul, Turkey, will host the twelfth round of the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses. Marking another chapter in the 33rd edition of the illustrious cup, this event will feature a thrilling race over 1600 metres, with a total prize purse of €250,000. Nine elite horses, representing the crème de la crème of Turkish and European stables, will compete for glory on the lush turf of Veliefendi.
A Recap of the Turkish Station’s Journey
This Turkish leg of the series has become a key fixture since its introduction to the schedule of the prestigious cup in 2024. Its inclusion has been celebrated for the past three seasons, as it has consistently delivered exciting competitions that contribute significantly to the international racing calendar.
Expectations for the Upcoming Race
Set to attract a significant crowd, the race is classified as a Group 3 event, open to Purebred Arabians aged three years and older. Among the contenders, the standout is the horse “Malfit,” representing the Wathnan Racing team, trained by François Rohaut and ridden by jockey Falah Nasser Bougnim. His prowess in prior competitions elevates the anticipated competitiveness of this race.
Another prominent participant is “Ali Saint Loon,” owned by Omar Ismail Gergar, trained by Élisabeth Bernard Jean François, and guided by the talented jockey Adel Al Qaid. Other notable horses in the mix include “Azimly,” “Kahramanoglu,” “Zincir Kubaran,” “Aslan Khatib,” “Gozpinari,” “Kral Sultan,” and “Oztatmar,” all aiming for victory in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter for the cup.
Organisers’ Insights and Vision
Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee for the Sheikh Zayed Cup series, expressed that reaching the twelfth station signifies the continuous success of this notable edition, highlighting its extraordinary presence across various international venues. He noted, “The ongoing support from the wise leadership is a fundamental pillar in achieving the series’ goals, enhancing the stature of the Purebred Arabian horse, and encouraging owners and breeders to further their involvement and development in the sport.”
Al Dhaheri also underscored the importance of Turkey’s station in the global framework of the cup, as it fosters valuable connections between horse owners and breeders. The repeated scheduling at the Veliefendi Racecourse underscores its significance in the Arabian horse community and reflects the esteemed position that the cup holds, drawing a robust selection of contenders from top stables.