HORSERACING – The champions of Bahrain’s 2025-26 horseracing season were honoured in a ceremony last night attended by Prime Minister’s Court Minister and Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) High Committee chairman Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
The event was held at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay with other high-ranking officials on hand.
Shaikh Isa noted that the recent successes of the kingdom’s horseracing sector serve as a strong incentive to continue efforts aimed at realising the visions of His Majesty King Hamad and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Shaikh Isa expressed his appreciation for the dedicated efforts of all individuals working in the equestrian and horseracing sectors, as well as the supporting regulatory bodies, whose contributions were key to the season’s success and ongoing progress.
Shaikh Isa underscored Bahrain’s commitment to further developing local races and excelling in hosting international competitions.
Shaikh Isa highlighted how Bahrain’s attractive investment environment and highly qualified national workforce have strengthened the kingdom’s position as a competitive international sporting destination. He commended the dedication and professionalism of Bahrainis, whose contributions continue to drive progress across various sectors, particularly in horseracing sports, as reflected in the outstanding success of the 2025-26 campaign.
Additionally, Shaikh Isa acknowledged the valuable contributions of partners and sponsors in supporting the sector and advancing projects that align with its future vision.
He affirmed the commitment to further strengthening strategic partnerships with various institutions for additional achievements in the sector.
During the ceremony, Shaikh Isa honoured the season’s top performers. He presented the Champion Owner Award to Shaikh Nader bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa of Al Mohamediya Racing Team.
The Champion Trainer Award was presented to Fawzi Nass, accepted on his behalf by his son, Abdullah Fawzi Nass, while the Champion Arabian Horse Trainer Award went to Yousif Taher.
The Champion Jockey Award was presented to Ebrahim Nader, while the Champion Apprentice Jockey Award was handed over to Qasim Jameel.
Shaikh Isa congratulated all the award recipients and wished continued success for all participants in the upcoming season.
Furthermore, Shaikh Isa honoured the season’s strategic partners in recognition of their important role and contributions in supporting and sponsoring the races, which played a significant part in achieving the season’s objectives.
In a speech at the ceremony, Prime Minister’s Office research and projects undersecretary and REHC High Committee member and acting CEO Yousif Osama Buhiji expressed profound gratitude to His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness Prince Salman for their generous patronage and continued support of the sport.
He noted that this support has led to significant achievements that have bolstered Bahrain’s leading position in horseracing.
Buhiji commended the pivotal role of Shaikh Isa in advancing the development and accomplishments of the horseracing season.
He noted that this campaign witnessed extensive progress, overcoming various challenges and showcasing ongoing development efforts that have elevated the standards of local and international races.
He also extended his appreciation to all partners and entities supporting horseracing, praising the contributions of owners, trainers, and jockeys whose efforts ensured the season’s success.