Emirates Jumping Cup Kicks Off Tomorrow in Abu Dhabi

Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Abu Dhabi will host the inaugural edition of the Emirates Jumping Cup from February 12 to 15. The event coincides with the first qualifying round for the second edition of the Longines League of Nations™, featuring 228 riders.

The opening ceremony will take place at 6:30 PM on the 12th, followed by four competition rounds starting at 9:00 AM, including two five-star and two two-star rounds. Over the course of four days, competitors will compete for a total prize purse of €1,362,100.

The Longines League of Nations™ will see the participation of the UAE national team alongside ten other teams from Belgium, France, Germany, Britain, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the USA.

The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation is organizing both tournaments in collaboration with the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), with support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Longines.

Dr Ghanem Al Hajri, Secretary General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, emphasised that the upcoming events represent a major milestone in global equestrian sports, reinforcing the UAE’s status as a premier sporting destination. He highlighted that the UAE is the first and only stop in the Arab world in the Longines League of Nations™, which spans five capital cities, supported by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The announcement was made during a press conference held this morning at Al Forsan International Sports Resort’s main conference hall, where the latest tournaments preparations were discussed.

Al Hajri extended his gratitude to the UAE leadership for its unwavering support in developing equestrian sports and hosting international events. He also praised the contributions of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Al Shira’aa Stables, and Longines, as well as the trust of the FEI in awarding the UAE the hosting rights for the event for four consecutive years.

Adel Al Yaqoubi, Director of International Events at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, affirmed the council’s commitment to collaborating with partners to ensure exceptional success and support both tournaments with the participation of elite international riders. He also thanked the FEI and the UAE Equestrian Federation for their significant efforts in organizing such prestigious events, emphasizing the UAE’s growing reputation in hosting major sporting events, backed by the country’s leadership.

Hisham Al Hosani, Equestrian Director at Al Forsan International Sports Resort, confirmed the venue’s readiness to host the events, ensuring all necessary facilities for a successful competition. He also revealed plans for accompanying activities and special surprises for spectators, expressing gratitude to the FEI for trusting the resort to host equestrian championships.

Mohammed Al Nakhi, Director of the Show Jumping Committee at the UAE Equestrian Federation, highlighted that Emirati riders’ participation in these events would enhance their experience and skills while boosting their aspirations. He noted that competing against top riders in diverse competitions helps further develop UAE show jumping talents.

Stephan Ellenbruch, Chairman of the FEI Show Jumping Committee, praised Al Forsan International Sports Resort’s world-class facilities, predicting a highly successful event with the participation of top international riders.

Todd Hinde, Director of Show Jumping at the FEI, underscored the importance of international show jumping events and the ongoing preparations for the competitions. He commended the UAE, the Equestrian Federation, and Al Forsan Resort for their efforts in ensuring all necessary arrangements for a top-tier event.

The press conference was attended by Dr Ghanem Al Hajri, Secretary-General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation; Sultan Al Yahyai, Chairman of the Show Jumping Committee and Head of the Regional Group 7 at the FEI; Adel Said Al Yaqoubi, Director of International Events at Abu Dhabi Sports Council; Mohammed Al Nakhi, Director of the Show Jumping Committee at the UAE Equestrian Federation; Stephan Ellenbruch, Chairman of the FEI Show Jumping Committee; Todd Hinde, Director of Show Jumping at the FEI; Mohammed Hatem Al Janibi, Director of Events at Boudheib International Village; and Abdullah Al Naqbi, Director of Support Services at the UAE Equestrian Federation.

Last Updated on 4 hours by News Desk 1