His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court and Chairman of the High Committee of the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC), led celebrations marking the conclusion of Bahrain’s 2025-2026 horseracing season at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, where owners, trainers, jockeys, sponsors and officials gathered to reflect on a year of achievement and growing international recognition for the Kingdom’s racing industry.
The event marked the culmination of a season that has further strengthened Bahrain’s position on the regional and international horseracing stage. In recent years, the Kingdom has continued to invest in the development of the sport, enhancing local competitions while expanding its profile through the successful hosting of international events.
Addressing guests, His Highness said the sector’s recent achievements provide strong motivation to continue advancing Bahrain’s horseracing industry in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He praised the efforts of those working across the sport, from owners and trainers to jockeys, officials and regulatory bodies, whose collective contribution helped deliver another successful season.
The evening also highlighted the growing role horseracing plays within Bahrain’s wider sporting lar-dscape. His Highness noted that the Kingdom’s attractive investment environment and highly skilled national workforce have helped strengthen its reputation as a competitive international destination for sport. He also acknowledged the contribution of strategic partners and sponsors, whose continued support remains essential to the sector’s future growth and development.
Among the highlights of the evening was the presentation of awards recognising the season’s leading performers.
The Leading Owner Award was presented to HH Shaikh Nader bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and HH Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa of Al Mohamediya Racing Team. Trainer Fawzi Nass claimed the Leading Trainer Award, which was accepted on his behalf by his son, Abdullah Fawzi Nass, while Yousif Taher received the Leading Arabian Horse Trainer Award.
Ebrahim Nader was named Leading Jockey, while Qasim Jameel received the Leading Apprentice Jockey Award. Congratulating the winners, His Highness wished all participants continued success in the seasons ahead.
The ceremony also recognised the strategic partners and sponsors whose support contributed significantly to the success of the racing calendar and the continued development of Bahrain’s horseracing sector.
Speaking during the event, Yousif Osama Buhiji, Undersecretary for Research and Projects at the Prime Minister’s Office, Member of the High Committee of REHC and Acting Chief Executive Officer, reflected on a season characterised by growth and progress. He credited the continued support of Bahrain’s leadership for helping the Kingdom achieve important milestones and further strengthen its standing within the international horseracing community.
Buhiji also highlighted the role of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman in driving the sector’s development, noting that the season witnessed significant advances in the quality and organisation of both local and international races. He thanked owners, trainers, jockeys and supporting organisations for their commitment and contribution throughout the year.
As the 2025-2026 season comes to a close, Bahrain’s horseracing sector continues to build momentum. With strong participation, sustained investment and an increasingly international outlook, the Kingdom is well positioned to further enhance its reputation as one of the region’s leading centres for equestrian sport.
