THE CLUB HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THE 2025–2026 RACING CALENDAR. WHEN WILL THE NEW SEASON BEGIN, AND WHAT CAN WE EXPECT?
The new season will officially begin on Friday 31 October 2025 and will consist of 29 race meetings. The calendar reflects the continued growth and ambition of the Club under the direction of the High Committee, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court. Our objective remains to position Bahrain as one of the world’s most respected horseracing destinations. This season’s structure builds on that, combining international competitiveness, major race days, and a growing platform for the community to engage with the sport.
INTERNATIONAL RACING CONTINUES TO PLAY A MAJOR ROLE IN THAT GROWTH. WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT FOR BAHRAIN?
Racing is global by nature, and if we want to grow in both reputation and competitiveness, we must be part of that global structure. The Bahrain International Trophy is central to this. Now a Group 2 race, it will return for its seventh edition on Friday 14 November 2025 and continues to attract top- class runners from around the world. It is broadcast to over 100 countries and serves as our flagship international event. Last season, Spirit Dancer, owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, became the first horse to win the Bahrain International Trophy twice. Having Sir Alex in attendance was a great privilege and underlined the profile the race now commands. Moments like that are a marker of how far we’ve come. The Bahrain Turf Series complements this, providing a competitive winter campaign of twelve international races between December and March. Together, they make Bahrain a serious option for global racing professionals, while also enhancing the standard of competition at home. We have also seen Bahrain become part of the journey for horses that go on to succeed on the world stage. In previous seasons, Isle of Jura ran here during the winter and went on to win at Royal Ascot. That story captured the imagination and reinforces Bahrain’s value as a stage for emerging international stars.
LAST SEASON SAW HIS MAJESTY THE KING ATTEND THE KING’S CUP FESTIVAL. WHAT DOES THAT EVENT REPRESENT TODAY?
His Majesty the King’s Cup is our most prestigious race, and one of growing international recognition. It was promoted to Group 3 status last season will for the first time carry 400,000 US dollars in prize money. The two-day Festival will take place on 5 and 6 March 2026 and remains a highlight of the national sporting calendar. His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s attendance last season was an honor for everyone at the Club. It reflected the historical importance of the event and its growing significance within the wider landscape of Bahraini sport.
HOW DOES THE BAHRAIN JOCKEY ACADEMY FIT INTO THE CLUB’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE?
The Bahrain Jockey Academy is one of our most important long-term initiatives. It provides structured training and development for aspiring Bahraini riders and represents a major step forward in how we prepare and support our future jockeys. The Academy focuses on technical ability, physical readiness, and international exposure. It is a key part of our broader plan to build a more competitive and professional racing ecosystem. As we grow internationally, we also want to ensure Bahrainis are equipped to compete and succeed at every level.
FINALLY, HOW WOULD YOU SUMMARIZE YOUR PRIORITIES FOR THE SEASON AHEAD?
We are focused on three core priorities. First, to continue raising the standard and profile of our racing program, especially at the international level. Second, to develop the Club as a destination and a place where racing is experienced as an occasion and as part of Bahrain’s social and sporting culture. And third, to invest in the infrastructure and people that will sustain that growth into the future. There is real momentum behind Bahrain’s racing at the moment. Our task is to continue building on that in a way that reflects the vision of our Chairman and delivers lasting benefit for the sport and for the Kingdom.
