Manama: 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), attended the closing ceremony of the 2025-2026 horseracing season held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
According to Bahrain News Agency, His Highness noted that the recent successes of Bahrain's horse racing sector serve as a strong incentive to continue efforts aimed at realising the visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
His Highness expressed 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. His Highness underscored Bahrain's commitment to further developing local races and excelling in hosting international competitions.
His Highness 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 horse racing sports, as reflected in the outstanding success of the 2025-2026 racing season.
Additionally, His Highness 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, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa honoured the season's top performers, presenting the Leading Owner Award to HH Shaikh Nader bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and HH Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa of Al Mohamediya Racing Team. The Leading Trainer Award was presented to Fawzi Nass, accepted on his behalf by his son, Abdullah Fawzi Nass, while the Leading Arabian Horse Trainer Award went to Yousif Taher.
The Leading Jockey Award was awarded to Ebrahim Nader, and the Leading Apprentice Jockey Award was presented to Qasim Jameel. His Highness congratulated all award recipients and wished continued success for all participants in the upcoming season.
Furthermore, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman 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, 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, expressed profound gratitude to His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa 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 His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman in advancing the development and accomplishments of the racing season. He noted that the season 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.
Several senior officials were in attendance, highlighting the significance of horseracing in Bahrain's cultural and sporting landscape.