Doha: The organizing committee of the Doha Equestrian Tour announced that all preparations for the launch of the 1st edition of HH the Father Amir Equestrian Prix are set. The event marks the opening championship of the Doha Equestrian Tour's new season, to take place at Longines Arena at Al Shaqab from January 2 to 31.
According to Qatar News Agency, the championship will feature participation from more than 240 riders from an elite group of local and international competitors. The event is expected to witness strong competitions, especially with the total prize money exceeding EUR 3.3 million, making it one of the largest tournaments in terms of value and turnout regionally.
The organizing committee affirmed that the inaugural edition will serve as a strong outset for the Doha Equestrian Tour 2026 season and will reflect Qatar's status as a global destination for equestrian sport. President of the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Badr bin Mohammed Al Darwish, emphasized that HH the Father Amir Equestrian Prix is one of the tour's most prominent strategic initiatives. The Doha Tour includes ten international championships, ranging from one to five-star events, running from January 2 to April 4, with total prize money exceeding EUR 10 million.
Al Darwish highlighted that HH the Father Amir Equestrian Prix aligns with global standards and reflects Qatar's vision of leveraging sport for sustainable development and strengthening international presence. It also serves as the opening event of the Doha Equestrian Tour. He noted the championship's special symbolism due to its association with HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, who contributed significantly to Qatar's sports infrastructure and cultural identity in equestrian sport.
The Qatar Equestrian Federation views HH the Father Amir Equestrian Prix as a valuable opportunity to enhance Qatar's global equestrian standing, expand international rider participation, and support equestrian sport locally and regionally. The event also acts as an important driver of the sports economy, attracting visitors, delegations, and stimulating equestrian-related investments.
HH the Father Amir Equestrian Prix will coincide with other global sporting events in Qatar, enhancing integration, economic and media impact, and strengthening Doha's reputation as a global sports hub. Secretary General of the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Sheikh Ahmad bin Nooh Al-Thani, stated that the Doha Equestrian Tour, led by this event, represents the federation's approach to building a sustainable sporting legacy, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
The Secretary General added that the organizing committee ensured that the 1st edition would meet International Equestrian Federation (FEI) standards, with a program including various categories and competitions. All organizational and technical requirements at Longines Arena at Al Shaqab have been finalized, aiming to deliver a comprehensive sporting experience and enhance the Doha Equestrian Tour's international reputation.