QREC Unveils 2025-26 Qatar Horse Racing Calendar
HH The Amir Sword Festival extended to four days for the first time
The Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) has announced the horse racing calendar for the 2025-26 season, featuring 70 race meetings across Al Rayyan and Al Uqda racecourses.
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Chaired by Hamad bin Abdulrahman Al Attiyah, QREC finalized the schedule after a comprehensive review, incorporating feedback from owners, trainers, and technical experts.
One of the biggest highlights is the expansion of HH The Amir Sword Festival, which will run for four consecutive days from February 11–14, 2026, at Al Rayyan Racecourse. For the first time, the festival will feature 32 races, with two days of dirt racing followed by two days on turf.
Expanded HH The Amir Sword Festival
QREC Racing Manager Abdulla Al Kubaisi explained the upgrades:
“For the first time, the festival will run across four days – from February 11 to 14, 2026 – at Al Rayyan. The HH The Amir Trophy for Thoroughbreds and the HH The Amir Sword for Purebred Arabians will headline the final day’s card.”
New additions include the Qatar International Thoroughbred Handicap Cup (2,400m, open to international runners), as well as the Middle Distance Cup for Local Purebred Arabians and the Sand Sprint Cup for Thoroughbreds.
Full 2025-26 Racing Season
The season will begin on October 15, 2025, and conclude on April 16, 2026, with:
- 70 race meetings: 46 at Al Rayyan and 24 at Al Uqda
- 547 races total, up from 543 last season
- Season openers and closers: Al Ghariyah Cup (Oct. 15) and End of Season Cup (Apr. 16)
Key racing days will include the Qatar Derby, Qatar Gold Sword and Trophy, HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani Rifle, and HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy, among others.
Supporting Local Jockeys
Al Kubaisi also highlighted QREC’s commitment to nurturing local riding talent:
“QREC will continue to support Qatari jockeys in line with its long-term strategy. Our riders are currently attending a two-month training course at the South African Jockey Academy.”
The 2025-26 calendar is designed to accommodate a wide range of horses, from Purebred Arabians to Thoroughbreds, ensuring opportunities for both local and international talent.