Al Zeer dominates UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses in Belgium

Before a jubilant crowd of nearly 50,000 passionate spectators packed into the historic Waregem Racecourse in Belgium, an unforgettable chapter was written in the illustrious annals of Purebred Arabian racing.

On a day that will be remembered as a true showcase of equestrian brilliance, Al Zeer rose to the occasion, claiming a historic victory in the Belgian leg of the prestigious UAE President’s Cup Series—now celebrating its grand 32nd edition as one of the most revered and globally followed stages in the sport.

Al Zeer, a five-year-old stallion, sired by Al Mamun Monlau out of Assma Al Khalediah (by Amer), was in the colours of Mohammed Bin Fahad Al Attiyah.

Trainer by Francois Rohaut and ridden by jockey Lukas Delozier, Al Zeer delivered a stunning performance. The atmosphere inside the 2,170-meter Group 3 showdown, boasting a glittering €200,000 prize purse, was nothing short of electric.

Twelve of the world’s finest Purebred Arabian horses thundered from the gates, each carrying the hopes and pride of their connections.

The early stages saw Joe Star (by Al Mourtajez out of Guest Del Falot), representing the ambitions of owner Nasser Hilal Al Alawi under Mickael Forest, seize control with an imperious run, dictating the rhythm of the contest as the field swept into the decisive furlongs.

But it was in the heart-pounding final strides that destiny revealed itself. With unrelenting courage and a burst of sheer power, Al Zeer surged from the pack like a warrior answering his call to glory, his strides lengthening with every heartbeat as the roaring crowd willed him forward. In a dramatic duel to the finish, he wrested the lead from Joe Star in the final breath of the race, crossing the wire a neck ahead in a dazzling time of 2:24:01 minutes.

Joe Star, gallant in defeat, claimed a valiant second, while Nabucco Al Maury (by Azadi out of Nemosie Al Maury), guided with poise by Guillaume Guedj-Gay, finished strongly to secure third.

For the UAE President’s Cup, it was yet another glittering jewel added to the crown of a series that continues to celebrate the heritage, strength, and majesty of Purebred Arabian horses on the grandest international stages.

The presentation ceremony was attended by Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary General of the Higher Organizing Committee of the UAE President’s Cup Series, Khalid Al Qaidi, representative of the UAE Embassy in Belgium, and Nelly Philippo Herman, President of the Belgian Arabian Horse Association.

Musallam Al Amri, Member of the Higher Organizing Committee of the UAE President’s Cup Series, said: “We are proud of the tremendous success of the Belgian leg, reflected in the exceptional attendance, fierce competition, and high level of participation from Europe’s leading stables and breeders.

“This underlines the Cup’s status as one of the world’s most prestigious and historic events for Purebred Arabian horses. The guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, continues to inspire us to elevate the profile of Arabian horses worldwide.

“We extend our congratulations to owner Mohammed Bin Fahad Al Attiyah for Al Zeer’s remarkable victory in Belgium.”

The UAE President’s Cup continues to reinforce its leading role in celebrating the Arabian horse’s heritage, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to supporting equestrian sports globally, and promoting the legacy of the Purebred Arabian across international racecourses.

Following the Belgium lef, the competition continues in Turkey on September 7, featuring prize money of $250,000. The series then shifts to England on September 13, with one of the biggest purses of the month at £400,000.

Later in September, attention turns to Poland on September 28, where another €200,000 will be contested.

The spotlight then moves to North Africa, beginning with Egypt on October 25, offering Dhs500,000, followed just one day later by Libya on October 26, with an impressive Dhs1 million purse.

The season’s momentum builds toward its climax in the Gulf region, with the final scheduled stop in Saudi Arabia on November 21, featuring the series’ richest prize of Dhs1.5 million.

The UAE President’s Cup continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of Arabian horse racing, as it not only preserves the rich heritage of the sport but also creates exceptional opportunities for breeders, trainers, and jockeys.