Al Shaqab Thursday hosted the opening day of the prestigious FEI Group VII Finals, marking the first time the event has been held in Qatar. The Longines Outdoor Arena welcomed the region’s top emerging riders for a landmark edition that highlights youth equestrian sport across the Middle East and North Africa.The Finals bring together the highest-ranked Children, Junior, and Young Riders from across Group VII following a year of dedicated qualification. Many of these young athletes are progressing along the official pathway toward the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, making this inaugural hosting a key milestone for both Qatar and the wider region.Riders from Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Algeria and Libya are competing in Doha, creating one of the strongest and most diverse Group VII line-ups to date.Day one featured one open class and three FEI classes, each demanding technical precision, rhythm, and control. In the CSIYJ-A Special Two-Phase (274.2.5) — 1.20m, Mohammed Eisa al-Bukhari claimed first place, with Abdalla Hamad Ali al-Kirbi and Saleh Mufrrej Ali Mohamed al-Karbi completing the podium.Commenting on the opening day, Khalid Sanad al-Naimi, Event Director at Al Shaqab, said:"Today marks a proud and historic moment for Al Shaqab and for equestrian sport in the region. Hosting the FEI Group VII Finals in Qatar for the first time reflects our commitment to youth development, excellence, and elevating the competitive landscape across the Middle East and North Africa. The performances on Day 1 highlight the strength of the next generation of riders."