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A week after the curtain fell on the Qatar-sponsor Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in Paris, discussions continue about the immense gains this global weekend has delivered, the impact of Qatar’s sponsorship and the ambitions for future editions of this prestigious horse racing event.Qatar’s benefits from the event go far beyond securing multiple titles and maintaining the dominance of Qatari-owned Arabian horses in the French capital. They extend to many other aspects beyond the fierce competition at ParisLongchamp. The Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC), under the leadership of Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah, is keen to leverage these gains not only in future renewals, but also in Qatar’s domestic racing season.The local season at Al Rayyan and Al Uqda tracks is set to begin in a few days and this momentum will help elevate local races to the international standards observed at Europe’s most prestigious tracks, through continuous improvements in both race quality and organisation.Following the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, France Galop, the race organiser, monitored the event’s impact and released figures highlighting the 104th edition’s development.Attendance reached 33,000, including many international visitors. The total prize fund for the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe race amounted to €5mn, with €2.85mn awarded to the winner, making it the richest race in Europe and one of the most important worldwide.The weekend’s success was also reflected in exceptional media coverage. The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe race was broadcast live in over 100 countries.On the France Galop social media platforms, the campaign deployed throughout the weekend achieved record results. On X, videos targeted at French, English-speaking and Japanese audiences generated 3.7 million impressions (+1.3mn vs 2024) and over 800,000 views, double last year’s figures. Overall, across all France Galop managed platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok), videos published amassed 2.7mn views, a +111 % increase compared to 2024.Qatari sponsorship – A pillar of excellenceThese figures demonstrate the meeting’s elevated status under Qatari sponsorship, which has been in place since 2008 and has become the backbone of this historic event. The partnership has achieved multiple benefits, most notably promoting purebred Arabian horses in Europe’s and the world’s top races, becoming an integral and even a central part of the official programme of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend. The Qatar Arabian World Cup, held immediately before the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe race, now enjoys massive global attention.Visit Qatar pavilion captures attentionQatar’s sponsorship proves to be more than support to a sports event. It is a strategic partnership between QREC and France Galop. The Visit Qatar pavilion, which attracted large crowds of participants and spectators, demonstrated Visit Qatar’s influence on this global event. The pavilion became a hub for hundreds of stars and racing enthusiasts worldwide and this level of engagement is expected to continue in future editions.France Galop president praises eventGuillaume de Saint-Seine, President of France Galop, declared: “This 104th renewal of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe was a tremendous success: from innovations for a new customer experience to an intense sporting spectacle, and this despite some unpredictable weather. We would like to thank all those who contributed to this success: racing professionals and owners, French and international, France Galop and industry staff, media, partners and obviously the public, whose enthusiasm continues to strengthen this iconic event year after year.”Proud of this overall success, France Galop intends to continue developing the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, further enriching the spectator experience and expanding the international reach of this unique event, which combines top-level sport with quintessential French elegance.The Qatari presence on and off the track translated into remarkable results. On the final day, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani presented the Qatar Arabian World Cup (Group 1 PA) to HE Sheikh Hamad bin Joaan al-Thani, in the presence of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, and Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah, Chairman of QREC. For the third consecutive year, the legendary Al Ghadeer, owned by Al Shaqab Racing, trained by François Rohaut and ridden by Christophe Soumillon — who also partnered him in his two previous triumphs — retained the crown in spectacular fashion.The brilliant six-year-old reaffirmed his dominance in Purebred Arabian racing, and having one the first leg of the Doha Triple Crown at Goodwood in July, is keeping his sights firmly set on capturing the Crown once again for the third consecutive year — an unprecedented feat that may prove difficult to replicate. It seems Al Ghadeer is now competing only against himself, chasing the record he alone set by winning the Triple Crown twice before.Qatari victories extended beyond Al Ghadeer, beginning at Saint-Cloud with two Group 1 PA wins in the three-year-old Arabian colt and filly categories. Subahiyah, owned and bred by Al Shaqab Racing, trained by François Rohaut and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, captured the fillies title, while Laffan, owned and bred by Al Wasmiyah Racing, also trained by François Rohaut and ridden by Maxime Guyon, took the colts contest. The success continued at ParisLongchamp, where the four-year-old Arabian Hajmah, owned and bred by Al Shaqab Racing, trained by Thomas Fourcy and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, claimed the Group 1 PA Qatar Arabian Trophy des Juments (for four-year-old fillies), reaffirming Qatar’s global leadership in purebred Arabian racing. Qatari excellence was not limited to Arabian horses. In Thoroughbred racing, First Look, owned by Wathnan Racing, won the Group 2 Qatar Prix Dollar with a polished performance characterised by courage and determination, defeating eight strong competitors for trainer André Fabre and under jockey Mickael Barzalona.

For the third consecutive year, the legendary Al Ghadeer produced a breathtaking performance to retain the Group 1 PA Qatar Arabian World Cup crown on the final day of Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp Sunday, reaffirming his dominance in Purebred Arabian racingOwned by Al Shaqab Racing, trained by Francois Rohaut and ridden by Christophe Soumillon — his partner in both previous triumphs — the brilliant six-year-old once again proved untouchable on the biggest stage. Al Ghadeer now stands on the brink of an unprecedented third consecutive Doha Triple Crown, chasing the very record he set by winning it twice before.Following the race, HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani crowned HE Sheikh Hamad bin Joaan al-Thani with the Group 1 PA Qatar Arabian World Cup trophy, in the presence of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah, Chairman of Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC), marking a fitting conclusion to the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend.HH Sheikh Abdullah also crowned the winners of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (Group 1). The ceremony was attended by HE Sheikh Ali bin Jassim al-Thani, Ambassador of of Qatar to France and Guillaume de Saint Seine, Chairman of France Galop.The iconic race was won by three-year-old Daryz, representing Aga Khan Studs Sc., who produced a magnificent performance under the direction of trainer Francis-Henri Graffard and a superb ride by Mickael Barzalona. Achieving the greatest victory of his young career – which began only in April – Daryz earned his place among the elite names in the history of the World’s Best Horse RaceThe meeting also featured seven additional races, including four more Group 1 contests. Among those presenting the trophies were HE Sheikh Ali bin Jassim al-Thani, Ambassador of Qatar to France, who crowned the winners of the Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (Group 1); QREC Chairman al-Attiyah, who awarded the winners of the Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac (Group 1); Abdulrahman bin Mansour al-Mansoori, QREC Board Member, who crowned the winners of the Qatar Prix de la Foret (Gr1); and Rashid bin Saed Adiba, Head of the QREC Racing Operations Section, who crowned the winners of the Qatar Prix de la Place de l'Etoile.Historic hat-trick for Al Ghadeer in the Qatar Arabian World Cup (Gr1 PA)Al Ghadeer (Al Mourtajez x Gharraa) once again demonstrated his unrivalled dominance in the Purebred Arabian ranks with a spectacular victory in the Group 1 (PA) Qatar Arabian World Cup over 2000m.The race, featuring a field of 12 of the world’s best Arabians, is the richest and most prestigious contest for the breed, and Al Ghadeer confirmed his status as the undisputed champion.The six-year-old superstar secured his 11th career Group 1 (PA) title. This success also marked a third consecutive Group 1 victory on the card for jockey Soumillon, who earlier guided Diamond Necklace and Puerto Rico to top-level success, completing a remarkable treble on Arc Day.In a race led by Joe Star (Al Mourtajez), as usual setting the pace, Al Ghadeer was restrained from his wide draw to settle at the rear, positioned just behind his main rival HM Alchahine (Al Mourtajez). The tempo was strong but even, and Al Ghadeer travelled comfortably three wide on the best ground, always within striking distance of the leaders.Third last in the false straight but still travelling powerfully, he continued to track HM Alchahine, who moved wide turning for home. Travelling noticeably best of all, Soumillon bided his time before switching his mount to the outside for a clear run. Inside the final 300m, Al Ghadeer drifted slightly left but responded instantly once Soumillon switched his whip to the left hand, showing an excellent turn of foot to surge past and assert his superiority. He stayed on strongly to win by three-quarters of a length from HM Alchahine, with RB Mary Lylah (Al Mourtajez) finishing a clear third.Daryz Triumphs in the Group 1 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de TriompheDaryz, a three-year-old colt, produced a stunning performance to capture the Group 1 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, stepping up to 2400m for the first time and proving his class in Europe’s most prestigious race in a 17 runners race. Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, ridden by Mickael Barzalona, and owned & bred by Aga Khan Studs SC, Daryz delivered a memorable victory, marking a first Arc success for both trainer and jockey.A Group 2 winner, Daryz came into this race on the back of an excellent second to Croix Du Nord (Kitasan Black) in the Gr.2 Qatar Prix Niel, confirming his credentials at the highest level. His powerful finishing kick and composure in a top-class field showed he is a colt of exceptional quality and stamina. He’s now a Gr.1 & Arc winner.Broke well and soon settled in a good spot behind the favourite Minnie Hauk (Frankel) on the inside rail, Daryz was briefly restrained to midfield but remained in touch as the field found their positions. Entering the home straight, he improved quickly into second, still shadowing Minnie Hauk, who had just taken the lead and drifted slightly wide to start her challenge. Inside the final 200 metres, Daryz was still a good second, but with his rival looking resolute in front. However, inside the last 100 metres, the colt found another gear, quickening impressively to join the favourite, and after a thrilling head-to-head battle, Daryz proved the stronger, winning by a head. Minnie Hauk held on for second, while Sosie (Sea The Stars) stayed on well to take third.Diamond Necklace Shines Bright in the Gr.1 Qatar Prix Marcel BoussacDiamond Necklace (St Mark’s Basilica), a classy 2-year-old filly, produced a dazzling display to capture the Group 1 Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac over 1600m, a race for 2-year-old fillies only that brought together a field of eight runners. The Coolmore filly confirmed herself as one of the leading juveniles of the season with a brilliant and determined performance.Trained by Aidan O’Brien, ridden by Christophe Soumillon, and carrying the M Tabor & D Smith & Mrs J Magnier & Westerberg colours, Diamond Necklace continues her rapid rise through the ranks and becomes a Group 1 winner on only her third career start. She came into this race following an impressive Listed victory at Leopardstown, and once again showed class, maturity, and determination at the highest level.Puerto Rico Takes the Group 1 Qatar Prix Jean-Luc LagarderePuerto Rico (Wootton Bassett), a talented 2-year-old colt, continued his rapid progression with a brilliant victory in the Group 1 Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere over 1400m, a race for 2-year-old colts only that brought together a field of nine runners.Trained by Aidan O’Brien, ridden by Christophe Soumillon, and owned by Mrs John Magnier, Michael Tabor & Derrick Smith, Puerto Rico produced a good performance to claim his first Gr.1 success. He completed a Group 1 double on the card for both trainer and jockey, following their earlier victory in the Prix Marcel Boussac with Diamond Necklace.Maranoa Charlie Dominates the Prix de la ForetMaranoa Charlie (Wootton Bassett) confirmed his brilliance with a commanding front-running performance to take the Group 1 Prix de la Foret over 1400m at ParisLongchamp. The race, open to 3-year-olds and up, featured a field of 16 and produced a decisive victory for the progressive colt.Trained by Christopher Head, ridden by Aurelien Lemaître, and owned by Bond Thoroughbred Limited, the 3-year-old colt displayed both speed and toughness to secure his first success at the highest level.Asfoora Flies to Victory in the Group 1 Prix de l’Abbaye de LongchampAsfoora (Flying Artie), the brilliant 7-year-old mare, showcased her trademark speed and determination with a dazzling win in the Group 1 Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp, run over 1000m. The sprint attracted a field of 19 runners, bringing together some of the fastest horses in Europe. Trained by Henry Dwyer, ridden by Oisin Murphy, and owned by Noor Elaine Farm Pty Ltd, the Australian sprinter bounced back in style after a below-par performance in a Group 1.Barnavara Shines Bright in the Gr.1 Prix de l’OpéraBarnavara (Calyx), a talented 3-year-old filly, produced a thrilling front-running display to land the Group 1 Prix de l’Opéra over 2000m, a race for 3-year-old and older fillies and mares which attracted a field of 12. Trained by Jessica Harrington, ridden by Shane Foley, and owned by Alpha Racing, the filly continues her remarkable rise through the ranks.Qatar’s Enduring Partnership: A legacy of vision and excellenceAs the curtain fell on the 2025 renewal of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend in Paris, Qatar’s long-standing sponsorship once again proves to be much more than a support for a sporting event. It stands as a model of strategic partnership and sporting vision.The collaboration between the QREC and France Galop, which began in 2008, has become one of the cornerstones of this world-renowned meeting. Over the years, it has delivered far-reaching benefits, particularly in strengthening the presence of Purebred Arabian racing on Europe’s and the world premier stages. This integration has become a defining feature of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, where the Qatar Arabian World Cup continues to capture worldwide attention. Staged immediately before the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the race attracts immense interest and has evolved into one of the most anticipated moments of the entire weekend.The Qatari sponsorship has also given rise to the prestigious Doha Triple Crown, a visionary initiative that encourages international competition among owners and trainers of Purebred Arabians. The series connects three elite races — the Qatar International Stakes at Goodwood, the Qatar Arabian World Cup at ParisLongchamp, and the HH The Amir Sword at Al Rayyan— with special recognition for any horse capable of winning all three.Winning the Triple Crown is a challenge that only truly exceptional champions can meet — as Ebraz, owned by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al-Thani, first proved in 2020. Yet Al Ghadeer took this achievement to unprecedented heights, completing the treble for the second consecutive year and looks well prepared and very close to complete the treble – a feat that underscores his extraordinary consistency and class at the very highest level.

As the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, sponsored by Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC), draws the world’s racing eyes to Paris, Thursday’s spotlight shines on the Purebred Arabian Horse Sale, organised annually by Arqana at Saint-Cloud Racecourse.The auction opens the associated events of the weekend, underscoring the significant interest in purebred Arabian horses.The growing focus on Arabians reflects one of the most notable successes of Qatar’s long-standing sponsorship of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Qatar’s support for Arabian horse racing on French tracks stretches across the entire winter season, beginning with the Qatar Prix Massoud for three-year-olds making their first appearance—a race that officially launches the European Arabian racing calendar.This momentum continues with a distinguished lineup of major Arabian races, including the Qatar Prix Denouste for three-year-old colts, the Qatar Prix Djebella II for three-year-old fillies, the Gr.2 PA Qatar Prix de l’Élevage for four-year-old and up fillies and mares, the Gr1 PA Qatar Derby des Pur-Sang Arabes for four-year-olds, Gr.2 PA Qatar Coupe de France des Chevaux Arabes for three-year-olds, the Gr1 PA Al Rayyan Cup (Prix Kesberoy) for three-year-olds, the Gr1 PA Doha Cup (Prix Manganate) for four-year-olds and up, the Gr1 PA Qatar Arabian Trophy des Pouliches (three-year-old fillies), the Gr1 PA Qatar Arabian Trophy des Poulains (three-year-old colts), the Gr 1 Qatar Arabian Trophy des Juments (four-year-old fillies) and culminating in the Gr1 PA Qatar Arabian World Cup, staged on the final day of the weekend as the highlight immediately preceding the weekend’s centrepiece, the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.Given this remarkable calendar showcasing a wide diversity of races, it is entirely fitting that Arqana’s Pure Arabian Horse Sale has earned such prominence both in France and on the global stage. This year’s auction catalogue features 97 lots, including 36 two-year-olds, two yearlings, 31 horses currently in training and 28 of breeding stock. Among the horses on offer, 13 are from Al Shaqab Racing, including seven horses in training and six horses of o breeding stock.Last year’s sale drew a significant international turnout of breeders, owners and trainers, achieving outstanding results. Of the 106 lots presented, 76 were sold, representing 71.7%, with total sales reaching €3,580,000.