Sheikha Moza Opens HH The Father Amir Prix 2026 in Doha

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, inaugurated the HH The Father Amir Prix 2026 on January 3, 2026, at Al Shaqab in Doha. The event marks the commencement of Tour 1, which unites international and regional riders across various competition categories.

Tour 1 features riders competing in CSI1, CSI2, and CSI4* classes, with a total prize fund of €538,000. The complete HH The Father Amir Prix four-tour series boasts a total prize money of €3,303,000. Over the course of Tours 1 and 2, a remarkable 248 riders will compete with 524 horses.

The event is organized through a collaboration involving the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Al Shaqab, and the Qatar Olympic Committee. Key partners include Qatar Airways as the Official Airline Partner, United Development Company (UDC) as a Complementary Partner, and Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Group as Transport Partner, among others.

Highlights from Day 1 of the Competition

The opening day showcased a vibrant atmosphere, characterized by competitive spirit and remarkable performances. Events took place in both the Indoor and Outdoor Arenas, featuring various classes designed to promote international-level performance and the development of regional talent.

Throughout the day, competitions included CSI4* events at 140 cm and 145 cm, alongside CSI2* classes at 140 cm and CSI1* classes at 120 cm. Riders demonstrated technical skill and competitive pacing, setting a high standard for the remainder of the tour.

Key Results from Day 1

The first day yielded notable achievements in several classes:

• CSI4* 1.45m (Faults & Time) – Winner: Abdullah Alsharbatly (KSA) on Boeckmanns Lord Pezi Junior | 0 faults | 57.93
• CSI4* 1.40m (Two Phases) – Winner: Janne F. Meyer-Zimmermann (GER) on My Lady Lavista | 0 penalties | 46.49 (Phase 1) / 27.41 (Phase 2)
• CSI2* 1.40m (Two Phases) – Winner: Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) on Diarouge Blue PS | 0 faults | 49.66 (Phase 1) / 30.19 (Phase 2)
• CSI2* 1.25m (Faults & Time) – Joint winners: Ibrahim Hani Bisharat (JOR) on El Nino Bull’s Eye Z and Yassin Khalifa (EGY) on Camelija | 0 faults | 60.70
• CSI1* 1.10m (Special Two-Phase) – Winner: Hasan Alhadi (KSA) on DSP Cessy | 0 penalties | 36.15 (Phase 1) / 26.45 (Phase 2)
• CSI1* 1.20m (Faults & Time) – Winner: Youssef Nassar (EGY) on Orestes van het Tolhuis | 0 faults | 54.69

Janne F. Meyer-Zimmermann expressed satisfaction with her performance, stating, “It was a good day for us. My Lady Lavista jumped very well, and we’re delighted to open Tour 1 with a win.”

Emanuele Gaudiano echoed this sentiment, noting, “Today was a positive start for us. Diarouge Blue PS felt focused and responsive, and we were able to deliver a clear round.”

Abdullah Alsharbatly, also pleased with the results, remarked, “I’m pleased with how Boeckmanns Lord Pezi Junior performed today. It was a smooth round and a positive start to the competition.”

Official Opening Ceremony

An Official Opening Ceremony occurred at 17:30, marking the formal commencement of Tour 1. The event welcomed riders, teams, officials, partners, and spectators to Al Shaqab. The ceremony included artistic performances under the theme “Where Nations Gather,” alongside a drone and light show, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Throughout the event, a fan zone around the Longines Arena will provide entertainment options, cafés, and retail outlets, showcasing Qatari hospitality and cultural heritage. General admission tickets are available at QAR 50 per day, with complimentary access for children under 12. Premium hospitality options are also available.

Looking Ahead to Day 2

Competition will continue on January 4, featuring a full schedule across both arenas, including additional CSI1*, CSI2*, and CSI4* classes. Participants and spectators alike anticipate another day of thrilling equestrian performances.