Bahrain Showcases Growing Horse Racing Influence at Nakayama Racecourse

His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister at the Court of the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club Supreme Council, affirmed that Bahrain’s growing presence in international horse racing reflects the Royal Vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and embodies the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to strengthen the Kingdom’s standing on the global sporting map.

HH Shaikh Isa made the remarks while attending the horse race held for the HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Memorial Cup at Nakayama Racecourse in Japan. He emphasized that the event represents an important milestone in the cooperation between Bahrain and Japan, particularly in equestrian and horse racing, and gains further significance as it coincides with the official visit of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to Japan. That visit, he noted, yielded strategic outcomes that support the foundations of the bilateral partnership and open new horizons for collaboration across multiple sectors.

HH Shaikh Isa underscored the importance of furthering such cooperation to exchange expertise and strengthen both nations’ presence in international arenas and championships. He praised Japan’s efforts in hosting the race at one of its premier tracks, noting that it reflects the international recognition enjoyed by Bahrain’s equestrian sector and marks an advanced step in expanding the Kingdom’s global footprint.

Following the main 1,800-meter race, HH Shaikh Isa crowned the winners of the HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Memorial Cup. He presented the trophy to a representative of Japanese owner Yuji Hasegawa, whose horse Meursault claimed victory. He also handed awards to trainer Yasutoshi Ikee and jockey Christophe Lemaire, who secured first place. HH Shaikh Isa congratulated all winners and wished them continued success in upcoming competitions.