REHC unveils 2025-2026 racing season with international focus

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) has approved its racing calendar for the 2025-2026 season, which will kick off on Friday, October 31, 2025. The season will feature a diverse program of 29 local and international races and include a range of new initiatives and events aimed at enhancing the sport in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The calendar, which follows directives from the Club’s High Committee, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, seeks to solidify Bahrain’s status as a leading global destination for horseracing. The upcoming season aims to build on past successes with a “qualitative leap” in event organization and race quality, according to REHC CEO Yusuf Osama Buheji.

A major highlight of the season will be His Majesty the King’s Cup Festival, which has seen its prize money increased to $400,000. This two-day festival, scheduled for March 5 and 6, 2026, is expected to attract elite international participants. The Bahrain International Trophy (Group 2), now in its seventh edition, will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, and will be broadcast live in over 100 countries.

The Bahrain Turf Series will also continue with 12 races held in several stages, culminating in the final round on March 5, 2026. Additionally, the Crown Prince’s Cup Festival is set for January 29 and 30, 2026, with the season’s finale on April 17, 2026. The calendar will also see the return of night races and the second edition of the Future Stars Series for locally bred horses.

To enhance the public’s experience, the REHC announced an electronic ticketing system with different service tiers and the inauguration of a new main entrance gate. The events area will host entertainment activities and special celebrations for national occasions, including the RoyalTea Evening and a Ramadhan Nights Festival. Mr. Buheji thanked all partners and sponsors for their ongoing support in developing the sport and strengthening Bahrain’s regional and international standing.