Manama: The Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC) achieved a new milestone with the Asian Racing Federation announcing the upgrade of the His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup for imported horses to Group 3 international status, reflecting the continued progress of Bahraini equestrian sports under the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Asian Racing Federation and the Asian Pattern Committee also approved the inclusion of the Al Adiyat Cup, one of the Bahrain International Trophy races, in the list of internationally classified 'Listed Races'.
Yusuf Osama Buheji, Chief Executive Officer of REHC, expressed pride in the advancement of Bahraini horse racing to higher international levels. He said the Crown Prince Cup's elevation to Group 3 status highlights the distinguished reputation and organisational success of the event over the years.
Buheji commended the leadership of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister's Court and Chairman of the High Committee of REHC, in developing Bahraini horse racing in line with a strategic vision to position Bahrain as a global racing destination.
The upgrade of the Crown Prince Cup to Group 3 level and the inclusion of the Al Adiyat Cup as a Listed Race extend Bahrain's series of achievements in international racing, following the elevation of His Majesty the King's Cup, the Bahrain International Trophy, and the Cups of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. This brings the total number of internationally classified races in Bahrain to seven.
The His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Cup for imported horses will be held as part of the Crown Prince Cup Festival on January 29-30, 2026, featuring an expanded programme of 16 races over two days.