Doha, Qatar – The Longines Outdoor Arena at Al Shaqab witnessed thrilling competition as Tour 2 of H H The Father Amir’s Prix 2026 commenced yesterday. Swiss rider Nadja Peter Steiner and Nice Van’T Zorgvliet secured victory in the CSI5* 1.50m Faults & Time event, while Qatari equestrian Mohammed K. Al Baker shone in the CSI5* 1.40m Two Phases, demonstrating the growing strength of Qatar’s show jumping program. The event drew top international and regional talent, setting the stage for a competitive series.
The competition, which began on January 9th, 2026, featured a range of classes across CSI5*, CSI3*, and CSI1* levels, attracting riders from Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano and Saudi Arabia’s Abdulrahman Alrajhi followed Steiner on the podium in the headline CSI5* event, highlighting the international caliber of the field. The event underscores Qatar’s commitment to hosting world-class equestrian events.
Qatar’s Mohammed K. Al Baker Triumphs in Home Territory
Mohammed K. Al Baker’s win in the CSI5* 1.40m Two Phases was a highlight for the home crowd. Riding Dukhan 3, Al Baker completed a clear round in 23.68 seconds, besting fellow Qatari rider Ghanim Nasser Al Qadi and France’s Megane Moissonnier. According to Al Baker, winning at Al Shaqab holds particular significance due to the strong support from local fans.
This victory builds on Qatar’s increasing presence in international show jumping. The nation has invested heavily in equestrian facilities and rider development programs, aiming to become a prominent force in the sport. Al Baker’s success is a testament to these efforts, showcasing the talent emerging from Qatar’s equestrian community.
International Riders Dominate Higher Classes
While Qatari riders excelled in the 1.40m event, the CSI5* 1.50m Faults & Time was dominated by international competitors. Nadja Peter Steiner’s winning time of 59.30 seconds edged out Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano by just over half a second. Steiner praised her mare, Nice Van’T Zorgvliet, for her fighting spirit and performance.
Additionally, Gaudiano secured a win in the CSI3* 1.40m Two Phases, demonstrating his versatility and skill. The CSI3* 1.35m Special Two-Phase saw an Egyptian one-two finish, with Ismail Osama El Borai taking first place. These results illustrate the diverse range of talent participating in the event.
Several other riders also achieved notable results. Bader Alfard of Saudi Arabia won the CSI3* 1.25m Faults & Time, while Ali Oman A H Al Ansari continued his strong performance at Al Shaqab, winning the CSI1* 1.10m Special Two-Phase. Egypt’s Abdallah Haitham and stallion Consagros were victorious in the CSI1* 1.20m Faults & Time.
The event also featured a National Competition 0.60m Optimum Time, won by Almaha Mansoor Al Sulaitin on Brooklyn, providing a platform for emerging Qatari riders. The competition serves as a crucial stepping stone for developing future equestrian stars.
The second day of competition promises further excitement, with the CSI5* Six Bar Competition 1.50m as the main attraction. Organizers anticipate continued strong performances from both international and Qatari riders. The ongoing series will be closely watched by equestrian enthusiasts as riders vie for points towards the H H The Father Amir’s Prix 2026 title. The final standings and potential contenders remain uncertain as the competition progresses.
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
Al Shaqab Official Website
Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI)
