UAE reigns at Royal Windsor as Al Mazrouei and Al Khayari lead dominant 1-2 finish
The UAE reaffirmed its global supremacy in endurance riding with a commanding performance at the prestigious Royal Windsor Endurance, where Emirati riders clinched a stunning 1-2 finish in the headline CEI3* 160km ride — the crown jewel of the event.
Leading the charge was Saif Al Mazrouei, riding Bullio Quasillo for MRM Stables, who reclaimed his crown nine years after his first triumph at Windsor in 2016. Al Mazrouei's performance was a masterclass in strategy and stamina as he completed the demanding five-loop course in 7 hours, 19 minutes, and 34 seconds, averaging an impressive 21.84 km/h.
Just 16 seconds behind him was compatriot Saeed Hamoud Al Khayari aboard Dragon Feuillee from M7 Endurance Stables, a past winner in 2017. Bahrain's Fahad Helal Al Khatri rounded out the podium in third on Fizz Fageole, ensuring a high-calibre regional showing at this celebrated venue.
The UAE's triumph marks their seventh win in 12 editions of Royal Windsor Endurance, reinforcing their position as the most successful nation in the event's history. The competition — set against the majestic backdrop of Windsor Great Park — is part of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, a fixture on the international equestrian calendar known for attracting elite global talent.
Commenting on the UAE win Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Equestrian Club, said: 'It is with immense pride and heartfelt admiration that I congratulate the UAE team on their outstanding victory at Royal Windsor Endurance.
Where History Meets Glory
'This prestigious competition is steeped in history as it is held in the iconic settings of Windsor Great Park in the UK and was often witnessed by the late Queen Elizabeth II. This sport is a true test of endurance, and skill, and reveals the deep connection between horse and rider. For the UAE team to emerge victorious on this global stage is not just a testament to their athletic excellence but to their discipline, preparation, and unwavering spirit.
'This win adds another glorious chapter to the UAE's legacy in the world of international endurance riding which was built on the glories achieved by its passionate leaders like Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE and Minister of Defence,' Sheikh Rashed added.
'Sheikh Mohammed won the FEI World Endurance Championship in 2012 and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed won this event in 2014 and their legacy continues through this present generation of riders that have been thoroughly inspired and supported by them.'
Riding with National Pride
Ahmed Al Kaabi, Acting General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, who was also the Chef d'Equipe of the UAE team, commented: 'Our riders demonstrated not only physical endurance but also strategic brilliance and true sportsmanship. Their performance reflected the highest values of Emirati equestrian tradition — a commitment to excellence, respect for the horse, and pride in representing the nation.
'Bahrain have always been a strong contender and they challenged fiercely, but our trainers from MRM, M7 and F3 Stables had their strategy in place and their plans were perfect to make this one of the biggest wins of all time as we dominated the main event and made sure to be on the podium in the other two races as well.
'I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to the trainers, veterinary teams, support staff, and everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes,' Al Kaabi added. 'Victories like these are never achieved alone and they are the result of a collective effort driven by passion and unity and we hope it serves as an inspiration to our younger riders and as a symbol of what can be achieved when preparation meets determination.'
Saud Mubarak stars for Bahrain
Elsewhere, Bahrain's Saud Mubarak took victory in the CEI2* 120 km ride on Geronimo Du Sauveterr, narrowly edging out UAE riders Ahmad Abdulrahman Al Bastaki and Essa Rashed Al Mazrouei, both representing M7 Endurance Stables.
The CEI1* 100 km competition saw Lea Vandekerckhove of France triumph aboard Balkan Biliska AA, a horse provided by F3 Stables. Emiratis Rashid Mohammed Al Baloushi (Dorkkan De Fignols) and Manal Abdulla Al Balooshi (Bullio Charles) secured second and third, respectively.
The Windsor endurance course offered a unique test through the historic Windsor Great Park, with riders navigating varied terrain and iconic landmarks such as The Copper Horse, Long Walk, and Smith's Lawn, home to elite polo. Riders began at dawn, tackling mixed terrain and changing light conditions over woodland, grass, water, and road segments.
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