Al Marzooqi makes history as first Emirati to qualify for prestigious FEI World Cup finals
Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi has made history as the first Emirati showjumper to qualify for the FEI World Cup Finals, securing his place among the sport's elite.
The 21-year-old, who finished second in the Arab League Middle East standings, will represent the UAE on one of the sport's grandest stages in Basel, Switzerland, from April 2 to 6, 2025.
The FEI World Cup Finals in show jumping are one of the most prestigious indoor championships in equestrian sport, organized annually by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI). The event brings together the top riders and horses from various regional leagues around the world to compete for the coveted title.
'Qualifying for the FEI World Cup Finals is an incredible honour,' said Al Marzooqi. 'Being the only Emirati from the Arab League makes it even more special. I am excited to compete among the world's best and showcase my skills on this prestigious platform.'
Al Marzooqi will compete on his Olympic mount, Enjoy de la Mure (Vigo Cece x Sable Rose), owned by Al Shira'aa Farms. Founded by Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the company has stables in both the UAE and the UK. He will be among 42 qualified athletes from 23 countries vying for the 2025 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup title.
A Rising Star
Al Marzooqi's qualification marks another milestone in an extraordinary 18-month rise in the sport. His ascent was recognized when he was named the Longines FEI Rising Star, a testament to his talent and determination. Currently ranked 102nd in the Longines world rankings and fifth in the U25 category, he is fast becoming one of the sport's most promising young competitors.
His recent achievements include representing the UAE at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he reached the individual final, and securing both an individual silver medal and a team bronze at the 19th Asian Games in 2023. He also won the prestigious FEI Zangersheide Sires of the World in Lanaken last September. Notably, at just 15 years old, he became the first UAE athlete to win a Youth Olympic medal when he clinched silver at the 2018 Games in Buenos Aires.
Gratitude for Success
Al Marzooqi was quick to acknowledge the unwavering support that has shaped his journey, particularly from UAE leadership and the equestrian community.
'First and foremost, I would like to thank Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative of Al Ain Region, for their dedication to the development of equestrian sport,' he said.
'Special thanks to Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose vision and commitment have been instrumental in raising the standards of show jumping in the UAE.'
'Sheikha Fatima introduced youth categories that gave riders like me the chance to gain experience and compete at a high level. Her support of the UAE International Tour has allowed us to test our skills against some of the best European riders, helping us improve and gain confidence,' he added.
Al Marzooqi also expressed his gratitude to his family and mentors. 'My father and family have been my pillars of support throughout my journey, and I owe them everything. I am also incredibly thankful for our Chef d'Equipe, William Funnel, whose leadership and training have played a crucial role in my development.'
A Testament to UAE Equestrian Excellence
Al Marzooqi's success highlights the impact of Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership in elevating UAE equestrian sports. As Chairwoman of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi Ladies Clubs, and Al Shira'aa Farms, Sheikha Fatima has been a driving force behind the nation's equestrian achievements.
Her efforts in establishing dedicated youth programs and promoting female participation through the Fatima bint Mubarak Academy (FBMA) have paved the way for Emirati riders to compete at the highest levels.
As he prepares for his World Cup Finals debut, Al Marzooqi will return to Paris to compete in the Saut Hermès as part of his final preparations. With a strong support system, an elite horse, and an unwavering determination, the UAE's rising star is ready to take on his biggest challenge yet in Basel 2025.
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