UAE's HM Al Shahen triumphs in Rome, remarkable victory in UAE President's Cup Series
ABU DHABI (WAM) The UAE's HM ALCHAHINE delivered a standout performance to capture the title in the fifth leg of the prestigious UAE President's Cup Series for Purebred Arabian Horses, held at the historic Capannelle Racecourse in Rome, Italy, on Sunday, 18th May 2025.The race forms part of the 32nd edition of the globally recognised series.The UAE President's Cup continues to make its mark across major European racing circuits, further strengthening its presence and impact in the international Arabian racing landscape.The series is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, whose visionary leadership has elevated the global profile of Arabian horse racing. The Cup Series aligns with long-term goals to support breeders, owners, and the Arabian horse industry worldwide.Bred from by Al Mourtajez x Al Chyhanah by Munjiz, HM ALCHAHINE is owned by Hilal Al Alawi, trained by Élisabeth Bernard (Jean-François Bernard team), and was ridden to victory by Cristian Demuro. The colt surged into the lead at the final turn and accelerated powerfully down the stretch to secure a decisive win, his eighth victory out of nine career starts.The Group 2 turf race was contested over 2000 metres and drew a field of 16 of the finest Arabians from across Italy and Europe. The total prize purse was €300,000.HM ALCHAHINE completed the race in 2:09.8 minutes.In second place was Afjan (TM Fred Texas x Mazoon by Amer), representing Al Shaqab Racing, trained by Jean de Mieulle and ridden by Olivier D'Andigne.Third place went to Extra Time (Valiant Boy x Sand Witchh by Burning Sand), owned by J. Nevens, trained by David Morisson, and ridden by Alexis Lemer.The race was attended by Abdulla Ali Al Saboosi, UAE Ambassador to the Italian Republic, and Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the Higher Organising Committee of the UAE President's Cup Series. Also present was Mattia Cadrobbi, President of the Italian Arabian Horse Association, along with distinguished diplomatic representatives from various friendly nations.
Faisal Al Rahmani commented, 'We are proud of the success of the Italy leg, which continues to embody the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. We extend our deepest gratitude for His Highness's generous support and pioneering role in advancing the Arabian horse legacy. Italy has become a key destination for champions and a gateway to elite European and Gulf races. Congratulations to Hilal Al Alawi for this distinguished UAE victory with HM Al Shahen, which reflects the outstanding capabilities of Emirati stables on the global stage.'
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