Eljas du Bienn stormed to a 3¼-length success in the £150,000 Group 3 event at Newbury Racecourse on Friday, leaving Nehmo de Carrere in second place and establishing itself as the standout performer. Trained by J. F. Bernard in France and ridden by Antoine Werle, the three-year-old colt carrying the colours of owner Sheikh Hamed Khadim Butti Al Hamed justified its billing among the leading contenders in the competitive field of five. The triumph came in the first UK leg of the 33rd edition of the series, which WAM reported as marking the historic British venue’s debut as host of the UAE President’s Cup.
The Higher Organising Committee had previewed a strong international lineup for the 1,600-metre turf contest featuring horses from leading studs across Europe and the Middle East. Nehmo de Carrere, prepared by Xavier Thomas-Demeaulte for Sheikh Khalaf Rabah Alshammari, pushed the winner hardest before settling for the runner-up spot. Lella de la Gloire, also trained by Bernard for owner Mohammed Alhuzami, completed the podium while Amir Athbah and RB Tryst finished further adrift according to the official results.
Faisal Al Rahmani, Secretary-General of the Higher Organising Committee of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, said ‘We are pleased to stage the Prestigious Cup races for the first time at the historic Newbury Racecourse, which represents a qualitative addition to the agenda of the 33rd edition and reflects the distinguished global standing the series has established at the world’s major international racecourses, thanks to substantial support of the wise leadership.’ He added that the selection of Newbury reflected the committee’s commitment to staging races at historic courses and within major global festivals. The series supports plans to develop the Arabian horse racing industry and sustain backing for owners and breeders worldwide, the Higher Organising Committee has stated.
A second British leg is scheduled for Doncaster Racecourse on Sept. 12 as part of the St Leger Festival, continuing the event’s emphasis on partnering with prominent international meetings according to the organising committee. Earlier in the season Joe Star claimed the Netherlands leg of the UAE President’s Cup on July 28, a result that Big News Network reported as the seventh stop in the current edition. The committee’s announcements indicate the series now features legs at venues including ParisLongchamp, Churchill Downs and San Siro alongside its British dates.
The UAE President’s Cup is recognised as the oldest Purebred Arabian race series, according to the official series website. By offering high-level competition and substantial prizes the event encourages the acquisition, breeding and care of Arabian horses while helping preserve the breed’s authentic heritage. Organisers have highlighted how such races elevate the breed’s standing and strengthen its presence at significant international festivals.
