Rashid Al Muhairi wins World Endurance Championship in Romania

The United Arab Emirates has once again made history in the world of equestrian sport. Young Emirati rider Rashid Mohammed Al Muhairi delivered a stunning performance to claim the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Riders and Juniors. The prestigious event took place in Buftea, Romania, and tested the endurance, skill, and strong bond between horse and rider across a grueling 120-kilometer course.

This victory did not come easily, as the championship attracted some of the best young riders from 28 countries around the globe. But Al Muhairi’s determination, patience, and riding expertise helped him secure a memorable first-place finish in the individual category. He crossed the finish line with a time of 5 hours, 33 minutes, and 1 second, riding with remarkable consistency and control throughout the race.

For the UAE, this win carries special significance. It marked the fifth consecutive title for the nation in this world championship and the eighth overall victory in its history of participation. This shows the strength of the UAE’s endurance riding program, which has produced many world-class riders and horses over the years.

Strong competition from Bahrain

While Al Muhairi’s win was outstanding, the riders from Bahrain also showed excellent performances. Saud Mubarak of Bahrain claimed the second spot, finishing just a little over a minute later with a time of 5:34:25 hours. His compatriot, Isa Al Anzi, finished third with a time of 5:36:31 hours. The close times highlight how competitive the race was and how small differences in endurance, speed, and strategy can decide the outcome.

Team event results

In the team competition, which looks at the combined performance of riders from each country, France secured the first place, followed by Spain in second, and Italy in third. These results show the global spread of talent in endurance riding, with European nations continuing to perform strongly in team categories.

Why this win matters for the UAE

For the UAE, equestrian sports are not just about competition but also about tradition, culture, and heritage. Endurance riding, in particular, has deep roots in the region where horses were once essential for travel, survival, and pride. Today, the UAE has become a world leader in the sport, thanks to continuous investment in training, horse care, and international participation.

Al Muhairi’s win also shows the strength of the next generation of Emirati riders. At a young age, he has already proven his talent on the world stage. Victories like these inspire other young riders in the UAE to follow in his footsteps and keep the nation’s winning tradition alive.

The challenge of a 120 km endurance race

An endurance race is one of the toughest tests in equestrian sport. Covering 120 kilometers means both horse and rider face mental and physical challenges. Riders must carefully balance speed and stamina, ensuring their horses remain healthy and strong throughout the journey. The race is divided into several stages with vet checks, where horses are examined to make sure they are fit to continue. Only the best-prepared combinations make it to the finish line.

Al Muhairi’s ability to complete the race at such a fast pace without compromising his horse’s health highlights the high standard of training and preparation that the UAE team brings to international competitions.

UAE’s dominance in endurance riding

This is not the first time the UAE has shown its power in endurance riding. Over the past two decades, Emirati riders have dominated world championships, often finishing on the podium and raising the UAE flag high on the global stage. This new title adds another golden chapter to that history.

With five wins in a row at this specific championship, the UAE has now established a winning dynasty that reflects the nation’s commitment to excellence in sports.

Looking ahead

The championship in Romania has once again put endurance riding in the spotlight. For young riders like Al Muhairi, this is only the beginning. His success is expected to open doors for future competitions, where he can continue to shine and bring more glory to his country.

The UAE’s sports authorities and equestrian clubs are likely to use this win as a motivation to strengthen their programs, ensuring that more young riders are trained to compete at the highest level.

Rashid Mohammed Al Muhairi’s victory is not just a personal achievement but a national triumph. It reflects the UAE’s passion for equestrian sport, its dedication to developing young talent, and its ability to remain a global leader in endurance riding. With every win, the UAE continues to build a legacy of pride, tradition, and excellence in the equestrian world.