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The Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club has unveiled a striking new identity for the 2025 H.H. The Amir Sword Festival, incorporating the traditional 'bisht' as its symbol ahead of the three-day spectacular at Al Rayyan Racecourse from February 13-15.
Al Ghadir stands as the headline act, seeking a second consecutive Triple Crown when he lines up in the feature H.H. The Amir Sword. The announcement comes as organisers confirm 28 international runners will compete across the festival, marking significant growth in overseas participation.
HE Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, QREC Chairman, speaking at Sunday's press conference, said: "It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this occasion, as we are only a few days away from the start of the His Highness the Amir's Sword Festival, an event that holds great significance for the entire Qatari equestrian community and particularly for the horse racing family. It is an event that we all eagerly await each season with great anticipation."
The festival's status is reflected in its enhanced prize fund, with Al Mohannadi adding: "The total prize value for the festival is US$10mn. The prize for the last two races on the final day of the festival will be US$2.5mn each."
Bader Mohammed Al Darwish, Acting CEO, highlighted the significance of the new identity, stating: "The new identity of the festival reflects our heritage and the Qatari legacy that we take pride in. The inclusion of the 'bisht' in the identity is significant, as it is a tradition we proudly wear at major international events."
Track preparations have been thoroughly tested, with Racing Manager Abdullah Al Kubaisi confirming: "The Al Rayyan racetrack was tested during the Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani's Rifle Race after the maintenance work was completed, confirming its readiness to host the festival. The races will take place over the three days of the festival, with strong and anticipated races each day due to the high level of horses participating in every race."
The renovated Al Rayyan facility promises top-class amenities for all participants, reinforcing Qatar's commitment to staging world-class racing events.