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The Kingdom of Bahrain has reinforced its commitment to British racing by extending its sponsorship of three prestigious races at The July Festival until 2029. The deal, encompassing the Gr.3 Bahrain Trophy, Gr.2 Princess of Wales's Stakes, and Gr.2 Kingdom of Bahrain July Stakes, marks a significant milestone in the longest-standing sponsorship at Newmarket's premier summer meeting.
Since 1991, the Bahrain Trophy has emerged as a crucial test for staying 3YOs over 1m 5f. Godolphin have dominated recent renewals, securing three victories in four years. The roll of honour features notable winners including Persian Punch and St Leger victor Masked Marvel.
The Princess of Wales's Stakes, first run in 1894, gained further international prominence when 2024 winner Giavellotto went on to capture the Hong Kong Vase at Sha Tin, worth US$2.8 million. Meanwhile, the historic July Stakes, Britain's oldest 2YO race dating back to 1786, saw trainer Aidan O'Brien claim a third triumph with Whistlejacket in 2024.
The partnership extends beyond racing, with the Bahrain Turf Club utilising the July Course's unique setting to host distinguished guests, including Sir Alex Ferguson, whose Spirit Dancer claimed consecutive victories in the Gr.2 Bahrain International Trophy.
Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, speaking from The Bahrain Turf Club, said: "The relationship between The Jockey Club and The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to go from strength to strength, and we are delighted to be extending this partnership with them.
"As our longest-standing sponsor at The July Festival, with its support of the Bahrain Trophy stretching back over 30 years, we are truly grateful to His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa and the Bahrain Turf Club for continuing to support not only these three races but also Newmarket Racecourses and The Jockey Club."
Yusuf Buheji, CEO of the Bahrain Turf Club, emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership: "The news underlines our commitment not only to supporting British racing but also to developing our partnership with Newmarket and further building the Kingdom of Bahrain's association with the opening day of the July Festival.
"Continued international participation is fundamental to our ambitions for growth and the timing of the July Festival provides a great platform from which to launch each year's upcoming season in Bahrain and specifically key events such as the Bahrain International Trophy and the Bahrain Turf Series.
"Through our partnership with The Jockey Club and alignment with the world's leading racing jurisdictions, the aim is to further raise the standard of racing in Bahrain and welcome more international visitors."