Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: An unforgettable legacy in horse racing

The late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God rest his soul, left a legacy of generosity and lasting contributions to horse racing that spanned more than four decades. He combined the establishment of Jebel Ali Racecourse, one of the country's most prominent racing venues and widely known as the Family Track, with extensive support and sponsorship of races both locally and internationally. His famous yellow silks were carried to major victories on racetracks around the world.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum established Jebel Ali Racecourse and its stables in 1990. It became one of the UAE's most prominent horse racing landmarks, hosting major events and races for both Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred horses. The racecourse became closely associated with racing fans, owners, trainers, jockeys, and families who regarded the Yellow Track as both a sporting and family destination.

The history of horse racing will remember many of the late Sheikh Ahmed's achievements. Among the most notable was the success of his celebrated horse Mtoto, who won both the Eclipse Stakes and the Prince of Wales's Stakes before claiming the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in 1988. Wasl also captured the Irish 2,000 Guineas and the Lockinge Stakes in 1983.

The yellow silks also enjoyed success in the Classics through Pacifica, winner of the Irish Oaks and Italian Oaks, and Cape Verdi, winner of the English 1,000 Guineas in 1998. Adeeb won the Champion Stakes and three Group 1 races in Australia.

In the UAE, Sheikh Ahmed's horses recorded three victories in the sprint race later known as the Dubai Golden Shaheen on Dubai World Cup night. These achievements reinforced the presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid's colours on local tracks, in addition to their international successes.

The yellow silks remained at the forefront during their final season. Almaqam won the Tattersalls Gold Cup in Ireland, while Saddad captured the Group 1 Grosser Preis von Baden in Germany in September, adding another chapter to the record of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid's racing achievements.

Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority and Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, said the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum represents a great loss to the equestrian family and horse racing community in the UAE. He described him as one of the sport's most prominent pioneers and a figure who left a remarkable mark on horse racing over several decades.

He added that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God rest his soul, leaves behind a legacy filled with achievements and support for the sport of his fathers and grandfathers. His horses won on some of the world's leading racetracks and contributed to the growth of local racing through Jebel Ali Racecourse, which has become a well-known destination for racing fans, owners, trainers, and jockeys across the UAE and the Gulf region.

Strong presence

He noted that victories by Sheikh Ahmed's horses at Meydan Racecourse and on various European and international tracks strengthened the presence of the UAE's colours on the global stage and reflected his deep passion for horses and commitment to supporting the sport.

He stressed that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's legacy will remain firmly embedded in the history of horse racing. His admirable character and noble values will continue to be appreciated throughout the equestrian and sporting communities.

Deep love

Eng. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Director General and Board Member of the Emirates Racing Authority and CEO of A.R.M. Holding Group, expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He prayed for God Almighty to grant the deceased His mercy and a place in Paradise.

Al Shehhi said: "Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him, was a father and a teacher. Our relationship with him went beyond the boundaries of work and was built on deep affection and pride in being close to him. In his guidance, we found a father's wisdom. In his care, we found sincere love. In his actions, we found an example we were proud to follow.

"He entrusted us with responsibilities that taught us the importance of trust and the duty of preserving it. He instilled values in us that will remain throughout our lives. His generosity towards us is beyond words, and his impact is too profound to fade."

He added: "The deceased left unforgettable memories. His willingness to listen made everyone feel valued. His humility brought people closer to him, and his words reflected sincerity and honesty. These are the qualities we miss today and that make speaking about him so deeply emotional."

Lasting imprint

In moving remarks, Mohammed Al Ahmed, Director of Jebel Ali Racecourse, expressed his deep sadness at the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He said the late Sheikh Ahmed left behind a lifetime of unlimited giving and lasting achievements in service to the nation and its people.

Al Ahmed extended his sincere condolences to the UAE leadership, people, and the wider sporting and equestrian communities. He said the nation had lost an exceptional figure, a key pillar of its progress, and a leader who left a lasting mark on the UAE's development, particularly in the sporting sector.

Al Ahmed said the sporting community, especially the equestrian and racing sectors, had lost a historic supporter and guiding figure with the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid.

He noted that Sheikh Ahmed's passion for horses and visionary leadership were among the main drivers behind the development of horse racing both locally and internationally. He added that Jebel Ali Racecourse stands as a living testament to the late Sheikh Ahmed's vision and generosity.

"This racecourse would not have come into existence or achieved its prestigious position without the vision, support, and forward-thinking guidance of the late Sheikh Ahmed. He always wanted it to be a gathering place for the horse racing community and a platform for the development of the sport," he said.

Al Ahmed stressed that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's legacy will remain alive in the hearts of all those connected to horse racing and in every race and racetrack. He prayed for God Almighty to bless the deceased with His mercy and grant comfort and patience to all who mourn him.

Departure of a symbol

Ali Al Ali, Executive Director of Dubai Racing Club, expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

He said: "I extend my sincere condolences to the UAE leadership, the Al Maktoum family, and the people of the UAE. I pray that God Almighty grants the deceased His mercy and satisfaction, admits him into Paradise among the righteous, and grants us patience and strength during this difficult time."

He added that the UAE and the sporting community at both local and international levels have lost an exceptional national figure who contributed greatly to the country's standing and achievements.

"We bid farewell to a towering figure and a key pillar of our modern renaissance. His name was synonymous with decades of passion for horses and unwavering support for the sport of our fathers and grandfathers. He was a mentor and guiding force for generations of owners, trainers, and jockeys in the UAE. Through his vision and generosity, he paved pathways to success that will remain etched in racing history."

Faisal Al Rahmani, President of the International Federation of Horse Racing Academies and Vice Chairman of the Organising Committee and General Supervisor of Al Ain Racecourse, expressed his deep sadness at the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum after a lifetime of service and achievement.

He said the sporting community, particularly the equestrian family, has lost an exceptional national figure and a key contributor to the sector's growth. He described Sheikh Ahmed as a model of generosity, leadership, and unwavering support for horse racing.

Al Rahmani said the loss was profound, noting that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum had been one of the country's strongest supporters of horse racing. Through his personal commitment and strategic vision, he helped shape a successful period in the sport's history.

He added: "This unwavering support is clearly reflected in the establishment of Jebel Ali Racecourse, a major sporting facility that today hosts approximately 20 per cent of the country's horse racing programme."

Strengthening the sport's presence

Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Fujairah Equestrian Championships and President of the UAE Taekwondo Federation, praised the contributions of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the development of sport, particularly equestrian sports and horse racing in the UAE and Dubai.

Al Zeyoudi said Sheikh Ahmed's name will always be linked to important milestones in the country's equestrian sector. He noted that Sheikh Ahmed played a major role in strengthening the status of horse racing through continuous support and initiatives that left a lasting impact on the sporting landscape.

He added that Jebel Ali Racecourse was not merely a venue for hosting races. Over the years, it became an integral part of the history and identity of horse racing in the UAE. The racecourse's close association with Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reflects the immense support he provided to the sport and his determination to develop it and elevate it to higher levels.

Khalid Al Nabouda, horse owner and breeder, said the UAE has lost one of its most loyal sons, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God rest his soul.

He added that the deceased was a pioneer in many fields. In sport, equestrianism, and horse racing in particular, he left behind a legacy and enduring impact. Al Nabouda described it as a sad day for horse racing and its followers, and especially for Jebel Ali Racecourse, which Sheikh Ahmed created with a forward-looking vision and nurtured until it became a leading destination for horse racing enthusiasts from around the world.