Equestrian

horse

Equestrian events were first included in the Olympic Games in 1900, featuring a variety of competitions. By 1912, the modern Olympic equestrian format was established, comprising three core disciplines: Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing. These events have remained a fixture of the Olympic programme ever since.

 

Equestrian sport is unique among Olympic disciplines in that it is one of the very few where men and women compete directly against each other under the exact same rules. As of the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028, it will stand alone as the only Olympic sport where animals compete alongside humans. This dynamic makes the human-animal partnership a fundamental aspect of success. Years of mutual trust, training, and respect are essential to building the synergy required for high-level competition, making equestrian sport a true celebration of harmony between horse and rider.

 

Qatar made its Olympic equestrian debut at Rio 2016, participating in both the team and individual Jumping events. In a historic performance, Sheikh Ali Al Thani advanced to the final round and finished sixth overall, narrowly missing out on a medal in a dramatic six-way jump-off. His achievement marked a milestone in Qatar’s Olympic history and underlined the country’s growing presence in international equestrian sport.

 

Qatar continues to support equestrian development through world-class facilities, such as Al Shaqab – a member of Qatar Foundation – and by hosting prestigious international competitions like the Longines Global Champions Tour. These efforts reflect the nation's deep commitment to promoting equestrian excellence and elevating its athletes on the Olympic and global stages.


Qatar Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon Federation

The Qatar Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon Federation was established in 1979 and became a member of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) in 1980. In 2014, the federation expanded its mandate to include the sport of modern pentathlon, becoming the official authority overseeing both equestrian disciplines and pentathlon activities in the country. It is responsible for organizing national competitions, preparing national teams, developing athletes and coaches, and fostering international partnerships.
 

Qatar has become a leading nation in equestrian sports within the region, with its riders achieving major success on global stages. Among the country’s top athletes are Bassem Hassan Mohammed, winner of several international showjumping titles, and Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani, who represented Qatar in three consecutive Olympic Games and earned podium finishes at world and continental events. Other prominent riders include Mohammed Al-Baker and Hamad Al-Attiyah, both of whom have competed successfully in major international circuits.
 

On the hosting front, the federation organizes several prestigious international events annually, including:

  • CHI Al Shaqab as part of the Longines Global Champions Tour
  • Qatar International Showjumping Championship (CSI5)*
  • Arab League World Cup Qualifier for Showjumping
  • GCC Equestrian Championships
     

In modern pentathlon, the federation has launched grassroots programs focused on youth development, introducing athletes to the five-discipline Olympic sport (running, swimming, riding, shooting, and fencing). The aim is to build a competitive national team while broadening community participation through partnerships with schools, clubs, and training centers.

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Mr. Badr Bin Mohamed Al-Darwish
President
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Sheikh Ahmad Bin Nooh Al-Thani
Secretary General

Contact

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Qatar Equestrian Federation and Modern Pentathlon

Tel : 44708456 - 44708427

Fax: -

Email Address : qempf@olympic.qa

Website : www.qempf.com