AlFursan Endurance AlUla 2026: Mohammed Al Mazrouei Crowned Mutadil Cup Winner

The AlFursan Endurance AlUla 2026 championship ended with a dramatic finish in the Mutadil Endurance Cup, where Emirati rider Mohammed Al Mazrouei won in 7:23:43. Bahraini rider Abdulhamid Al Hashemi followed just one second behind, while Emirati rider Hamad Al Kaabi claimed third place after a close contest.

The event’s closing race featured 95 riders drawn from leading international endurance competitors, who tackled AlUla’s varied and demanding desert terrain over two days. Intense competition continued until the final metres, underlining the strength of the field and reinforcing AlUla’s growing position as a global hub for elite endurance sport.

The AlFursan Endurance AlUla 2026 programme was organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation, and ran under the official supervision of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports. This structure ensured international rules were applied and highlighted Saudi Arabia’s alignment with global equestrian standards.

Competition began with a 120-kilometre "CEI2" race on the first day, where Saudi rider Muhannad Al-Salmi secured the title for the second year in a row. The Mutadil 160-kilometre contest formed the championship’s main test, demanding strategic riding, strong physical condition and effective communication between riders and horses across several timed stages.

AlFursan Endurance AlUla 2026 course conditions and veterinary standards

Riders navigated multiple loops that showcased AlUla’s rock formations and open valleys, which are central to the governorate’s identity. Horses underwent detailed veterinary checks after every stage at designated inspection points. These procedures evaluated health, fitness and recovery, ensuring compliance with international endurance rules and protecting animal welfare throughout the long-distance efforts.

The high performance level seen during the Mutadil Endurance Cup offered a preview of the FEI World Endurance Championship scheduled in AlUla in November. Officials viewed this as evidence that AlUla is prepared to welcome leading international riders again for one of the discipline’s most important global events.

With inputs from SPA