ShareKUWAIT: The 2025 FEI World Cup Qualifier in Kuwait wrapped up on January 4, 2025, showcasing thrilling performances in showjumping in the CSI3-W big, medium and small tour events. Over the course of four days, riders from Kuwait and across the region competed fiercely for valuable points that will determine their path to the FEI World Cup Final.
Alrajhi wins Big Tour Final
The highlight of the competition was the CSI3-W Big Tour Final, which saw Abdulrahman Alrajhi of Saudi Arabia secure a remarkable victory in the 150 cm event. Riding his horse Bravour, Alrajhi completed both rounds without penalties, finishing with impressive times of 78.70 seconds in Round 1 and 54.11 seconds in Round 2.
Kuwaiti riders dominate
Kuwaiti riders also put on a strong showing in the competition. Ali Al-Khorafi continued his excellent form, securing second place in the Big Tour Final. Riding Qualifying de Hus, Al-Khorafi posted fault-free rounds with times of 81.58 seconds in Round 1 and 56.52 seconds in Round 2. In the CSI3-W Big Tour 140 cm (Normal Two-Phases), Fahad Al-Faleh emerged victorious with Backstage d’Alk, completing the event without penalties. His Phase 1 time of 46.87 seconds and Phase 2 time of 32.05 seconds earned him first place in the 16-rider event.
The event also featured strong competition from international riders, including Antonio Murruzzu from Italy and Nick Channing-Williams from Great Britain, but it was the Kuwaiti riders who dominated the podium. Yara Al-Hunaidi, Abrar Al-Musallam, Annaz Al-Annaz, and Abdulrahman Al-Fuzae all turned in stellar performances in various events, contributing to the overall success of the tournament.
Al-Hunaidi stood out in the Big Tour Final, finishing in 3rd place on her horse Valmira, completing both rounds without penalties.
Kuwait’s role in regional and international equestrian sports is becoming increasingly prominent. The Kuwait Equestrian Federation has worked tirelessly to organize top-tier events like the FEI World Cup Qualifier, contributing to the development of local talent and providing a platform for riders to compete on the global stage. With riders like Al-Khorafi, Al-Hunaidi and Al-Faleh at the forefront, Kuwait’s equestrian community is rapidly gaining recognition and respect in the global arena.
With the qualifiers underway, the road to the 2025 FEI World Cup Final remains competitive. Riders will now focus on upcoming events, striving for consistent results that will propel them toward securing their place in the final. The Kuwait FEI World Cup Qualifier was just one of several pivotal competitions that will shape the final standings.
As the season progresses, the region’s riders, including those from Kuwait, will look to build on their performances in preparation for the global event. The FEI World Cup Final, which gathers the world’s best riders, is the ultimate goal for many, and the points earned in these qualifiers will determine who gets to compete at the highest level.
