Doha: From 18–21 February 2026, the spotlight of international equestrian sport will once again turn to Doha as the prestigious CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines returns to the iconic Longines Arena at Al Shaqab for its 13th edition.
One of only a handful of CHI events worldwide, and the only one of its kind in the Middle East and Asia, the championship embodies the true spirit of Concours Hippique International: a premium multi-discipline format uniting show jumping, dressage and para dressage in a single, world-class showcase.
A Global Stage
The 2026 programme promises both scale and sporting excellence, backed by a total prize fund of €1,373,000. In show jumping alone, more than 40 nations will be represented, with 303 riders and 469 horses competing across CSIY-B, CSICh-B, CSI1, CSI3 and CSI5* classes. The week builds toward a thrilling Grand Prix weekend, highlighted by Saturday’s CSI5* Grand Prix presented by Longines, traditionally one of the most anticipated contests on the international calendar.
Dressage maintains its elite profile with CDI5* (14 riders and horses) and CDI1* (12 riders and horses), while CPEDI3* para dressage welcomes 12 riders and 12 horses, reinforcing the event’s inclusive and multi-disciplinary identity.
Strengthening Doha’s International Presence
Speaking at the launch press conference, Sheikh Talal bin Khalid Al Thani, Assistant Deputy Director of the Doha Equestrian Tour, described the championship as a cornerstone of Qatar’s sporting vision. He emphasized that the event reflects a sustained commitment to delivering world-class equestrian sport while strengthening Doha’s standing on the global circuit.
That sentiment was echoed by Jassim Al Mahmoud, Director of Communications and Public Relations at Visit Qatar, who highlighted the cultural resonance of equestrian sport within Qatar’s national identity. With Al Shaqab recognised as one of only five venues worldwide, and the sole host in the Middle East and Asia to stage a CHI event of this calibre, the championship also serves as a powerful platform to showcase Qatar’s hospitality, infrastructure and year-round tourism offering.
A Rider’s Favourite
For athletes, the appeal of competing in Doha extends beyond the arena. American para dressage rider Fiona Howard, winner of the Para Grand Prix A (Grade II) at the 2023 edition, calls it her favourite competition of the year.
Returning for her third appearance, Howard praised the welcoming atmosphere and ideal February conditions. This year, she has brought a young horse to gain experience on one of the sport’s most prestigious stages, a testament to the confidence riders place in the event’s organisation and environment.
As anticipation builds, the 13th edition of CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines is set to deliver four days of elite competition, cultural pride and international camaraderie, reaffirming Doha’s place among the world’s premier equestrian destinations.
