The death of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani marks the passing of one of the most influential figures in modern international racing. The former Emir of Qatar, who died on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the age of 74, played a pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between Qatar and French racing, helping transform several of France's premier contests into globally recognised events while supporting the long-term growth of the sport.

Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani's influence extended beyond politics through significant investment in economic, cultural and sporting partnerships. His support of horse racing, particularly in France, has been a defining part of that legacy.

Partnership That Reshaped French Racing

A landmark moment came in 2007 when the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) and France Galop established a partnership centred on the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Grade 1), which became the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. The collaboration remains in place and has strengthened the international standing of France's flagship Flat race while reinforcing its position as one of the sport's premier global events.

The relationship has expanded steadily over the years. Since 2021, QREC has also served as the title partner of the Qatar Prix du Jockey Club (Grade 1), with the agreement now covering numerous races across the French racing programme.

Recognition From France Galop

France Galop President Guillaume de Saint-Seine said the foundations of the enduring relationship between Qatar and French racing were established during Sheikh Hamad's reign, describing the partnership as central to the institution's international development.

"At this sad time, France Galop pays tribute to the memory of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. It was under his reign that the ties were forged which today continue to unite Qatar and French racing. Since 2007, the partnership between the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club and France Galop has made a major contribution to the international prestige of our flagship races and has become a cornerstone in the development of our Institution.

"On behalf of France Galop, its Board of Directors and its Committee, I extend our deepest condolences to his son, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, and to the Al Thani family."

The remarks are significant because they highlight how the partnership has evolved from a commercial agreement into a long-standing strategic relationship that continues to shape French racing.

Supporting Purebred Arabian Racing

The collaboration also helped elevate Purebred Arabian racing in France. In 2008, the Qatar Arabian World Cup (Grade 1 PA) was introduced at ParisLongchamp during the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe weekend. The race has since developed into the world's leading championship event for Purebred Arabians.

France Galop credited Sheikh Hamad's long-term commitment and vision for leaving a lasting imprint on the sport. His support over nearly two decades strengthened French racing's international reach while fostering closer ties between Qatar and one of Europe's leading racing jurisdictions. That legacy continues through partnerships and races that remain prominent fixtures on the global racing calendar.