The 17th week of the Riyadh racing season is set to deliver an exhilarating three-day spectacle at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, with race meetings 88, 89, and 90 taking place from Thursday to Saturday, February 6–8, 2025. Organized by the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA), the event will feature a total of 36 races, showcasing a diverse mix of thoroughbreds and purebred Arabians across different grades and classifications.
The action kicks off on Thursday, with the first race scheduled for 3:05 PM—an open handicap over 1200 meters for horses rated 0 to 60. The evening culminates in a 2000-meter contest exclusively for maiden Purebred Arabians, setting the stage for an intense weekend of competition.
Friday’s card brings added prestige with the ABDULLAH AL-BASSAM RECOGNITION AWARD, a 1600-meter race for three-year-olds carrying a prize of 130,000 SAR. Among the standout contenders is ALA MAHLAK, representing Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdulaziz, trained by Abdullah Musharraf and ridden by jockey Adel Al-Fraidi. Another key participant is the filly MIN MITHLIHA, owned by the sons of the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, under the training of Saad Al-Junaidi and guided by jockey Fawaz Wanas.
The evening’s highlight comes in the twelfth race, the JAPAN CUP FOR FILLIES, offering a lucrative 150,000 SAR prize over 1600 meters. OFF THE MAP, owned by Prince Sultan bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and trained by Shaleh Al-Adyani, is expected to be among the frontrunners with jockey Eddie Castro in the saddle. Also in contention is PARADISE ROW, owned by Abdullah bin Ayedh bin Mohammed Al-Thubiya, trained by Abdulaziz Khalid, and ridden by jockey Abdulaziz Al-Fraidi.
Saturday’s feature races add to the excitement, with the MINISTRY OF CULTURE CUP taking center stage in the tenth race, a 1600-meter contest worth 150,000 SAR. Leading the charge is MAN OF THE NIGHT, owned by Sheikh Abdullah Hamoud Al-Malik Al-Sabah, trained by Thamer Al-Dihani, and ridden by Ricardo Ferreira. Another key contender is MONKEY ISLAND, owned by Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdulaziz and trained by Abdullah Musharraf.
The weekend culminates in the EMIRATE OF AL-JOUF CUP, a true test of stamina over 2400 meters with a 150,000 SAR purse. Among the leading contenders is TAHZEEM, representing Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Abdulaziz, under the guidance of trainer Abdullah Musharraf and jockey Ricardo Ferreira.
BEYOND THE TRACK: A COMPLETE SPECTATOR EXPERIENCE
King Abdulaziz Racecourse offers more than just world-class racing. Families can enjoy a dedicated children’s entertainment zone featuring engaging activities, both horse-related and educational. Spectators have access to a range of ticket packages that grant entry to premium facilities and grandstand seating with prime views of the track.
The racing season also features a vibrant entertainment lineup, including live music, family-friendly activities, retail outlets, and a variety of food trucks and dining options. Visitors can further enhance their experience by participating in interactive contests, such as predicting race winners for a chance to win valuable prizes.
With electronic registration available for ticket purchases, racegoers can secure standard or premium access seamlessly. Full details on pricing and package options can be found on the official website of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia.
As anticipation builds, this three-day festival of racing promises high stakes, fierce competition, and an unforgettable atmosphere for racing enthusiasts and families alike.
