The 13th edition of the CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines opens today at Al Shaqab in Doha, featuring show jumping, dressage, and para-dressage competitions. Over 300 riders from more than 40 countries will compete for a prize fund exceeding €1.3 million. The event, the only CHI of its kind in the Middle East and Asia, runs through February 21, 2026.
The Organizing Committee of the Doha Equestrian Tours announced details of the 13th Al Shaqab International Equestrian Championship (CHI) Presented by Longines during a press conference on February 17 at the Longines Arena in Al Shaqab. This edition marks the sixth round of the 2026 Doha Equestrian Tours, inaugurated in 2025 to position Doha as a global equestrian hub.
The four-day event, from February 18 to 21, includes show jumping across CSI1*, CSI3*, and CSI5* categories with 303 riders and 469 horses from over 40 countries. Dressage features CDI1* and CDI5* with 26 riders, while para-dressage in the CPEDI3* category has 12 riders. The total prize fund stands at €1,373,000, including qualifiers for FEI Group VII.
Assistant Director Sheikh Talal bin Khalid Al-Thani stated, "CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines reflects our continued commitment to delivering world-class equestrian sport that reinforces Doha’s position on the international calendar." He highlighted the Grand Prix weekend, peaking on Saturday with finals in multiple disciplines and the CSI5* Grand Prix Presented by Longines.
Friday's schedule includes the popular Jump & Drive challenge, where riders jump on horseback before driving a car through obstacles. The event accommodates Ramadan with sessions before Iftar and in the evening, plus daily Iftar for participants and Taraweeh prayers.
Jassim Al Mahmoud of Visit Qatar noted, "Equestrian holds a special place in Qatar’s cultural heritage and national identity, and this championship provides a valuable platform to showcase that legacy." Para-dressage rider Fiona Howard, a previous winner, called it her favorite event: "CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines is always my favourite competition of the year... I love bringing my horses here."
Organized by Al Shaqab, the Qatar Equestrian Federation, and the Qatar Olympic Committee, the championship features partners including Longines, ExxonMobil, and Visit Qatar. Current CSI4*/5* standings leaders include Scott Brash (GBR) with 199 points.
