OMAR AL MARZOOQI WINS VISIT PORTUGAL GRAND PRIX AT AL SHIRA’AA CSIO3* LISBON
Al Shira’aa rider Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi clinched a landmark international victory yesterday evening, winning the Lisbon Grand Prix presented by Visit Portugal aboard Chacco Bay after producing one of only two double clear rounds over Bernardo Costa Cabral’s technical 1.55m course.
Held at the historic Sociedade Hípica Portuguesa in the heart of Lisbon, the Grand Prix brought together a world-class field of international combinations as part of the revitalised CSIO Lisbon, a show proudly supported by Al Shira’aa following the organisation’s commitment to restoring the prestigious Nations Cup to the Portuguese capital from 2026 onwards.
Demonstrating speed, precision and composure under pressure, Al Marzooqi and Chacco Bay stopped the clock in an impressive 38.43 seconds in the jump-off to secure the win ahead of France’s Edouard Chauvet and Zia Mia de la Bonn Z, with Portugal’s Duarte Seabra completing the podium.
The victory also marks the second Grand Prix win for Al Marzooqi and Chacco Bay as a partnership, further cementing the combination as one of the UAE’s most exciting emerging combinations on the international circuit. Currently ranked inside the top 10 of the FEI U25 rankings, Al Marzooqi continues to establish himself amongst the sport’s leading young talents under the vision and support of HH Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Speaking following the victory, Al Marzooqi said, “Winning in Lisbon means so much to me, especially that it’s such a historical event that has been restored by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan after a three-year break. As always, I’m grateful to Al Shira’aa for the continued support and for making these victories possible.”
Sami Kettle, Director of Global Operations at Al Shira’aa commented, “We are incredibly proud to see Omar Al Marzooqi and Chacco Bay deliver such an outstanding performance to win the CSIO3* Al Shira’aa Lisbon Grand Prix. This victory is a true reflection of Al Marzooqi’s talent, determination and exceptional horsemanship, together with the incredible partnership he has built with Chacco Bay.
“To see a UAE rider stand at the top in such a historic European arena is a proud moment for UAE equestrian sport and a reflection of the strength, dedication and ambition of our riders.
“We would also like to recognise and thank the entire team behind moments like today, as success of this level is never achieved alone. At Al Shira’aa, we are a family, and it takes the dedication, belief and hard work of so many people behind the scenes to make days like this possible.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan for her unwavering vision, passion and support for equestrian sport, and to the UAE Equestrian Federation for their continued commitment to supporting and developing UAE athletes. Victories like this represent not only individual achievement, but the strength of a united team and the bright future of UAE equestrianism on the global stage.”
The win carries additional significance given Al Shira’aa’s recent commitment to the future of equestrian sport in Portugal. In November 2025, Al Shira’aa announced a five-year agreement to restore the historic Lisbon Nations Cup following a three-year hiatus, reaffirming HH Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s mission to bring sport to the people while supporting legacy events across Europe.
Founded in Abu Dhabi, Al Shira’aa has become internationally recognised for its commitment to excellence in equestrian sport, from elite competition and breeding programmes to rider development and horse welfare. The organisation continues to play a pivotal role in supporting prestigious international events and creating opportunities for riders on the world stage.
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Photo by Ahmed Malaawi
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