Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – February 13, 2026 – Five-star competition is building at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club as Friday afternoon’s €28,200 CISM Speed Stakes CSIO 5* -1.50m delivered a thrilling and technical contest ahead of the evening’s Longines League of Nations™ team competition. A field of 24 combinations came forward to tackle the speed and handiness track, where tight turns and a fast pace proved decisive.
Mohamed Hamad Ali Al Kirbi (UAE) was second to go aboard Lyon van de Plataan, jumping one of the 8 clear rounds in 65.41 seconds.
He held the lead until the halfway point, when Swiss rider and Longines League of Nations™ team member Romain Duguet (SUI) guided Bel Canto de Boguin to a faultless and fast clear in 63.36 seconds to take the win. The Olympic rider made the course look effortless on Jean-Pierre Fasel’s scopey 15-year-old gelding, further underlining the pair’s form following their CSI 5*-W victory in Basel last month.
Belgium’s Wilm Vermeir (BEL) entered the arena shortly afterwards, producing the fastest round of the class in 61.18 seconds, but an unfortunate pole down added four seconds to his time for a total of 65.18 seconds. That effort was enough to secure second place aboard Magic van’t Hulgenrode Z, relegating Al Kirbi to third, where he ultimately finished.
Speaking after his victory, Duguet said, “I’m really happy. He’s a lovely horse and we’ve been together for a long time now. He’s a fantastic partner and has won a lot of speed classes, so I’m very pleased with him today.” He went on to add, “The owners are here as well, so I’m especially happy for them. It’s always a pleasure to come to Abu Dhabi — the conditions are superb, the ground is perfect and the weather is fantastic. Everything is great, and I’m very happy to be back here after last year.”
Final Results – €28,200 CISM Speed Stakes CSIO 5*
1) Romain Duguet (SUI) & Bel Canto de Boguin – 0 / 0 – 63.36
2) Wilm Vermeir (BEL) & Magic van’t Hulgenrode Z – 4 – 61.18 + 4 = 65.18
3) Mohamed Hamad Ali Al Kirbi (UAE) & Lyon van de Plataan – 0 – 65.41
Source: Press Release by Hannah McCabe / Dark Horse Communications (edited) for The Emirates Jumping Cup / UAE Equestrian & Racing Federation
Photos: © UAEERF / Nour Al Masri
