Sheikha Latifah bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum has been confirmed among the five horse-and-rider combinations selected to represent the UAE at the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026, as the nation begins its qualification campaign for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The accomplished Emirati rider will compete with Cornet XL, joining a UAE squad that combines Olympic, Asian Games and World Championship experience with emerging talent.
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation (UAEERF) announced the final squad ahead of the championships, which will take place at the iconic Aachen Soers in Germany from 19 to 23 August.
Held every four years, the FEI World Championships is one of the most prestigious events in international show jumping. The competition brings together the world’s leading horse-and-rider combinations to contest both the team and individual world titles.
Importantly, Aachen will also provide the first opportunity for nations to secure team qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, with the seven highest-placed eligible teams earning qualification places.
Sheikha Latifah returns to the world stage
Sheikha Latifah bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum, one of the UAE’s most accomplished international riders, will compete in Aachen with Cornet XL.
The first Emirati woman to qualify for the Olympics, and multiple Asian Games medallist, Sheikha Latifah has represented the UAE at the highest level of international sport for more than two decades. She continues to be one of the country’s leading figures in show jumping.
Together with the talented 10-year-old Hanoverian stallion Cornet XL, Sheikha Latifah has enjoyed a strong season as the partnership prepared for the World Championships.
William Funnell to lead UAE squad
Leading the UAE team will once again be led by renowned British horseman William Funnell, who returns as Chef d’Équipe after overseeing the squad’s successful European campaign.
Funnell said:
“Every rider has earned their place on this team through consistent performances and hard work throughout the season. Championship competition is unlike any other. Success comes from preparation, trust in your horse and producing four solid performances when it matters most. We know the standard in Aachen will be exceptionally high, but this group has shown it can compete with the very best and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Alongside Sheikha Latifah, the selected squad brings together several of the UAE’s leading international riders and horses.
Omar Al Marzooqi joins final UAE squad
Paris 2024 Olympian Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi has been selected with Enjoy de la Mure following another impressive European season.
His recent results include victory in the CSI3 Grand Prix of Lisbon* and a runner-up finish in the CSI4 Longines Deauville Classic Grand Prix*.
At just 23 years old, Al Marzooqi has already built an impressive international career. He claimed individual silver and team bronze at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games before becoming the UAE’s flag bearer at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Experienced combinations complete Aachen line-up
Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi joins the team with Hudson de Vains, a Selle Français gelding that has continued to develop into a reliable championship horse.
The combination has gained valuable experience through CSI4 and CSI5** competitions across Europe and the Middle East. They arrive in Aachen following another season of consistent international performances.
Meanwhile, Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi has been selected with Foncetti vd Heffinck, forming one of the UAE’s most consistent international partnerships.
Together, they have produced several strong performances throughout the 2026 European season, including podium finishes in Nations Cup and Grand Prix competitions. Their continued progression at the highest level has reinforced Al Muhairi’s position among the country’s leading riders heading into Aachen.
Completing the five combinations are Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi and Flonflon, whose established partnership has become a regular feature of the UAE senior squad.
The pair have represented the nation extensively across Europe and the Middle East. Al Suwaidi also played a key role in the UAE team that secured bronze at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games.
Aachen begins UAE’s road to LA 2028
Dr Ghanem Al Hajri, Director General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, said the FEI World Championships represent another important milestone in the continued development of the nation’s show jumping programme.
“Representing the UAE at the FEI World Championships is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the commitment shown by our riders, owners, trainers and support teams. Our athletes have demonstrated excellent progress throughout the season and this championship provides the perfect opportunity to compete against the world’s best while taking the first step on the road to Los Angeles 2028. We have every confidence this team will represent the UAE with professionalism, determination and pride.”
Competition begins on Wednesday, 19 August, with the opening team and individual qualifier.
The team medals will be decided on Friday, 21 August, before the championships conclude on Sunday, 23 August with the individual final, where the world’s leading riders will compete for the title of FEI Jumping World Champion.
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