The FBMA International Show Jumping Cup 2026 opened its 13th edition on Tuesday at Al Forsan International Sports Resort, with international and Emirati riders producing a series of strong performances on the first day of competition.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and under the guidance and supervision of Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Chairwoman of Abu Dhabi Ladies Club and Al Ain Ladies Club.
Organised by the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy (FBMA), the event continues to provide a competitive platform for female and male riders across international and national categories.
With total prize money of AED 1 million across international and national competitions, the opening day featured a packed schedule and a highly competitive field of male and female riders representing multiple nations.
Syria’s Layth Ghrayeb emerged as one of the standout riders of the day, taking first place in the Class 1 Special Two Phases (120cm) aboard Elite De Ponts. He finished ahead of UAE rider Saif Owaida Mohammed Alkarbi, with USA’s Talya Ismail Mounjad rounding out the podium.
The 18-year-old later secured a second win in another Special Two Phases class, completing a double victory on the opening day. Reflecting on his performance, he said: “It is very nice to win twice today and everything went well. It has been a great opportunity to compete here as I’ve been taking part for a long time over the years and has helped me in my development.”
Strong showing from regional riders
Another notable victory came from Mohammed Hamad Al Kirbi of Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, who topped the One Round Against The Clock (140cm) category riding Lyon Van De Plataan. Uzbekistan’s Abdurakhmon Feruzovich Abdulla finished second, while UAE rider Abdalla Hamad Ali Al Kirbi placed third.
“I feel really happy to win today. It was tough and I had to be at my very best and this is a great start for the rest of the competition,” said Al Kirbi.
Elsewhere, Jordan’s Zaid Khalaf claimed victory in the Special Two Phases (105cm) class with Chico, while UAE rider Ali Al Rahman secured first place in the Special Two Phases (125cm) category aboard Let It Be Again.
The Fatima Bint Mubarak International Show Jumping Cup 2026 continues daily with international competition running through Friday, before concluding with the national event on Sunday.
