Diriyah Gate and Jockey Club Sign Landmark Partnership to Elevate Equestrian Sports in the Kingdom

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA) have signed a landmark partnership agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation in the field of equestrian sports. The agreement was signed during the prestigious Saudi Cup 2024, held at the King Abdulaziz Equestrian Square in Riyadh, which is renowned as the world's most lucrative horse race with prizes worth $20 million.

The partnership, inked by H.R.H Prince Bandar bin Khalid Al Faisal, Chairman of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, and Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, aims to foster collaboration and promote equestrian sports and racing in the Kingdom. Recognizing the club's commitment to preserving this revered sport, the partnership holds great significance for Saudi Arabia, which stands at the forefront of the global horse racing scene, contributing to the diversification of sports competitions in the Kingdom and the growth of its economy.

DGDA, the official Legacy Partner of the JCSA and Saudi Cup, has shown a keen interest in equestrian events, hosting numerous activities and competitions featuring purebred Arabian horses. Notably, the UNESCO inscribed At-Turaif  district houses the "Arabian Horse Museum," showcasing a model of the Purebred Arabian mare "Tarfa." This model was presented by the founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, as a gift to King George VI on the occasion of his coronation, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom's equestrian legacy.

Jerry Inzerillo expressed his delight in forging this partnership with the JCSA, emphasizing the club's instrumental role in promoting equestrian sports in the Kingdom and beyond. He noted that this collaboration aligns with DGDA's strategy to strengthen the role of sports in Diriyah, creating a vibrant community through various development and sports projects that have garnered global attention.

Inzerillo commended the Saudi Cup's exceptional level of competition, featuring three tournaments throughout the year: Riyadh Season, Saudi Cup, and Taif Season. He also highlighted the significance of Arabian horses, which have been bred in the Arabian Peninsula for approximately 9,000 years.

Moreover, Inzerillo emphasized DGDA's enduring relationship as a Legacy Partner of the JCSA and the authority's commitment to preserving and strengthening the historical ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and horses. He praised DGDA's sponsorship of the Riyadh season competitions, including the Imam Mohammed bin Saud Cup and the Diriyah Cup, which is a qualifier for the Obaiya Cup, paying tribute to the legacy of King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

Drawing attention to DGDA's pavilion at the Saudi Cup, Inzerillo noted its portrayal of Diriyah's profound connection with horses and the cultural heritage that resonates within the Diriyah community.

Commenting on the partnership with the DGDA, the CEO of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, Ziyad Al-Muqrin, commented: "The Jockey Club exerted efforts to select our partners, and among these is a sponsorship contract with Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), which we look forward to employing and activating mutual and public interests between the Jockey Club and DGDA".

The Arabian Horse Museum in Diriyah utilizes state-of-the-art technology to present the history of purebred Arabian horses, as well as the tools associated with horse racing. Additionally, the museum shares captivating narratives about the profound bond between horse and rider, along with the rich cultural heritage of Arabian horsemanship.

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