AlUla, February 8, 2025 — Saudi equestrian Muhannad Al-Salmi won the prestigious Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup after a commanding performance in Level 2 of the global competition held at AlFursan Equestrian Village in AlUla. The event, organized under the patronage of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation and the Royal Commission for AlUla, featured 200 top riders from around the world competing over a 120-kilometer course.
Context and Background
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup is one of the most esteemed events in the international endurance racing calendar, drawing elite athletes and substantial prize funds. This year’s edition boasted a total prize pool of SAR15 million, the largest of its kind in the category, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing world-class sporting events. The race took place in AlUla, a historical and cultural hub that is increasingly becoming a center for high-profile sports tourism as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
Key Details
Al-Salmi secured first place with an average speed of 23.6 km/h, completing the race in 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 15 seconds. He edged out Emirati rider Abdullah Al-Amri, who finished second with a time of 13 hours, 8 minutes, and 43 seconds, while Emirati rider Saif Al Mazrouei claimed third place with a time of 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 29 seconds. The championship continues with a Level 3, 160-kilometer endurance race on Sunday, featuring 100 riders competing for a SAR5 million prize pool.
Implications and Impact
The victory highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in equestrian sports, a tradition deeply rooted in the Kingdom’s heritage. Hosting such a high-stakes event in AlUla not only boosts local tourism but also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a global destination for major sporting competitions. The participation of international riders fosters cross-cultural exchange and showcases the Kingdom’s modern infrastructure and organizational capabilities.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The successful staging of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of diversifying the economy, promoting sports and tourism, and enhancing the quality of life. By attracting world-class athletes and substantial investment, the event contributes to the Kingdom’s ambition to become a leading hub for international sports and entertainment.
20 Questions
Q1. Who won the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla?
A1. Saudi equestrian Muhannad Al-Salmi won the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla on February 8, 2025.
Q2. What was the distance of the Level 2 endurance race?
A2. The Level 2 endurance race covered a distance of 120 kilometers.
Q3. How many riders participated in the competition?
A3. The competition featured 200 top riders from around the world.
Q4. Where was the race held?
A4. The race was held at AlFursan Equestrian Village in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Q5. What was the total prize pool for the championship?
A5. The total prize pool for the championship was SAR15 million, the largest of its kind in this category.
Q6. What was Muhannad Al-Salmi’s average speed during the race?
A6. Muhannad Al-Salmi completed the race with an average speed of 23.6 km/h.
Q7. What was Al-Salmi’s finishing time?
A7. Al-Salmi’s finishing time was 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 15 seconds.
Q8. Who finished second in the race?
A8. Emirati rider Abdullah Al-Amri finished second with a time of 13 hours, 8 minutes, and 43 seconds.
Q9. Who claimed third place?
A9. Emirati rider Saif Al Mazrouei claimed third place with a time of 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 29 seconds.
Q10. When will the Level 3 endurance race take place?
A10. The Level 3 endurance race will take place on Sunday following the Level 2 race.
Q11. What is the distance of the Level 3 race?
A11. The Level 3 race is a 160-kilometer endurance event.
Q12. How many riders will compete in the Level 3 race?
A12. A total of 100 riders will compete in the Level 3 race.
Q13. What is the prize pool for the Level 3 race?
A13. The Level 3 race has a prize pool of SAR5 million.
Q14. Who awarded the cup to Muhannad Al-Salmi?
A14. Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation and Head of the Sports Sector at the Royal Commission for AlUla, awarded the cup.
Q15. What is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup?
A15. It is a prestigious global endurance racing event named after the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the King of Saudi Arabia.
Q16. How does this event support Saudi Vision 2030?
A16. The event supports Vision 2030 by promoting sports tourism, economic diversification, and international cultural exchange.
Q17. Why is AlUla significant for this event?
A17. AlUla is a historical and cultural hub that showcases Saudi Arabia’s heritage and modern development, aligning with tourism goals.
Q18. What makes the prize pool record-breaking?
A18. The SAR15 million prize pool is the largest ever offered in this category of endurance racing worldwide.
Q19. How does this victory impact Saudi equestrian sports?
A19. The victory highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing expertise in equestrian sports and boosts the Kingdom’s international reputation.
Q20. What are the future implications for AlUla as a sports destination?
A20. Hosting such events positions AlUla as a premier destination for global sports, attracting investment and tourism consistent with Vision 2030.
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