CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines Opens with Top-Class Sport in Doha
Doha, Qatar – 18 February 2026
The 13th edition of the prestigious CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines burst into action on Wednesday at the magnificent Longines Arena at Al Shaqab, delivering world-class performances from the very first class. With elite riders from across the globe contesting CSI5*, CSI3* and CSI1* competitions, the tone has been firmly set for an exceptional week of equestrian sport in Qatar’s capital.
Brash Sets the Pace in CSI5*
Britain’s Scott Brash stole the headlines in the CSI5* 1.50m Faults & Time (LR-B), partnering the ever-consistent Hello Jefferson to a flawless round in 64.00 seconds. The duo combined precision and pace to secure victory in the feature class of the day.
“Jefferson was incredible yet again. He is in top form,” Brash said afterwards. “I know him so well, and we really understand each other. He is already looking for the next fence. He knows what he is doing, he loves his job, and he is a joy to ride.”
The performance immediately established Brash as a key contender for the week’s major honours, with momentum firmly on his side as the competition builds towards the weekend’s Grand Prix showdowns.
Tryba Continues Doha Winning Streak
Earlier in the day, France’s Lara Tryba and Flash de Talma claimed victory in the CSI5* 1.40m Two Phases. The pair delivered a clear opening phase before producing an electric second-phase time of 27.94 seconds to seal the win.
“It’s a very good start of the week for me,” Tryba said. “My horse Flash is incredible. It’s his third win now in the Doha Tour. The whole Tour has been incredible for me, and all the horses have had amazing results. They keep jumping so well. The horses love it here — they jump well in this big arena. I already want to come to Doha next year.”
Her continued success underlines the appeal of the Doha circuit, which has attracted many of the sport’s leading names to compete in the state-of-the-art arena.
International Podium Across All Levels
The opening day showcased depth across all divisions:
- In the CSI3* 1.40m Two Phases, Turkey’s Hasan Senturk guided Diams Brimbelles Z to the fastest clear in Phase II.
- Jordan’s Ibrahim Hani Bisharat topped the CSI3* 1.35m Special Two-Phase aboard Corona Irw.
- Saudi Arabia celebrated victory in the CSI1* 1.20m Faults & Time, as Abdulrahman Almutawaa and Inouie du Nenuphar produced the quickest clear round.
With flags from Great Britain, France, Turkey, Jordan and Saudi Arabia raised on day one, the event has already demonstrated its truly international character.
More to Come
While showjumping has launched the week in spectacular fashion, dressage and para dressage competitions are set to follow, building towards a weekend of finals and Grand Prix contests across all three disciplines.
With packed stands, flawless organisation and a world-class field of competitors, the 2026 edition of CHI Al Shaqab has made a powerful opening statement — and the very best may still be to come.
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