The British Chamber of Commerce Bahrain (BCCB) hosted its monthly business networking lunch, welcoming Shaikh Salman bin Rashid Al Khalifa, High Committee Representative for International Racing at the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC), as the guest speaker. The event, attended by prominent business leaders and industry stakeholders, provided an opportunity to showcase Bahrain’s commitment to the global horseracing industry and explore avenues for international collaboration.
Shaikh Salman was warmly welcomed by BCCB Chairman Khalid Al Zayani OBE and the BCCB Executive Committee members. In his address, Shaikh Salman highlighted Bahrain’s deep-rooted equestrian heritage and the significant strides made in elevating the sport to international prominence.
“Horseracing in Bahrain is more than just a sport — it is a fundamental part of our culture and history,” Shaikh Salman stated. “With the unwavering support of our leadership, we have positioned Bahrain as a key player on the global racing stage. The dedication of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has further strengthened our international presence, particularly through initiatives at the Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club (REHC).”
In his address, Shaikh Salman emphasised Bahrain’s strong ties with the global racing community, particularly its longstanding partnership with the United Kingdom, which has flourished for over four decades. He highlighted the vital role of collaborations with institutions such as Newmarket Racecourse in advancing Bahrain’s racing standards and fostering investment opportunities.
Shaikh Salman also highlighted Bahrain’s expanding equestrian ecosystem, which goes beyond racing to encompass breeding, training, veterinary services, and world-class equine facilities. He invited British businesses to explore opportunities in sponsorship, equestrian services, and event hospitality, recognising the sport’s potential to drive economic growth and tourism.
“Since launching our first international race in 2019, Bahrain has gained global recognition, attracting some of the world’s top racing professionals,” he noted. “As we look to the future, we welcome new partnerships that will contribute to the continued success of Bahrain’s horseracing industry.”
The BCCB networking lunch provided an engaging platform for business leaders to discuss potential collaborations in the equestrian sector, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering strong economic and sporting ties with the UK.
