Etihad Airways named official partner of Abu Dhabi Gold Cup as Race 1 sponsor
Global thoroughbred stars set for high-stakes mile contest in UAE capital
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has been announced as the Official Partner of the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup and the Presenting Partner of Race 1, strengthening the capital’s profile as a host of elite international sporting events.
The partnership with Abu Dhabi Turf Club brings together two institutions rooted in the Emirate and aligned by a shared focus on excellence, heritage and global connectivity. It also underlines Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a destination for world-class competition and premium race-day experiences.
The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup will take place on Saturday, 7 February 2026 at Abu Dhabi Turf Club. The one-mile contest carries a total prize fund of $1 million and is expected to attract leading thoroughbred horses, top jockeys and internationally recognised trainers from major racing nations.
Global spotlight
Organised by Abu Dhabi Turf Club, the Gold Cup is a centrepiece of the UAE racing calendar and a key pillar of the club’s long-term vision. The event is designed to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for horse racing excellence while celebrating the UAE’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions. Each year, the race draws increasing international attention, reinforcing the Emirate’s standing on the world thoroughbred circuit.
The collaboration with Etihad Airways adds further international reach, with the national airline playing a central role in welcoming racing professionals, owners and spectators travelling to Abu Dhabi for the fixture. The partnership reflects a broader strategy to integrate sport, tourism and hospitality into a unified global offering.
Strategic alliance
Through the agreement, Etihad becomes an integral part of the Gold Cup race weekend, aligning its brand with one of the region’s most prestigious racing events. Both organisations are closely associated with Abu Dhabi and share a commitment to delivering experiences defined by quality, precision and global appeal.
Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi Turf Club and President of the Organising Committee, said the partnership strengthens the Emirate’s international racing profile. He noted that Etihad’s role as the UAE’s national airline makes it a natural partner in connecting Abu Dhabi with global audiences and reinforcing its presence on the international racing stage.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said the airline was proud to support an event that mirrors its own standards of ambition and excellence. He said the partnership allows Etihad to welcome the global racing community to Abu Dhabi while supporting an event that reflects the Emirate’s vision for world-class sport and international engagement.
Beyond the competition on the track, the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup is positioned as a full championship race-day experience. The event combines elite sporting action with refined hospitality, premium dining and curated entertainment, reflecting the evolution of Abu Dhabi Turf Club into a lifestyle destination as well as a racing venue.
Race-day experience
The 2026 edition of the Gold Cup is expected to continue this trajectory, delivering an environment where sport, culture and heritage intersect. With Etihad’s involvement, the event gains additional global exposure while maintaining its focus on quality and tradition.