Quatar Racing & Equestrian Club is pleased to announce that it has signed a deal that will see it extending its sponsorship of the Glorious Goodwood Festival until the year 2024.
In 2014, Al Shaqab Racing founder Sheikh Joaan Al Thani, agreed to a 10-year deal but insisted on including a five-year break clause that resulted in speculation as to whether Qatar Racing would end its sponsorship deal early. However, following a meeting between Goodwood owner, the Duke of Richmond and QREC Chairman, Issa bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, it was agreed to continue the landmark partnership.
Adam Waterworth, Goodwood’s Managing Director commented that the first four years have been good for both of them and from Goodwood’s point of view, the obvious upside has been the prize money boosts that have really pushed the meeting forward. He added that they are actually in a better position than what they thought they would be at this stage.
Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, QREC Chairman, said that the outcome of this sponsorship has benefited Qatar and Qatar’s equestrian sport in particular because it promoted the name of Qatar in such international gathers. He added that it has also helped foster their relations and co-operation with horse organizations in the United Kingdom.
Goodwood will now be pressing for further upgrades to races at its flagship Glorious festival after the extension of Qatar’s sponsorship. With the extension in place, Goodwood is endeavoring to further boost the profile of the week, which includes upgrading races and, consequently prize money.