FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SOURCE: ENDURANCE.NET
February 1 2026
As of December 9, 2025, Saudi Arabia (KSA) holds the status of the Rising Host with arguably the most momentum of any nation in the sport.
While they have historically been in the shadow of their neighbors (UAE and Bahrain), the 2026 World Championship is their "coming out party." As the host nation, they have invested heavily in infrastructure and horse power to ensure they are not just organizers, but medal contenders.
Here is the detailed status of the Saudi Arabian Team ("Al Fursan") for the 2026 cycle:
1. Current Team Status: The "Home Turf" Advantage
Saudi Arabia enters this championship with a massive logistical advantage: The Al Fursan Equestrian Village is their backyard.
- The "Custodian" Boost: The Saudi team is riding high after a historic victory in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in February 2025. This race, held on the same tracks as the upcoming World Championship, was won by a Saudi rider (Muhannad Alsalmi), proving that KSA can beat the UAE and Bahraini giants on home soil.
- Test Event Success: A dedicated Test Event was held just weeks ago (November 28, 2025) to simulate the World Championship conditions. The Saudi federation used this to finalize their course management strategies, giving their riders a "cheat sheet" on where the deep sand traps and rocky technical sections are located.
2. Key Contenders ("The Royal Squad")
The Saudi team is spearheaded by a mix of royalty and professional talent, supported by the Saudi Equestrian Federation (SAEF).
- Muhannad Alsalmi: The current star of Saudi endurance.
- Status: Winner of the 2025 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup (120km).
- Significance: His victory was a watershed moment, breaking the UAE/Bahrain winning streak in AlUla. He is the likely anchor for the 2026 team.
- HRH Prince Abdullah bin Fahad bin Abdullah Al Saud:
- Status: As the Chairman of the SAEF, he is the architect of the Saudi program. While he is an active rider, his primary role may be strategic leadership, though he has competed at high levels previously.
- Rayyan Al Mubalat: A consistent performer in regional CEI events who represents the depth of the Saudi bench.
3. Strategic Outlook for AlUla
- Terrain Familiarity: The course winds through the UNESCO site of Hegra. Saudi riders train here year-round. They know exactly how the footing shifts from soft sand to hard volcanic rock—knowledge that European riders will lack.
- The "Spoiler" Role: Saudi Arabia’s goal is to disrupt the UAE vs. Bahrain narrative. If the two giants kill each other's chances with suicidal speed (a common occurrence), Saudi Arabia is positioned to take the Gold by riding a "fast but safe" average speed (approx 21-22 km/h).
Summary of the Host Nation
- Strengths: Unmatched course knowledge, massive home crowd support, and acclimatized horses.
- Weaknesses: Less depth of "super horses" compared to the UAE/Bahrain royal stables.
- Prediction: A strong contender for Team Bronze or Silver, with a distinct possibility of Individual Gold if the race becomes tactical.
Consolidated "AlUla 2026" Power Rankings (Dec 2025)
Rank | Nation | Status | Key Strength |
1 | UAE | The Favorite | Deepest stable of desert horses in the world. |
2 | Bahrain | The Challenger | Fastest individual rider (Sheikh Nasser). |
3 | France | The Defenders | Reigning World Champions; tactical discipline. |
4 | Saudi Arabia | The Hosts | Home field advantage; recent big wins in AlUla. |
5 | Spain | The Sprinters | European Champions; pure speed. |