Doha, October 17 (QNA) - President of the Qatar Equestrian Federation and Modern Pentathlon (QEFMP) Badr bin Mohammed Al Darwish lauded Qatar's team for advancing to the 2026 Tent Pegging World Cup finals, slated to take place in Jordan in November.

Al Darwish told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that this advancement was a historic achievement and a testament to the sustained growth of Qatari equestrian sports and their growing regional and international standing.

He said this outgrowth builds on the QEFMP's recent sporting feats, particularly at the latest Asian Games, and reflects the steadfast support of the country's leadership and the continued backing of the Qatar Olympic Committee, headed by HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani.

Al Darwish also commended the national riders' incredible performance and high morale in the qualifying playoff hosted by Oman, adding that their ability to overcome formidable opposition, navigate challenging conditions, and secure top spot showcased their technical prowess and competitive capabilities.

Finishing atop the standings with 414.50 points underscored their upward trajectory and augured well for their World Cup campaign, he noted.

Al Darwish further explained that the accomplishment underscores the QEFMP's unflagging commitment to developing riders, honing their talents, and implementing rigorous training programs.

Preparations are now intensifying ahead of next month's World Cup, with the team determined to represent Qatar and project the tremendous image the nation has been striving to convey in international sport, he said.

For his part, For his part, HE Secretary-General of the QEFMP Sheikh Ahmed bin Noah Al-Thani said the team's direct qualification was no coincidence, but the result of sustained technical work and meticulous field planning that had paid off.

  He noted that Qatar's riders secured first place in the qualifying playoff in Oman with 414.50 points, demonstrating tactical discipline and phenomenal mental focus against strong teams, including Iraq and Kuwait.

The result also built on Qatar's third-place finish in the preceding qualifying stage, which secured the team's place in the playoff, Sheikh Ahmed highlighted.

Sheikh Ahmed said the riders' strong performances in both individual and team events reflected the success of intensive training camps and high-level competitive exposure. He added that these results demonstrated the depth of Qatar's talent pool and the strength of its technical foundations, including a capable second tier of riders able to compete under demanding conditions.

He noted that the QEFMP's work centers on translating its development strategy into concrete results by providing a comprehensive training environment, selecting suitably prepared horses, and ensuring high-level logistical coordination.

Looking ahead, Sheikh Ahmed said an intensive preparation program would be implemented over the coming weeks to maintain the physical and mental readiness of both riders and horses.

He added that Qatar's ambitions in Jordan extend beyond ceremonial participation: the team aim to contend for the top places and deliver results that bring distinction to the country on the world stage. (QNA)