فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
El Jadida – On September 29, 2025, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan presided over the opening ceremony of the 16th edition of the Salon du Cheval, held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI at the Mohammed VI Exhibition Center in El Jadida. The event runs from September 30 to October 5, 2025, under the theme “Horse Welfare, a Link Between Equestrian Practices,” focusing on horse care and enhancing the cultural heritage related to horse breeding and equestrian sports.
The Salon du Cheval in El Jadida is one of the most prominent international events celebrating Morocco’s rich equestrian culture, including breeding, sports, and traditional arts such as Tbourida. The fair contributes significantly to the socioeconomic development of the region by boosting tourism and improving infrastructure.
Crown Prince’s Participation
During the opening, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan toured various exhibition areas, including sponsor zones, the institutional village, international village, breeders’ village, craftsman’s house, art and culture village, regional spaces, and a dedicated children’s area for exploring equestrian heritage. He witnessed impressive equestrian performances by both Moroccan and international riders, followed by Tbourida exhibitions featuring 18 groups from different regions across the kingdom. The ceremony concluded with a commemorative group photo of the Crown Prince alongside Tbourida group leaders, reflecting the royal family’s commitment to preserving national heritage.
Highlights and Activities
The event offers a diverse program combining competitions, workshops, and recreational activities targeting professionals, enthusiasts, and families alike. It includes scientific conferences, cultural events, and interactive workshops with a special focus on youth engagement to preserve and pass on equestrian traditions. Three equestrian nights on October 1, 3, and 4 add grandeur to the event, complemented by a themed study day on equine welfare and related practices.
Key competitions at the Salon include:
- Champions Cup for Barb Horses, showcasing breeding excellence of the Barb breed.
- Champions Cup for Arab-Barb Horses, highlighting qualities of the Arab-Barb horse.
- Moroccan Arab Horse-Breeders’ Cup, focusing on purebred Arab horses from Moroccan breeders.
- The International “A” Title Show for Purebred Arabian Horses (October 1-2), judged by seven ECAHO judges across age and gender categories, offering trophies and awards.
- The Grand Prix of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for Show Jumping (CSI4W/CSI1).
- The Grand Prix of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for Tbourida, featuring a traditional equestrian competition across multiple rounds, concluding on October 5.
Beyond sport and culture, the Salon plays a vital role in El Jadida’s economic and social growth through infrastructure development and tourism, striking a balance between preserving traditions and embracing modern innovations in equestrian practices.
National and International Impact
The Salon du Cheval serves as a key platform for dialogue and cooperation among breeders, riders, artisans, institutions, and stakeholders both nationally and internationally. It highlights the horse’s multifaceted role in sports, culture, and celebrations, deeply rooted in Morocco’s history and identity. The 16th edition reflects ongoing efforts to innovate the event while respecting tradition, with enhanced features such as the Arabian Title Show to boost its global prestige.
Summary of Main Competitions
| Competition | Description | Dates/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Champions Cup for Barb Horses | Breeding competition for the Barb horse breed | Throughout the fair |
| Champions Cup for Arab-Barb Horses | Focus on Arab-Barb horse qualities | Throughout the fair |
| Moroccan Arab Horse-Breeders’ Cup | Showcasing purebred Arabian horses from Moroccan breeders | Throughout the fair |
| International “A” Title Show for Arabian Horses | Beauty contest by age and gender categories, ECAHO judges | October 1-2 |
| Grand Prix of HM King Mohammed VI for Show Jumping | International show jumping events | Various dates |
| Grand Prix of HM King Mohammed VI for Tbourida | Traditional Tbourida competition involving regional teams | Multiple rounds, final October 5 |
Complementary educational and recreational activities such as workshops and roundtables ensure the event appeals to a broad audience, including families and industry professionals.
The 16th Salon du Cheval not only celebrates Morocco’s equestrian heritage but also solidifies the nation’s leadership in horse welfare and cultural preservation, with Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan’s participation underscoring royal support and public enthusiasm for this prestigious event.
