Celebrating Moroccan Equestrian Heritage
Under the esteemed patronage of King Mohammed VI, the Royal Moroccan Equestrian Federation is set to organize the 25th edition of the Hassan II Prize for Traditional Equestrian Arts (known as Tbourida) from June 15 to June 21, 2026. This prestigious event, which serves as Morocco's championship for traditional equestrian arts, will take place at the Dar Es-Salam complex in Rabat. According to a statement from the federation received by Hespress, this edition coincides with the celebration of the quarter-century milestone of this significant national event, showcasing the participation of elite traditional equestrian teams (known as 'sarbats') that have qualified through various regional competitions held across the country. A total of 24 teams will participate, comprising 18 in the adult category and six in the youth category.
The Royal Moroccan Equestrian Federation emphasizes that this event highlights the unique position of Tbourida within Morocco's rich cultural heritage. It also serves as an opportunity to honor the most skilled riders while preserving this ancient art form, which has remained a significant aspect of the collective memory of Moroccans through generations. Tbourida is recognized as one of the most prominent manifestations of authentic Moroccan heritage, having been included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.
Competition Structure and Participants
This traditional equestrian art exemplifies the harmonious relationship between humans and horses that has developed over centuries in Morocco. Currently, hundreds of teams across various regions of the country unite in efforts to preserve Moroccan traditions and safeguard the skills and knowledge associated with traditional equestrianism. The competition will be structured in two main phases: the qualifying rounds will take place from Monday, June 15, to Thursday, June 18, 2026, leading up to the finals on Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, where the best-qualified teams will compete for the title of Moroccan Champion of Traditional Equestrian Arts for 2026.
According to the competition format, ten teams from the adult category and five teams from the youth category will advance to the final round, with the Hassan II Prize for Tbourida being awarded during the official closing ceremony of this national event. In the adult category, notable participants include: the Al-Halwa team, the Al-Sharat team, the Roses Association for Traditional Equestrian Arts, the Ouled Belous team from the Skhirat-Témara region, and many more. In the youth category, teams such as the Lakzouli team from the Khémisset region and the Youth of Jerrada from the Jerada region will also participate.
Admission to the championship is free for the public at the Dar Es-Salam complex throughout the competition days, providing traditional equestrian enthusiasts with a chance to witness the performances of the top Moroccan teams and gain insight into one of the kingdom's most vital cultural components. It is noteworthy that the Royal Moroccan Equestrian Federation was established on April 24, 1958, and is headed by Sharif Moulay Abdallah Alaoui. As a custodian of a rich national tradition, the federation is committed to the development and promotion of traditional equestrian arts while encouraging their practice. The association of the Tbourida sport with the federation has played a significant role in reviving and preserving this cultural heritage as a valuable asset of the kingdom.
As reported by hespress.com.
