The German equestrian federation (FN) has announced that sponsor Al Shira'aa has paid off its debt as title sponsor of the Bundeschampionate.
In May 2025 the FN proudly announced that H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Al Shira'aa stables signed the title sponsorship of these German Young Horse Championships for three years until 2027. At the time the FN said that "this commitment will secure the future and continued existence of the event."
Outstanding Debt Paid
The money contract, however, was not fulfilled and the funds for the 2026 Championship were not paid. FN President Martin Richenhagen told Süddeutsche Zeitung that there's a 200,000 euro gap in the budget.
The FN threatened to sue, but on 13 October 2026 the federation posted in a press release that "the outstanding sponsorship payment from Al Shira'aa Stables for the 2026 Bundeschampionate has been received."
“We are pleased that the outstanding amount has now been transferred and this matter has been resolved. Al Shira’aa has supported the Bundeschampionate since 2025. We greatly appreciate this commitment,” says Dr. Dennis Peiler.
Whether there is still a future with Al Shira'aa is unclear. "As part of its strategic realignment, Al Shira'aa Stables is examining the future structure of its partnership," the FN stated.
Al Shira'aa in Europe
Al Shira'aa is led by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan from the United Arabic Emirates.
Al Shira'aa has been expanding its presence in Europe by sponsoring jumping competitions in the U.K. including Windsor and the Hickstead Derby. They also signed with Falsterbo, Hamburg, and Münster.
Falsterbo, however, ended the agreement following backlash for sport-washing, while German broadcaster NDR reported that Al Shira'aa was expected to pay approximately €600,000 annually for the Hamburg derby, but only about half had reportedly arrived. The organiser declined to comment on the contract details.
NDR also reported that the Turnier der Sieger was also reported to be awaiting sponsorship money, even though they had an agreement until 2030.
Photo © Equitaris
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