International Horse Racing Derby Opens in Kano with Renewed Hope Theme

The 2026 International Horse Racing Derby has commenced in Kano, with participants from different countries competing in various categories of the prestigious event.

The National Coordinator of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha Dangi, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Kano .

Dangi, who is also the Sarkin Dawaki of Kasar Nupe, said the four-day event began on June 24 and would end on June 27 under the theme: “The International Horse Racing Derby: Renewed Hope Kano 2026.”

According to him, Kano remains a historic centre of horse racing in Nigeria and continues to play a pivotal role in the development of the sport.

“There is no horse racing history in Nigeria that can be complete without Kano. The state has a rich heritage in horse racing, particularly during the administration of the late Audu Bako, which greatly promoted the sport,” he said.

The coordinator said no fewer than 20 races in different categories would be contested during the derby, with participants drawn from various parts of Nigeria and other countries.

He added that the 2026 edition marked the first time a modern starting gate would be used for horse racing competitions in Kano, in line with international standards already adopted in Bida and Zaria.

Dangi expressed optimism that the introduction of the starting gate would improve fairness, competitiveness and professionalism in the conduct of races.

Results from the opening day showed that Abba, owned by S.D. Stable, emerged winner of the Sarkin Karaye Cup, receiving a cash prize of N400,000.

Another horse from the same stable, Layla, finished second to earn N300,000, while Aeesha, also owned by S.D. Stable, came third and received N200,000.

In the Late Alhaji Hassan Naif Memorial Cup, Jan Wuya, owned by Ali Mada, secured first position and claimed the top prize of N300,000.

Similarly, Share Hawaye, owned by Horse Flavour Stable, won the Late Malam Aminu Kano Cup, earning a prize of N400,000.

The organisers said the competition would continue with more races and presentations of prizes to outstanding performers before the grand finale on Saturday.