Sheikh Ahmed’s patronage of sports leaves an indelible legacy

A pall of gloom descended on the UAE’s sporting community following the death of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with football, racing and marine sports officials and fans mourning a figure whose more than four decades of involvement helped shape the UAE’s sporting landscape.

Sheikh Ahmed, who died after a long association with sport and horse racing, was remembered for his support for sporting institutions, his passion for thoroughbred racing and his role in establishing venues and organisations that went on to gain international recognition.

Sheikh Ahmed, younger brother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, passed away on Monday.

From laying the bedrock of Jebel Ali Racecourse to conquering the world’s most prestigious turf fixtures, Sheikh Ahmed carved a legacy that redefined the sport both at home and abroad.

His signature yellow silks, recognisable across leading global racecourses, symbolised decades of relentless passion and competitive excellence.

Beyond the high-stakes victories on international soil, Sheikh Ahmed’s creation of Jebel Ali Racecourse provided the racing community with a soulful, enduring home, anchoring his lifelong commitment to the sport’s in the UAE.

As long-serving President of Al Wasl Sports Club, Sheikh Ahmed guided the institution from its genesis in a modest Zabeel house in 1960 to the absolute summit of UAE sport.

A pivotal catalyst in the club’s historic rise, his vision transformed humble beginnings into decades of multi-sport excellence — spanning basketball, volleyball, handball, and football. Under his visionary stewardship, Al Wasl club established itself as an enduring powerhouse, capturing eight UAE Pro League titles. Following news of his passing, the club and its fan base united in emotional tribute across social media, honouring the legacy of a leader who built their foundation and shaped their glory.

Sheikh Rashid Bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority and Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, said the passing of Sheikh Ahmed represents a great loss to the equestrian family and horse racing community in the UAE.

“Sheikh Ahmed leaves behind a legacy filled with achievements and support for the sport of his fathers and grandfathers.

“His horses won on some of the world’s leading racetracks and contributed to the growth of local racing through Jebel Ali Racecourse, which has become a well-known destination for racing fans, owners, trainers, and jockeys across the UAE and the GCC.”

He described him as one of the sport’s most prominent pioneers and a figure who left a remarkable mark on horse racing over several decades.

“It is with profound sorrow and deep grief, while humbly accepting the will and decree of Allah, that we mourn the passing of Sheikh Ahmed,” said Mohamed Al Ahmed, Jebel Ali Racecourse General Manager.

“His passing is a great loss to Dubai, the UAE, and the entire sports and equestrian community. Sheikh Ahmed leaves behind a distinguished national legacy, marked by boundless contributions, enduring achievements, and an unwavering commitment to the service of the nation and the elevation of its flag.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the wise leadership of the UAE, the people of the Emirate, the Al Maktoum family, and the entire sports and equestrian community. With his passing, the nation has lost a towering figure, an exceptional pillar, and a visionary whose profound contributions left an enduring mark on the development of the UAE, particularly within the sporting sector, where he was one of its most distinguished figures and guiding forces.”

He added: “Sheikh Ahmed was the founder and visionary behind Jebel Ali Racecourse. Since its creation in 1990, he built far more than a racetrack. He created a home for racing, a gathering place for the equestrian community, and a lasting expression of Dubai’s deep and genuine love for the horse.”

Sheikh Ahmed will also be remembered as a pioneer of the UAE’s maritime heritage, having played an instrumental role in founding the Dubai International Marine Sports Club (DIMSC) and serving as its inaugural chairman in 1988.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, president of the UAE Sailing and Modern Rowing Federation, said the equestrian community would remember Sheikh Ahmed for his contribution to the development of horse racing, particularly the creation and development of Jebel Ali Racecourse to international standards. He also highlighted Sheikh Ahmed’s role in establishing the DIMC and his continued support for sporting achievements under the UAE flag.

Tributes also came from the UAE volleyball community, with Sheikha Shamsa Bint Hasher Al Maktoum, a board member of the UAE Volleyball Federation, recalling his 24 years of support for the Al Wasl women’s volleyball team.

She said that support had played an important role in the team’s development and achievements.

Al Wasl fans and players united in mourning, paying tribute to Sheikh Ahmed and remembering his support to the club.