The troubled racing and breeding industry in Libya has received a huge boost with the news that the government has upgraded support for the sport.
In an historic step, the Council of Ministers of the Government of National Unity transferred the affiliation of the Libyan Horse Racing Authority from the Ministry of Sports to the higher Council of Ministers.
This is a clear message from recently elected Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibeh that the government recognises the important role the industry plays in supporting many economies of several countries and in providing thousands of job opportunities.
The country’s Thoroughbred community has suffered ups and downs in recent years like no other nation. After more than 40 years in the doldrums during the Gaddafi years, it regenerated quickly following the Spring Revolution a decade ago. The Libyan Horse Racing Authority was established in 2013, the Libyan General Stud Book recognised shortly after, and the Libyan Breeders’ Cup, suspended by Gaddaffi in 1972, resumed.
But this was in the midst of civil war, which placed racehorses and stud farms in danger. In January 2019, more than 150 horses, including stallions and in-foal mares, were kidnapped by militia. Fortunately, most of the horses were found and safely returned to their stud farms.
Dr Amad Ashaab, President of the Libyan Horse Racing Authority, said of the government move this week, “It seems that Mr Dbeibeh, by virtue of his investment mentality, is the one who pushed to take this wise decision, similar to several countries.
“With this big step, we expect great support of the Libyan Horse Racing Authority from the government through the establishment of racetracks with integrated facilities, as well as a stipulation, in one of the articles of the legislation, to establish an annual award under the patronage of the Prime Minister, which is an important matter.
“This award will be valuable and could be international, giving another dimension to horseracing. We believe that the Libyan Horse Racing Authority will have an important and positive role within the equine industry in Libya, and we thank the Prime Minister for this important step.”
Plans are now in place for Libya’s most important race, the Arch of Marcus, to be run on October 16, with a total prize money of £724,000 (€850,000/$1 million).