Tchad boosts horse racing sector with landmark investment at Grand Prix 2026

At the Grand Prix de la République 2026 held at the Afrouk racetrack on the outskirts of N’Djamena, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing Chad’s horse racing industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s sporting and cultural heritage.

Addressing a packed crowd of enthusiasts, breeders, and riders, the Head of State observed the races before unveiling a historic financial injection to bolster the sector. In his stead, the Minister of State and Head of the Presidential Cabinet, Aziz Mahamat Saleh, announced an exceptional allocation of 50 million CFA francs to enhance equine races and improve horse breeds in Chad.

« The Republic’s leadership pledges unwavering support for Chad’s horse racing future and the enhancement of our equine heritage », the minister declared to a rousing response from the audience.

The announcement was warmly received by the Association of Breeders and Stakeholders in Chad’s Horse Racing Industry (AEARCT), founded in 1963 in Fort-Lamy—now N’Djamena—and recognized as the country’s first public utility association. AEARCT President Idriss Ahmed Idriss highlighted the organization’s six-decade role as « a unifying force in Chadian society », bringing together individuals from all backgrounds.

He also reflected on the deep ties between national leaders and the equestrian world, noting how former President Ngarta Tombalbaye frequently hosted races during state visits, while President Idriss Déby Itno actively followed televised competitions. The association chief emphasized the ongoing construction of the new Afrouk racetrack, named in honor of Hassan Guihini Khamis, as the most transformative development for horse racing in Chad to date. Previously, events were held at the aging N’Djamena racetrack or temporary sites.

« You are the first Head of State to inaugurate a facility that will host equestrian sports, horse races, house AEARCT’s operations, and feature a dedicated equestrian village », he told the President, to thunderous applause.

AEARCT’s leader also raised concerns, urging the establishment of sustainable financing mechanisms inspired by mutual betting systems used in other nations to support horse racing. Beyond its sporting significance, horse culture remains vital across Chad’s regions, where horses play a central role in traditions, livestock, and community life.

The Head of State’s presence at Afrouk and the financial commitment signal a bold step toward modernizing and professionalizing Chad’s equine industry.