Ahal-Teke racehorses have remained a symbol of the Turkmen people for centuries and are today regarded as one of the hallmarks of the country’s development. Efforts are underway in Turkmenistan to preserve and promote the breed, as well as to increase its population, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden Age’.

In the year marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, a programme of events dedicated to horse breeding and equestrian sports is being implemented. At the start of the year, an Organising Committee was established to oversee horse breeding and equestrian events in 2026, and its membership was approved.

A significant development was the international success of the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group. In January, at a festival in Monte Carlo, the troupe received certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. In February, they toured the regions of Turkmenistan, and in March they performed in Baku.

In May, the Turkmen riders took part in competitions in Tashkent, where they were awarded the titles of ‘Asian Champion’ and ‘World Champion’. They also secured prize-winning places at international horse races in Kazan and took part in competitions near Windsor Castle in the UK. The troupe received further awards at the 8th International Festival of Ethnosport and Culture in Istanbul.

The performances of ‘Galkynysh’ and the successes of Turkmen riders on the international stage help to promote national horse-breeding traditions and strengthen cultural ties. Ahal-Teke horses are regarded as an important element of cultural diplomacy and a symbol of Turkmenistan’s international representation.