Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates and owner of Manchester City Football Club, has expanded his equestrian interests with the acquisition of the renowned Haras de Fresnay le Buffard stud farm in Normandy, France.
The purchase, valued at €26 million, was finalized on December 26, 2024, according to a statement released by Al Wathba Stud, the UAE-based equestrian operation owned by Sheikh Mansour.
The Haras de Fresnay le Buffard, a prestigious thoroughbred stud farm, has a long-standing legacy in the world of horse breeding. Located in Neuvy-au-Houlme, in the Orne department of Normandy, the farm was founded in 1903.
Its historical significance in the thoroughbred industry is undeniable, having been under the ownership of prominent figures such as Marcel Boussac from 1919 and later the Greek shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos from 1979.
The farm has earned a reputation for producing champion horses, contributing to its international prestige. The stud has been home to some of the finest horses in racing history, further elevating its status in the equestrian world.
As part of the sale, the estate includes a magnificent château, spanning over 640 m² across four levels, offering a blend of historical charm and modern luxury.
The primary section of the stud farm spans 240 hectares, with 205 hectares dedicated to pastures and 12 hectares of parkland, providing ample space for breeding and training.
Deauville Sotheby’s International Realty, which managed the sale, highlighted the grandeur of the estate, describing the property as a “unique opportunity for an exceptional buyer.”
The estate’s combination of historic appeal and substantial land is seen as a perfect fit for Sheikh Mansour’s expanding equestrian operations.
The acquisition adds to Sheikh Mansour’s already impressive portfolio of equestrian assets. His investment in horse racing and breeding has been a significant part of his wealth and influence, further solidifying the UAE’s growing role in the international racing industry.
His ownership of Al Wathba Stud has already led to success in various international races, and this latest purchase will likely contribute to his efforts to elevate the UAE’s profile in the global thoroughbred industry.
The Haras de Fresnay le Buffard acquisition is not only a testament to Sheikh Mansour’s passion for horse racing but also underscores the growing ties between the UAE and the French equestrian community.
France is renowned for its tradition in thoroughbred breeding, and this new addition to Sheikh Mansour’s holdings may open further avenues for collaboration between the two nations in the horse racing and breeding sectors.
The purchase is expected to generate significant interest in the international thoroughbred racing world, with many anticipating that Sheikh Mansour will bring his expertise and resources to enhance the stud’s already stellar reputation.
As Sheikh Mansour continues to invest in high-profile assets around the world, the acquisition of Haras de Fresnay le Buffard is another strategic move in his broader vision for success in the horse racing industry.