LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18 / AP) – Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the deputy governor of Dubai and an internationally renowned knight, died at the age of 75. Hamdan was also the owner of Shadwell’s more than 3,200-acre farm in Lexington.
“Sheikh Hamdan was a beloved figure around the world, esteemed for his grace, humanity, loyalty, knowledge and sportsmanship,” said Keeneland President and CEO, Shannon Arvin, in a statement. “Although he achieved great success as a purebred breeder and owner through his global operation Shadwell Farm, he made numerous contributions to the sport – many of which were behind the scenes.”
Emirati officials announced his death without specifying the cause. Sheikh Hamdan had been in poor health for several months. Last fall, he flew abroad for unspecified surgery and, in recent weeks, his brother, Sheikh Mohammed, tweeted prayers for his recovery.
Sheikh Hamdan owned eight studs in Britain, Kentucky and Ireland, with hundreds of royally bred horses and top-class stallions.
“It is a time to reflect on your achievements and your enormous contribution to the global purebred and Arab industries,” said Shadwell Racing in a statement. “Your legacy will live on through your horses.”
A tremendous sadness fell over Shadwell Farm this morning when we woke up to find out about the death of SS Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum! What a great loss for so many! He touched the lives of so many people in a positive way. pic.twitter.com/TcPkaGvZ5Z
– Shadwell Farm (@ShadwellFarm) March 24, 2021
“Keeneland is grateful for his strong support for our sales and racing programs, including Shadwell’s involvement in our philanthropic activities,” said Arvin. “Sheikh Hamdan’s one-year purchases here include highlights such as the winner of Group 1 Dayjur and the winner of Belmont (G1) Jazil, and he also participated significantly in our November breeding stock sale. On the race track in Keeneland, Shadwell won nine entries led by the Queen of 2008 Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) with Alwajeeha. Because of Shadwell’s encouragement, Keeneland started the Best Turned Out award program to recognize the hard-working grooms when Shadwell started sponsor Keeneland’s mile-long grass race during the 1999 Fall Meet. Keeneland is extremely proud of that race, the Shadwell Turf Mile (G1), which became our first million dollar event in 2014, is the anchor of the our Fall Stars Weekend and is an important stop on the way to the Breeders’ Cup. “
His funeral will be restricted to the family because of COVID-19, according to the Dubai government media office, which ordered the closure of government offices for three days of mourning.