Man City Owner Expands into Thoroughbreds

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice-president of the UAE and owner of Manchester City, has added another prestigious asset to his portfolio by acquiring Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard, one of Europe's most historic stud farms. According to a report by racingpost.com, with a vision to expand his thoroughbred breeding ambitions, the Normandy-based nursery, steeped in racing history, will now operate under the banner of Wathba Stallions. Originally home to legendary breeder Marcel Boussac for six decades, the stud was purchased in 1979 by Stavros Niarchos, whose family has since maintained its status as a leading breeding operation. Known for producing 45 European Classic winners, including seven Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe champions, Fresnay is set to transition into a new era under its latest ownership. Sheikh Mansour’s equine interests already include an extensive purebred Arabian racing operation in France, boasting around 900 horses under the Yas Horse Racing Management umbrella. The acquisition of Fresnay-le-Buffard signals an intent to develop a select group of thoroughbred broodmares, with the long-term aim of standing stallions at the stud. Mathieu Legars, formerly of Coolmore and recently part of the bloodstock team at Arqana, will assume the role of stud director from March 1. His appointment follows that of Chantilly Bloodstock’s Gérard Larrieu, who was enlisted last year to oversee Sheikh Mansour’s growing racing and breeding interests. Larrieu emphasized the strategic plan for Fresnay, stating, “His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan has in mind a project with thoroughbreds.” He confirmed Legars’ expertise will be instrumental in assembling a high-quality broodmare band and building a new team, with the stud also welcoming outside boarders. “In time, the plan is for the stud to return to its former role as a stallion station for thoroughbreds,” Larrieu noted. Sheikh Mansour’s presence in global sports investment is equally significant, with Manchester City at the core of the City Football Group, which spans 13 clubs worldwide including Victoria’s A League Club Melbourne City.

Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard was established in 1903 (pic: Jordan Auctioneers)