Libyan horse racing, long disrupted by political instability and militia violence, is showing signs of revival with the arrival of Golden Slipper winner Vancouver at Al Shaab Stud in Tripoli. The stud, owned by Dr Aman Ashaab, was devastated in 2020 when militia stole and killed many horses, including top stallions, and destroyed much of the facility. Despite ongoing challenges such as visa restrictions and logistical hurdles for blood testing, Dr Ashaab has rebuilt the operation and expanded Libya’s breeding program, now boasting around 3,000 breeders and plans for a new $200 million racecourse in Benghazi.

Vancouver’s arrival, alongside Ribchester, marks a significant milestone for Libyan racing, bringing high-quality Australian and European bloodlines to the region. Dr Ashaab’s efforts have helped stabilize and grow the industry amid Libya’s complex political landscape, with racing now overseen by the prime minister’s office rather than agriculture. This development raises hopes that Libya could emerge as a new international hub for thoroughbred racing and breeding, following the footsteps of Saudi Arabia and Dubai in transforming regional racing industries.