The Ahal-Teke horse is one of the symbols of Turkmenistan and holds a special place in the country’s history and culture. Over the centuries, Turkmen horse breeders have passed down their knowledge of breeding the breed, shaping its characteristic qualities — endurance, speed and the ability to withstand a hot climate, reports the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’.

The breed’s name is linked to the Ahal oasis and the Teke tribe. In traditional Turkmen culture, the horse was not only a means of transport, but also a faithful companion and helper to man.

The history of the Ahal-Teke is intertwined with numerous legends. According to one widely held theory, the breed’s ancestor may have been Bucephalus — Alexander the Great’s horse, which in ancient times was associated with the Nisean racehorses. Sources also mention the special regard held for these horses in Ancient China, where they were called ‘heavenly horses’.

The traditional training system played an important role in the development of the breed. Turkmen grooms paid great attention to individual care and close contact with the horse. This contributed to the development of the behavioural traits and character of the Ahal-Teke.

The Ahal-Teke horse occupies a prominent place in the culture of Turkmenistan. Its image is reflected in literature, art and architecture, and is also featured on the country’s national emblems. The horse is perceived as a symbol of strength, freedom, dignity and the pursuit of goals.

The year 2026 is being held under the motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’. Throughout the year, the country is hosting equestrian competitions, exhibitions, international meetings, and scientific and cultural events dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses.

One such international event was the World Equestrian Championship and Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest, held in early September at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg, Kingdom of the Netherlands. The event was attended by over 100 representatives of the breed from 25 countries.

International events featuring Ahal-Teke horses contribute to the development of cooperation in the field of horse breeding and the promotion of the breed outside Turkmenistan. The traditions of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and the art of horse decoration have also gained international cultural recognition.

The preservation and development of Ahal-Teke horse breeding remains one of the priorities of Turkmenistan’s state policy. The country is creating favourable conditions for the keeping and breeding of racehorses, and hosts national and international events. Particular attention is paid to passing on the traditions of horse grooming to the younger generation and to expanding international cooperation.

Today, the Ahal-Teke racehorse represents Turkmenistan at international competitions, exhibitions and other events, maintaining the link between the country’s modern equestrian sector and the centuries-old traditions of Turkmen horse breeding.