Paris – January 7, 2025 – The Paris office of Addleshaw Goddard has advised Al Wathba Stud in the acquisition of the prestigious Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard, which was put up for sale for €26 million.

Al Wathba Stud, based in Abu Dhabi and owned by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court of the United Arab Emirates, has acquired Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard.

Founded in 1903, Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard is a historic stud farm renowned for breeding thoroughbreds in France. Located primarily in the commune of Neuvy-au-Houlme (Orne), it gained international recognition under the ownership of Marcel Boussac in 1919 and later Stavros Niarchos in 1979. The iconic site has been home to numerous champion horses, including seven Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winners, several Breeders’ Cup champions, and over 180 Classic winners.

This 325-hectare property includes a château, two large secondary residences, numerous buildings, 200 horse stalls, an indoor arena, and a training track.

The multidisciplinary team at Addleshaw Goddard included Edouard Vitry (partner, real estate/construction), François Alambret (partner, labor law), and Blandine Bourelle (senior associate, real estate/construction). The buyer was also assisted by the notary firm Bloche Darras Pottier (Vincent Pottier).

The seller was advised by De Gaulle Fleurance (Vincent Schmitt and Daniel Hatzakortzian), Dalverny (Célia Dufour), FTPA Avocats (Lorelei Gannat), Me Kouvela-Piquet, and the notary firm D&Associés (Anne-Laure Lelièvre).