Riyadh, November 20, 2024 – The highly anticipated Longines Global Champions Tour Final has officially commenced in Riyadh, with the world’s finest horses arriving ahead of the competition. The event, which kicks off on Wednesday at the state-of-the-art arena located near the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), promises to be a spectacular showcase of equestrian talent.
In the lead-up to the competition, the horses underwent rigorous veterinary checks conducted by the medical committee. These evaluations included both physical and medical assessments, alongside a series of additional tests to ensure that all participating horses meet the strict standards required for the intense demands of show jumping. This thorough preparation reflects the event’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety and performance for both the animals and riders.
Once the veterinary procedures were completed, riders were granted permission to begin their warm-up sessions. These initial sessions provided both the horses and riders with an opportunity to acclimatize to the competition arena. This familiarization period is crucial, as the Longines Global Champions Tour is renowned for its exacting standards and high-pressure environment, which demands optimal performance from every participant.
The Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation, as part of its comprehensive preparations, has set up dedicated stables at the competition venue to accommodate the participating horses. These stables have been specially designed to house horses arriving from a wide range of locations, including Europe, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and from within Saudi Arabia itself. The horses participating in the event are among the most elite and valuable in the world, underscoring the high caliber of the competition.
The championship has attracted a truly global field, with a total of 132 riders and 191 horses representing 30 countries. Among the nations participating are Algeria, Austria, Brazil, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, the United States, and the host nation, Saudi Arabia. This diverse representation highlights the global appeal of the Longines Global Champions Tour and the significance of the Riyadh event in the international equestrian calendar.
As the competition begins, the excitement builds, with competitors from around the world vying for victory in one of the most prestigious show jumping events. The atmosphere is set to be charged with anticipation, as these top-tier equestrians and their highly trained horses take center stage, showcasing their skill, precision, and passion for the sport.