Riyadh, November 24, 2024 – The curtain will fall today on the highly anticipated "Riyadh Final" of the Longines Global Champions Tour, as the event reaches its thrilling climax with the crowning of the Super Champion. This prestigious competition marks the conclusion of an extraordinary 266 days of world-class equestrian sports, spanning 15 cities across the globe. With the spotlight now on Riyadh, the stage is set for an exciting finale that promises to be a spectacular conclusion to a remarkable season.
Throughout the 2024 season, the Longines Global Champions Tour has brought together the very best in showjumping, with riders from all corners of the world competing at the highest level. After a season of intense and fiercely contested events, six elite teams have successfully earned their place in the Riyadh Final. These teams – Shanghai Swans, Riesenbeck International, Stockholm Hearts, Prague Lions, and the Scandinavian Vikings – secured their spots after rigorous qualification rounds held since last Wednesday, where a total of 14 teams vied for the coveted positions.
The competition is taking place at a spectacular venue located near the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, where the grandeur of the city’s modern skyline provides a stunning backdrop to the thrilling action. The setting is nothing short of spectacular, with state-of-the-art facilities creating an unforgettable atmosphere for both the riders and spectators. The event promises to be a memorable showcase of skill, precision, and athleticism, as the teams battle for the ultimate prize.
The 2024 Global Champions League season has taken fans on a remarkable journey around the world, beginning in Doha last March. Over the course of the year, the competition has visited some of the most iconic and beautiful cities on the planet. From the bustling streets of Miami and Mexico City to the historic grandeur of Shanghai, Madrid, and Paris, the tour has captivated audiences in cities such as Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Stockholm, Monaco, Berlin, London, Valkenswaard, Rome, and Rabat, before making its way to Riyadh for the grand finale.
The stakes are high, with a total prize pool of SAR 43.4 million up for grabs across the Global Champions League events. Each team has invested significantly in their pursuit of victory, with the participation fee for each team set at SAR 9.7 million. This immense financial commitment underscores the prestige and importance of the competition, which not only serves as a celebration of the sport but also as a showcase for the global reach and growing popularity of equestrian sports.
As the Longines Global Champions Tour draws to a close today, all eyes are on Riyadh, where the next Super Champion will be crowned, and history will be made in the world of showjumping.