Riyadh, December 7, 2024 – The highly anticipated Jump Saudi Equestrian Championship officially kicked off on Thursday in Riyadh, marking a significant moment in the Kingdom’s growing influence in the world of equestrian sports. The event has attracted a stellar lineup of top-tier equestrians, including six riders ranked among the top 100 in the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) world rankings, which were last updated on December 3. Among the notable participants are renowned Saudi riders Abdullah Al-Sharbatly and Khaled Al-Mobty, both of whom have earned recognition on the global stage for their exceptional skills in show jumping.
The championship, which brings together 100 male and female riders representing 24 countries, is a major international competition held at the Saudi Jumping venue in Janadriyah. The venue has been specially designed to meet the highest standards for international equestrian events, providing a world-class setting for the riders and their horses. Over the course of the championship, riders will compete in 12 rounds across two main categories: the two-star and four-star competitions. These categories offer varying levels of difficulty and showcase the versatility and precision of the participating athletes.
A key highlight of the event is the inclusion of a qualifying round for the decisive stages leading to the 2025 World Cup. This adds an extra layer of prestige to the championship, as riders not only vie for titles in Riyadh but also compete for a chance to secure their place in the prestigious World Cup competition. The inclusion of this qualifying round underscores the importance of Jump Saudi as a vital stepping stone for equestrians on their path to global success.
The Jump Saudi championship is more than just a sporting event; it is a testament to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing equestrian sports and enhancing its presence on the global stage. Through hosting such high-profile competitions, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key player in the international equestrian arena, providing a platform for both local and international talent to showcase their skills. The event also aligns with the Kingdom’s broader vision to foster cultural exchange, promote sports tourism, and contribute to the development of competitive sports across various disciplines.
As the championship progresses, the spotlight will continue to shine on the exceptional riders and horses competing for victory, while the Kingdom’s dedication to building a robust equestrian culture is further solidified. With its state-of-the-art facilities, world-class competition, and international appeal, Jump Saudi is set to become a fixture on the global equestrian calendar, bringing together the best of the sport while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the international sports community.