Riyadh, November 24, 2024 – The Longines Global Champions Tour reached its thrilling conclusion yesterday with the "Riyadh Final," held at a stunning venue near the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh. The event, which began last Wednesday, was a celebration of equestrian excellence, bringing together some of the world’s top riders and teams for an unforgettable finale. The champions were crowned by Vice Minister of Sports, Bader AlKadi, and Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, President of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation (SAEF), marking a prestigious moment for Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the international equestrian scene.
The competition saw the Stockholm Hearts team claim first place, securing the championship title after an impressive series of performances. The Shanghai Swans finished in second place, followed closely by the Riesenbeck International team in third. Each of these teams showcased incredible skill and teamwork, ultimately earning their spot on the podium in a highly competitive and action-packed finale.
The 2024 season of the Longines Global Champions Tour has been a global journey, beginning in Doha last March and traveling through some of the most iconic cities in the world. From Miami to Mexico, Shanghai to Madrid, and Paris to Monaco, the tour traversed 15 cities in total before arriving in Riyadh. The competition attracted 132 riders and 191 horses from 30 different countries, all competing for their share of the SAR 43.4 million prize pool. The Riyadh Final, with its world-class facilities and exceptional organization, provided a fitting stage for the season’s climactic conclusion.
In addition to the main competition, the "Riyadh Final" also featured a two-star affiliated event, which added even more excitement and opportunity for riders. This secondary competition consisted of six rounds and included 58 talented Saudi riders and 75 horses. This initiative was aimed at providing local competitors with the invaluable chance to showcase their skills and gain experience alongside some of the most accomplished riders in the world. The inclusion of Saudi riders in such a prestigious event reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and developing equestrian talent at the international level.
As the "Riyadh Final" came to a close, the success of the event underscored Saudi Arabia's growing presence in the world of equestrian sports. With its modern infrastructure, world-class facilities, and passionate fanbase, Riyadh has proven itself as a premier destination for global sporting events. The Longines Global Champions Tour’s finale in Riyadh not only highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting top-tier sporting events but also reaffirmed its position as a key player in the international equestrian community.
