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Conclusion of the Longines Global Champions League Show Jumping Finals in Riyadh

The Saudi Equestrian Federation concluded the finals of the Longines Global Champions League (GCL) Show Jumping competition, held in Riyadh for the first time outside Europe. The event, which began on November 20 at the venue opposite King Abdullah Financial District, featured the participation of top international teams and riders.

Results of the Championship

The Stockholm Hearts team claimed first place, followed by Shanghai Swans in second and Riesenbeck International in third. The champions were crowned by His Excellency Bader Al-Kadi, Deputy Minister of Sports, and His Highness Prince Abdullah bin Fahd bin Abdullah, President of the Saudi Equestrian Federation.

Championship Journey and Prizes

The 2024 Global Champions League season began in Doha in March, traveling through 15 major cities, including Miami, Shanghai, Madrid, and Paris, before concluding in Riyadh. The total prize pool for the finals amounted to €11 million (43.4 million SAR), with 132 riders and 191 horses from various nations competing.

Accompanying Event for Local Riders

Alongside the finals, the Saudi Equestrian Federation organized a two-star accompanying event featuring six rounds. This competition saw significant participation, including 58 Saudi riders with 75 horses, providing local riders the opportunity to engage with and learn from international experts in the sport.

Historical Background of the Championship

The Longines Global Champions League (GCL) was launched in 2016, inspired by the vision of its founder, Jan Tops. The championship aimed to redefine show jumping by introducing a team-based competition format, fostering collaboration among riders from different countries within mixed teams, regardless of nationality.

Since its inception, GCL has become a cornerstone of international equestrian events, traveling to major cities across continents and showcasing top-tier performances. The Riyadh edition marks the first time the championship has been hosted outside Europe, reflecting Saudi Arabia's growing stature as a global hub for sports events.

A Remarkable Season

The championship spanned 266 days of continuous competitions, featuring 14 international teams, including Shanghai Swans, Stockholm Hearts, Prague Lions, and Cannes Stars.

Conclusion

With the conclusion of the Longines Global Champions League in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has achieved another milestone in hosting world-class events and strengthening its position in the global sports arena.