Return to news index
Winner will take all in Riyadh as riders announced for Longines Global Champions Tour Final
The equestrian world is buzzing with anticipation as the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are set to take place from 26 - 28 October. As the pinnacle of the 2023 season, the Finals promises to deliver electrifying competition and battles between the world's top riders.
Among the esteemed participants, three riders stand on the precipice of history, contending for the coveted 2023 season Championship title.
Dutch sensation Harrie Smolders is another rider who has left a dramatic impression on the Longines Global Champions Tour throughout the 2023 season. Known for his strategic approach and impeccable timing, Smolders' presents an opportunity for him to clinch the season Championship title for a second time as he last won it back in 2017. Smolders will be wearing the iconic Championship leaders armband for the last LGCT Grand Prix of the season but will be able to use the pressure to his advantage as he sits on 252 points going into Riyadh.
World number one Henrik von Eckermann, the Swedish show jumping maestro, is a household name in the sporting world. Having enjoyed a stellar season filled with a remarkable two LGCT Grand Prix victories on King Edward, Henrik arrives in Riyadh with great expectations. A consistent performer and an iconic figure on the circuit, von Eckermann is poised to leave an indelible mark on the finals as he heads in on 235 points.
The third rider in contention for the 2023 season Championship title is Maikel van der Vleuten, hailing from the Netherlands. Van der Vleuten's journey throughout the season has been marked by ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are high. He enters the Finals on 235 points with the hope of etching his name in the history books.
With Jur Vrieling and Ben Maher flying out to Saudi Arabia for Paris Panthers’ battle against Riesenbeck International powered by Kingsland Equestrian it is one not to be missed! It’s a full Beerbaum stables squad for Riesenbeck International with Philipp Weishaupt, Christian Kukuk and Eoin McMahon. Having tasted victory last year they will be doing everything in their power to make sure they bring the 2023 GCL trophy home!
Home riders Abdulrahman Alrajhi, Ramzy Al Duhami, Kamal Bahamdan, Saad Alajmi and Abdullah Al Sharbatly will be up against the likes of Max Kuhner, Christian Ahlmann, Martin Fuchs, Simon Delestre, last year’s LGCT Grand Prix of Riyadh winner Michael Pender, as well as Edwina Tops-Alexander, Pieter Devos, Peder Fredricson and Malin Baryard-Johnsson.
The 2023 Longines Global Champions Tour Finals in Riyadh promises to be a spectacle of world-class sport. Fans from around the globe will witness the crowning of a new champion and a celebration of another epic season.
Don't miss your chance to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 2023 season.
