The prestigious Global Champions Playoffs (GC Playoffs) is set to embark on an exciting journey as it announces its confirmed locations for the years 2024 to 2029. Organisers have unveiled plans for the Playoffs to alternate annually, between Riyadh and Prague. The new direction will kick off in 2024, with Riyadh hosting the event in even years and Prague taking the reins in odd years.
The decision to rotate between these two iconic cities reflects the global appeal and growth of the sport of show jumping. Riyadh and Prague, each with their unique cultural landscapes and fervent equestrian communities, will provide an unparalleled stage for showcasing the world’s top riders and horses in the Longines Global Champions Tour Super Grand Prix and the GCL Super Cup.
“We are thrilled to announce this groundbreaking rotation between Riyadh and Prague for the Global Champions Playoffs as it marks a new chapter in the history of the Playoffs”
said Jan Tops, Founder and President of the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL.
“This strategic move not only highlights the global nature of our sport but also opens up new avenues for expanding its reach and engaging with diverse audiences worldwide.”
The GC Playoffs stand as the pinnacle of equestrian sport, attracting elite athletes and enthusiasts from around the globe. With a prize purse that rivals any major sporting event, the Playoffs offers a thrilling format for fans, owners, riders, teams and stakeholders.
“The announcement of Prague hosting the GC Playoffs in 2025 fills us with immense pride and excitement,”
said Jan Andrlík, event director of the GC Prague Playoffs.
“It is brilliant to have the O2 arena back on the calendar next year and to have the one-of-a-kind event secured for the future.”
In Riyadh, anticipation is equally high, with fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of the GC Playoffs in November 2024.
“Riyadh is honoured to host the GC Playoffs for the first time in 2024,”
said Rayan Khuraishi, Riyadh event director.
“We are ready to welcome riders, fans, and spectators from around the world to experience the thrill of individual and team show jumping at its finest.”
The alternating venues promise to add a new dimension to the GC Playoffs. The offering allows fans and participants the opportunity to experience different cultures and atmospheres while celebrating the shared passion for equestrian excellence.
The GC Playoffs is the biggest weekend of show jumping in the world, both in terms of prize money and the sheer spectacle of the sport, entertainment and emotions. As the countdown begins to the first showdown in Riyadh in 2024, excitement is building for what promises to be an unforgettable series of events.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.