Get ready for a show jumping spectacle as the 2025 Longines Global Champions Tour makes its grand return to Saudi Arabia for its breathtaking season finale. This prestigious event brings together the world's elite equestrian athletes and their magnificent horses for a high-stakes competition, a combination of raw power with sheer elegance. This year, Riyadh will host the competition, a celebration of heritage, luxury and world-class skill. It is expected to bring thousands of audiences from across the globe to Riyadh. The Champions Tour will be a perfect adrenaline-pumping experience and if you are ready for it, come to Riyadh. This competition is sure to have a serious impact on the entertainment and sports industry in Saudi Arabia. It is good to know more about 2025 Longines Global Champions Tour, including the tickets, schedule and other entertainment options surrounding the tournament. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about attending this incredible event.
What is the Longines Global Champions Tour?
The Longines Global Champions Tour is widely regarded as the Formula 1 of the show jumping world. Established in 2006, the tour visits glamorous destinations across the globe, from Paris to Shanghai, before culminating in a thrilling final showdown. In 2025, Riyadh will host the final leg and it is crucial as tens of thousands of spectators will come to see the crowning of the champion. While top-ranked riders compete for the most coveted title in the sport and a staggering prize purse, thousands of fans cheer for them, creating a celebration mood. Riyadh is chosen for its incredible atmosphere, combining the intensity of elite competition with the warm hospitality and rich culture of Saudi Arabia.
Main Attractions & Event Highlights
Opening Ceremony
The event kicks off with an Opening Ceremony that beautifully merges sporting tradition with Saudi culture. A parade of the international athletes and their horses add charm to the event. It creates a powerful visual of the global talent gathered. Expect to see stunning displays of local arts, music, and performances that set an energetic and welcoming tone for the days ahead. It’s the perfect introduction to the event’s grand scale. Arrive about an hour before the ceremony begins to get a proper seat in the grandstand and soak in the vibrant pre-show atmosphere.
GCL Team Competition
The Global Champions League (GCL) team competition is a thrilling highlight spread over two days. In this competition, riders compete for their city-based teams in a high-pressure, two-round format. It’s a fascinating display of strategy and teamwork, as managers select the best horse-and-rider combinations to tackle the challenging course. The collective cheers for teams create an electric atmosphere unlike anything else in the sport. To get the most out of this segment, pick a team to follow throughout the competition. The team standings can shift dramatically, making it a captivating watch.
The Grand Prix Warm-Up Arena
For a true behind-the-scenes look at the sport, spend some time near the warm-up arena. This is a perfect location to observe the incredible partnership between riders and their horses as they prepare for the main event. Watching their focused training routines, practice jumps, and quiet moments of connection offers a deeper appreciation for the skill and athleticism involved. This area will mostly be less crowded than the main grandstand, giving you a more intimate viewing experience. It’s an ideal spot for aspiring riders and photographers to observe the techniques of the world's best. The best time to watch is about 30-45 minutes before a major class begins.
Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix Final
This is the ultimate showdown or the individual competition everyone has been waiting for. The Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix is the pinnacle of the event, where riders compete for the largest prize and the prestigious title. The course is at its most technical and demanding, testing the precision, speed, and bravery of each pair. The tension is palpable as riders navigate the course against the clock, with a single rail down costing them the win. For the best experience, find a seat in the central grandstand that gives you a view of the entire course, including the start and finish lines. The collective gasp and cheer of the crowd with every clear round is an experience in itself.
The Prize Giving and Closing Ceremony
Don't leave before the final Prize Giving Ceremony. You need to join the crowd cheering for the champions. The ceremony is filled with emotion and pageantry, featuring the presentation of trophies, the national anthems, and the iconic lap of honor by the winners. It's a moment of pure triumph and a fitting conclusion to an intense season of competition.
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Tips to Explore the Best of Longines Global Champions Tour
- Buy Tickets in Advance: The tickets will be hot selling cakes and you need to grab them in advance. Purchase them online from the official event website as soon as they are released to secure your spot.
- Arrive Early: Beat the traffic and crowds by arriving at least 1-2 hours before the first major competition of the day. This gives you time to park the car, locate your seat, and explore the venue.
- Choose Your View: While the main grandstand offers a complete view, sitting near a corner allows you to see the technical skill required to navigate tight turns. The upper tiers are great to understand the course layout.
- Dress Smart and Comfortably: The dress code is typically smart casual. Opt for breathable fabrics suitable for warm days and bring a jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll be walking a lot.
- Explore the Fan Village: The venue usually has a village area with merchandise stalls, food trucks and interactive exhibits. It’s a great place to take a break between competitions.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Riyadh can be dry and sunny. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water stations are usually available, but bringing your own bottle is a good idea.
- Use Ridesharing Services: The celebration will bring in a huge crowd and it will be a tough task to find a parking space. Using a rideshare service like Uber or Careem can save you time and hassle, dropping you off near the main entrance.
- Bring Binoculars: To get a closer look at the action and see the expressions of the riders and the power of the horses, a pair of binoculars is an excellent accessory.
- Respect Local Customs: Though the event is international, it's important to respect the local Saudi Arabian culture. Dress modestly when outside the main venue.
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Travel Guide for Event Visitors
- Visa Policy: International visitors can get an e-Visa online before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Check the official Saudi tourism portal for the latest requirements for your nationality.
- Ideal Travel Dates: Arrive by November 19th and depart on or after November 23rd, 2025 as this allows you to attend all competition days and explore some of Riyadh.
- Nearby Accommodation: Riyadh has a wide range of luxury and budget-friendly hotels. You may stay in areas like the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) or Olaya for easy access to the venue and city attractions.
- Language: Though Arabic is the official language, you will face no difficulty as English is widely spoken at the event venue, hotels, and major tourist spots.
- Transport Options: The Riyadh Metro is an efficient way to get around the city. Taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Careem are also readily available and convenient for getting to the venue.
- Food and Drink: A variety of food and beverage options are available for purchase inside the venue, from quick snacks to more substantial meals. Both local and international cuisine are typically offered.
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The Longines Global Champions Tour in Riyadh is sure to change the sports atmosphere in Saudi Arabia. This will just be a beginning and sooner, more international tournaments will follow. You may become a part of this unparalleled experience of sporting excellence and cultural celebration by booking tickets. Attending this event gives you a front-row seat to history as the world's best show jumpers vie for the ultimate title. It’s a chance to witness the incredible bond between horse and rider, feel the energy of the crowd, and enjoy the luxurious hospitality of Saudi Arabia. To make your trip seamless and unforgettable, consider booking your travel and tour package through Regency Holidays to explore Riyadh and beyond.
FAQ’s - Longines Global Champions Tour
Tickets should be purchased from the official Longines Global Champions Tour or GCL websites. You should get them in advance online as they will be sold out faster.
Yes, the event is family-friendly, and children are welcome. It’s an inspiring event for young aspiring riders and animal lovers.
Using a rideshare service like Uber or Careem is often the most convenient option. If you are using public transport, check the closest Riyadh Metro station to the venue and see if shuttle services are offered.
Absolutely. The event is held in a secure, well-managed venue with a significant international crowd. Riyadh is generally a safe city for solo travelers, but it's always wise to take standard precautions.
A smart casual dress code is recommended. Attendees often dress elegantly, but comfort is key. Modest attire is respectful of local culture, and comfortable footwear is essential.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue. There will be numerous vendors on-site offering a wide variety of options to cater to different tastes.
November in Riyadh usually offers pleasant weather, with warm, sunny days and cooler evenings. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F), so packing a light jacket or sweater is a good idea.
Riyadh is a city rich with attractions. You can explore the historic Al-Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the Kingdom Centre for panoramic city views, or shop at the bustling Souq Al Zal.
