Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable milestone as more than 280 national riders participated in the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour over the past four years, marking a significant advancement in the Kingdom’s equestrian ambitions. The achievement reflects the successful implementation of the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation’s comprehensive strategy to expand participation and enhance international competitiveness.
Growing International Presence
The current Riyadh final round of the Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League for show jumping has drawn 40 elite riders from 19 countries and features 17 international teams, positioning the Kingdom as a major hub for international equestrian excellence. The event demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global equestrian sports and its capability to host world-class sporting events.
Record-Breaking Saudi Participation
The 2025 edition has set a new benchmark with 82 Saudi male and female riders participating in the accompanying events, showing consistent growth from previous years’ participation of 63 riders in 2022, 58 in 2023, and 80 in 2024. This upward trajectory reflects the successful efforts to develop local talent and promote equestrian sports within the Kingdom.
The tournament’s first day witnessed an impressive turnout of 140 international competitors from diverse nations including Morocco, Syria, the United Kingdom, Poland, France, and various Middle Eastern countries, underlining the event’s global appeal and competitive nature.
Enhanced Competition Format
The Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation has enriched the tournament structure by incorporating a two-star international show jumping event alongside the main competition. This additional format, featuring six rounds over three days, provides valuable competitive opportunities for emerging riders and helps bridge the gap between national and international levels of competition.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This sustained growth in Saudi equestrian participation aligns perfectly with Vision 2030’s goals of promoting sports excellence and establishing the Kingdom as a global sporting destination. The success of the Longines Global Champions Tour in Riyadh, combined with the increasing number of Saudi riders competing at an international level, demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to developing world-class athletes while preserving its rich equestrian heritage for future generations.