8 out of top 10 head to Rome for Longines Global Champions Tour Championship Showdown

Thrilling title race between Gilles Thomas, Christian Kukuk, Andreas Schou, and Harrie Smolders lights up the Circus Maximus

The world’s best show jumpers are set to descend on the historic Circus Maximus this week as the Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome returns for another unforgettable 10th edition. With just two stops remaining before the 2025 Championship reaches its grand finale in Riyadh for the Finals, all eyes will be on the Eternal City as the fight for the overall title intensifies between Gilles Thomas (BEL), Christian Kukuk (GER), Andreas Schou (DEN) and Harrie Smolders (NED).

Against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, fans can expect three days of world-class sport as veteran champions line up alongside emerging young talent. Free to the public, the event promises to combine sporting excellence with Roman history, luxury, and style.

Championship Battle Heats Up

With only three stages left in the 2025 season, the LGCT title race has reached boiling point. Belgium’s Gilles Thomas currently holds the lead following a remarkable season of consistency, while Germany’s Christian Kukuk, Denmark’s Andreas Schou and the Netherlands’ Harrie Smolders remain within striking distance. With all four in Rome it’s anyones game to take!

Joining them in Rome are a host of global stars including Edwina Tops-Alexander, Henrik von Eckermann, Martin Fuchs, Christian Ahlmann, Maikel van der Vleuten, and reigning LGCT Champion Max Kühner, alongside Italy’s finest - Piergiorgio Bucci, Emanuele Gaudiano, Emanuele Camilli, Giacomo Casadei, and Riccardo Pisani - who will all look to shine on home soil.

Among the rising U25 stars taking centre stage this week are Giacomo Casadei (ITA), Roy van Beek (NED), and Lara Tryba (FRA), showcasing the next generation of international show jumping talent.

The stage is set for a blockbuster weekend as the sport’s biggest names go head-to-head beneath the Roman skyline. With the14th  LGCT Super Grand Prix ticket on the line, no riders will give an inch this weekend. A spectacular line-up of talent will take to the iconic Circus Maximus arena, promising fierce competition from start to finish. Belgium’s Pieter Devos brings trademark precision and determination as he looks to climb up the rankings, while last year’s LGCT Grand Prix of Rome winner Victor Bettendorf returns to repeat history. France’s Simon Delestre, known for his agility and finesse, will be another serious contender as he hunts a podium finish.

Eyes will also be on Ireland’s Denis Lynch and Bertram Allen, whose sharp instincts and fearless style make them a constant threat, while Germany’s Sophie Hinners and Katrin Eckermann both arrive in red-hot form after standout performances earlier in the season. Adding extra excitement, Eduardo Alvarez Aznar of Spain and Marlon Módolo Zanotelli of Brazil bring international flair and consistency to the star-studded roster. Italian hopes rest firmly on homegrown stars Emanuele Camilli and Giacomo Casadei, who will be eager to deliver crowd-pleasing performances on home turf.

Voices from the Opening Press Conference

Rome’s leading officials and event organisers gathered at today’s opening press conference to celebrate the city’s long-standing connection to equestrian sport:

Alessandro Onorato, Councilor for Major Events, Sports, Tourism & Fashion, Roma Capitale:

“Rome has changed over the years, recognising the great community and economic impact that major events bring. Now the city truly understands how important it is to have world-class events like this. Thank you to the Longines Global Champions Tour for bringing this incredible spectacle to Rome.”

Svetlana Celli, President of the Capitoline Assembly:

“The fact that this event takes place here, where horses competed 3,000 years ago, is extraordinary. It’s fantastic for the city to host and grow events of this scale.”

Remo Chiodi, General Director for Equestrian, MASAF:

“Having this leg of the LGCT in Rome shines a light on the visibility of the Italian horse and the importance of our national equestrian heritage.”

Paola Frassinetti, Undersecretary, Ministry of Education and Merit:

“Equestrianism is inclusive and transformative — it keeps young people active, engaged, and helps them grow into better adults.”

Marco di Paola, President of FISE and Vice President of CONI:

“This event not only brings the best athletes in the world but also creates jobs, interest, and inspiration — a win for both sport and the wider community.”

Eleonora Di Giuseppe, Event Coordinator LGCT Rome:

“Ten years ago Jan Tops decided to bring the Tour to Rome, and it has become one of the most iconic events of the season. Each year we raise the bar even higher.”

Marco Danese, LGCT Sports Director:

“Out of the 40 great athletes competing this weekend, 30 are among the top in the world — any of them could win. Rome will witness something truly spectacular.”

Jean Luca, Event Representative:

“The horse will be celebrated as an athlete — because Rome was the first city to recognise the horse as an athlete, equal to the rider.”

A Celebration of Sport, History and Heritage

As fans gather in the heart of Rome from 10–12 October, the Longines Global Champions Tour will deliver world-class sport, Italian flair, and unforgettable moments. The stage is set for a dramatic weekend where the world’s finest riders battle for glory, history, and precious Championship points beneath the Roman sun.

Don’t miss it - the Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome promises a weekend where the past meets the present, and champions are made beneath the shadows of history.