The world's most elite equestrians are set to descend upon the iconic city of London for the 12th leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL team series, promising an unparalleled display of world-class show jumping. This year's event, hosted in the historic grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, is set to be one of the most exciting to date, featuring a star-studded lineup of riders fresh from their triumphs at the Paris 2024.
The 2024 edition of LGCT London will be headlined by all four of Gold Medallists of Great Britain: Ben Maher, Scott Brash, Harry Charles, and Germany’s Christian Kukuk. Their presence alone sets the stage for an extraordinary competition, but the excitement doesn't stop there. Also joining the fray will be Simon Delestre, a key member of the French team that clinched Team Bronze, and Maikel van der Vleuten, who took individual bronze for the Netherlands.
In total, a remarkable 15 riders from Paris 2024 will head straight to London, making this year's event a true gathering of the sport's global superstars. But it doesn’t stop there as 9 out of the top 10 Longines Global Champions Tour ranking will be in London as the 2024 LGCT Championship race heats up. All eyes will be on the current overall ranking leader Max Kuhner as he strives to secure crucial points in London. With the stakes higher than ever, the competition promises to be a dramatic and thrilling spectacle for spectators, especially as Andreas Schou who sits in second just behind Kuhner will be chasing him down.
Gilles Thomas and long-time LGCT Championship leader at the start of the year Eduardo Alvarez Aznar will be all guns blazing in the heart of London aiming to catapult into the top 3 again. While Janne Friederike Meyer Zimmermann and Edwina Tops-Alexander are on exceptional form at the moment, will either of the female firepower be able to take the crown from last year’s LGCT Grand Prix of London winner Jessica Springsteen.
The rivalry between Scott Brash and Ben Maher, both of whom have previously tasted victory at LGCT London, is sure to captivate the home crowd once more. The two British legends will battle it out alongside an impressive lineup of international competitors, eager to claim victory on British soil.
Joining the British contingent will be a strong lineup of homegrown talent, including the legendary Whitaker family - John, Jack, Robert and Donald - as well as rising British star Oliver Fletcher. Their presence will bolster the British bid to reclaim victory at this prestigious event. They will have their fair share of international competition from the likes of Christian Ahlmann, Philipp Weishaupt, Niels Bruynseels, Richard Vogel, Malin Baryard-Johnsson and LGCT Grand Prix winning brothers this season Olivier and Nicola Philippaerts.
The UK boasts a vibrant equestrian community, and the London leg of the LGCT is a highlight of the season for fans and competitors alike. With the event falling at a crucial juncture in the 2024 season, the race for a place in the GC Riyadh Playoffs will be more intense than ever with just four golden tickets to the Longines Global Champions Tour Super Grand Prix left.
Don't miss your chance to witness history in the making at one of the sport's most iconic venues. Sunday is completely sold out but there are a limited number of tickets available for Friday and Saturday - be sure to secure your spot for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of sport and entertainment.
The Longines Global Champions Tour of London isn't just a must-see event for equestrian enthusiasts; it's also a fantastic family day out. The charming Royal Hospital Chelsea offers a unique blend of history and elegance, creating a picturesque backdrop for a day of entertainment and enjoyment. From thrilling equestrian action to delectable food and beverage options, interactive children's activities, and shopping boutiques, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
For those unable to attend in person, the Longines Global Champions Tour of London will be available for live streaming on GCTV, ensuring that fans from around the world can share in the excitement and drama of this exciting event.
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