The iconic Circus Maximus sets the stage for equestrian history as the Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome commences the 7th edition of the Rome event. The opening press conference, held amidst the grandeur of the Circus Maximus, marked the official launch of this highly anticipated event.
As the 14th stage of the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL Championship Races, the event promises unparalleled equestrian excellence and a stunning backdrop for all attendees.
The Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL Sports Director, Marco Danese, welcomed a distinguished panel of guests, including LGCT Rome Event Coordinator Eleonora di Giuseppe, Alessandro Onorato, City of Rome Councilor of Global Events, Sport, Tourism and Fashion, Claudio Barbaro, Undersecretary of State for the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, Senator Isabella Rauti, Undersecretary of State of Ministry of Defence, The Honourable Paola Frassinetti, Ministry of Education and Merit, The Honourable Frederico Mollicone, President of the Commission for Culture, Science and Education, Svetlana Celli, President of The Rome Municipality Assembly, Fabio Pacciani the Superintendent of The Rome Municipality Assembly for Cultural Heritage, Alessandro Cochi, Lazio Sport Offices, Marco di Paola, President of the Italian Equestrian Federation and Marco Porro Technical Commissioner Italian Show Jumping Team.
Alessandro Onorato, City of Rome Councilor of Global Events, Sport, Tourism and Fashion expressed his pride in Rome playing host to such an iconic event in a the spectacular location of Circus Maximus, he said “This year in 2023, Rome is living a golden moment in sports and the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL team series is part of it. This great event places our city among the greatest in the world and we Romans love it!”
With a city world renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Circus Maximus, the city is earning global visibility due to prestigious sporting events, such as the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL team series.
Marco Danese, reflecting on the week ahead, stated, "At this time of year Rome is a perfect place to host the fourteenth stage of the Longines Global Champions Tour and GCL team series as riders. Families come to enjoy the spectacle of top sport, as well as, to simply take in this city’s incredible atmosphere.
He went on to add, “The best riders are set to compete here this year in their chance to add some of the final points available in both Championship races, so I have no doubt that the event will be magnificent.."
Claudio Barbaro, Undersecretary of State for the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, expressed his delight at having equestrian events back in the city, as well as the support given by the Italian government ahead of other monumental sporting events in the years to come: "The Italian government has decided today that the 2024 Longines Global Champions Tour leg of Rome will be tested as an environmentally sustainable model for the Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024”
With the event open to the public for free, attendees can look forward to an exciting program suitable for all ages. With a diverse and exciting program, including top-tier sports and captivating performances, the event promises something for every member of the family.
With the crème de la crème of show jumpers competing, including all ten of the LGCT Championship contenders, fans are guaranteed a spectacle like no other.
The sporting action kicks off on September 15th and runs until September 17th, with all the action streamed live via GCTV.
My vision is clear. Only the best for the best.