Off the Clock with Nayel Nassar

Returning to the Longines Global Champions Tour in its milestone 20th anniversary season, Nayel Nassar steps back onto the circuit with the kind of quiet assurance that only experience can bring. A previous podium finisher - including standout results in 2019 - he knows exactly what it takes to deliver at this level.

Speaking with GCTV, Nassar reflects on a journey that began far from the world’s biggest arenas. Growing up in Kuwait, his introduction to the sport was simple - riding school lessons once or twice a week - before it steadily became something more.

“I started riding at quite a young age in Kuwait… like how everyone started taking lessons once or twice a week and caught the bug,” he says. “Here I am 25 years later… and still loving it.”

Now firmly established among the sport’s elite, his return to the tour in 2026 feels like a natural continuation.

Few venues capture the essence of the circuit quite like Longines Global Champions Tour of Miami Beach - and for Nassar, it remains one of the most distinctive stops on the calendar. He describes the setting as both inspiring and demanding, where atmosphere and intensity collide.

“Miami Beach is such a special show… jumping right on the ocean… it’s a great environment, great atmosphere,” he explains.

But beneath the spectacle lies a technical test. The compact arena, tight warm-up, and constant movement around the ring create a unique pressure - one that can feel closer to an indoor competition than an open-air event.

It’s a venue that rewards precision in preparation, sharp strategy, and truly honed skill in the saddle - something Nassar demonstrated with 12-year-old mare Orphea HQ, owned by his family’s Evergate Stables LLC.

That balance played into his approach this year. Returning with a relatively new partner, the focus was on building confidence and giving her a positive experience at this level. The plan was measured, but the result exceeded expectations.

“I decided to do a very nice and neat round… try to give her a good experience for the Grand Prix,” he says. “I didn’t have to go crazy fast to win… and those unexpected wins are always special.”

Looking ahead, Nassar remains grounded but optimistic. With their first five-star Grand Prix together on the horizon, preparation has centred on keeping the mare comfortable, confident, and ready for the step up.

“It’s going to be a big test… but the way she jumped, I’m feeling pretty confident,” he says. “If we get to the jump-off, it’s a level playing field.”

It’s a mindset shaped by years of competing at the highest level of the sport. On the Longines Global Champions Tour, margins are tight and nothing comes easily - something Nassar understands better than most.

“I think being on the podium in any LGCT Grand Prix is special,” he reflects. “It’s a very tough circuit… you have the best riders here. The level is really high, the course designing is very intricate. It’s never easy.”

And perhaps that’s what makes moments here matter more.

With family close by and Wellington just down the road, Miami Beach carries a sense of familiarity - almost a home show. But on this stage, under the pressure of the world’s best, Nassar’s focus remains unchanged.

Measured. Competitive. And firmly back where he belongs.