It's Back! Longines Global Champions Tour of Shanghai Declared Open
The Longines Global Champions Tour celebrates the tour’s return to Shanghai, China this week from 3 - 5 May for the fourth leg of the esteemed 2024 circuit. The world's top international talent will converge on the vibrant city as the Longines Global Champions Tour marks its highly anticipated return to China.
Today’s opening press conference officially declared the start of the competition at the newly built Shanghai Juss International Equestrian Centre, which will see three days of elite show jumping competition in the brand new purpose-built stadium. Brand Manager of Longines China, Jack Xie, celebrated the return of the Longines Global Champions Tour to Shanghai stating,
“The Longines Global Champions Tour is definitely the most spectacular and influential equestrian event in China.”
Wang Shuwei Duty General Manager of Shanghai Juss Sports Development Group said: “With the launch of the Shanghai Juss International Equestrian Centre, Shanghai becomes the only city in Chinese mainland to host a top international equestrian event in a permanent world class facility. 2024 marks 10 years since the first ever Longines Global Champions Tour held in China and since the launch we have seen a huge rise in equestrian clubs in China, the rise of competitive level of riders and we have seen an increasing enthusiasm of fans here in China.
Over the years the sport has developed rapidly in China and we have seen young riders from China shine at international events. Shanghai is trying to put itself into the world's top international sports city, a few weeks ago the Formula One of Shanghai was a huge success and we believe this success will continue through to this weekend with the show jumping.”
This state of the art venue is China’s first permanent professional equestrian venue. Situated in the heart of the city, the Shanghai Juss International Equestrian Centre will take center stage as it plays host to the Longines Global Champions Tour of Shanghai.
Located in Shanghai’s EXPO Cultural Park, this incredibly impressive venue boasts features such as a live broadcasting centre and horse clinic, as well as permanent stables, the International Horse Art Centre, and International Equestrian Academy. The venue also is home to the International Jockey Club which features a restaurant, beauty centre, and library.
President and Founder of the Longines Global Champions Tour, Jan Tops, expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government in their support of this event, as well as the tour’s partners and fans, emphasising how impressive this venue truly is.
“It has been five years since we have been here, and things have changed a lot. Everybody who is coming here, from riders to fans around the world, are really impressed with the facility you have built. It's just world class here. I've been to many places around the world, and you rarely see something in such detail. We are very grateful to the government who have been a big supporter of us from the beginning and I want to thank Longines for all their many years of partnership.”
Internationally acclaimed riders are converging in Shanghai, ready to take on the competition at this world class venue. Excitement is high as the stage is set for a thrilling display of athleticism and entertainment, promising to captivate the crowds in Shanghai.
Ireland’s Michael Duffy, winner of the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Miami Beach, remarked on the world class facilities here at the Shanghai Juss International Equestrian Centre.
"The facilities for the horses are, I think, without a doubt the best I've ever seen.” He went on to say how much he is looking forward to the coming days of competition, saying, “I’m excited to get going. It's a fantastic stadium. I can imagine the crowd and the atmosphere will be electric over the next few days. It is a credit with the amount of 5* shows we have at the moment how many riders are here with their best horses so it shows how important this week is."
With the fourth golden ticket for the coveted Longines Global Champions Tour Super Grand Prix up for grabs, the competition in Shanghai is sure to be fierce. The 16 stages on the 2024 tour pose a formidable challenge, spanning three continents, and taking riders to some of the most iconic destinations in the world.
Fans worldwide can catch all the action from Shanghai via GCTV, offering live streaming and expert analysis, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.
The 2024 season of the Longines Global Champions Tour promises unparalleled excitement, showcasing the world's finest showjumping talent.
My vision is clear. Only the best for the best.