Return to news index
The Glitz and Glamour are Back: Longines Global Champions Tour of Cannes Unveils Stellar A-List Roster
Intense competition is expected as Longines Global Champions Tour Returns to Cannes this week for the 40th anniversary of Jumping-Cannes.
The race for the coveted 2023 Longines Global Champions Tour title is about to reach new heights as the championship makes its way along the beautiful French Riviera to the city of Cannes. With three of the top five riders in the LGCT ranking set to compete, anticipation is at an all-time high for this year's event.
Following a glamorous kick-off in Ramatuelle, Saint Tropez last week, the Tour has cruised to the iconic destination of Cannes. With an A-list line-up of show jumping stars ready to showcase their skills, spectators can expect an adrenaline-pumping weekend of world-class sport as these top riders battle for crucial points in their quest for the LGCT title.
Leading the championship race Maikel van der Vluenten will be determined to extend his lead from the pack as Belgium's Abdel Siad won’t be present this week but back fighting for the Championship in Stockholm next week. In search of his first LGCT Grand Prix win this season Christian Kukuk, currently in third place, aims to finally get to the top spot of the podium in LGCT Grand Prix of Cannes and secure a golden ticket to the prestigious LGCT Super Grand Prix in Prague.
On flying form this season, two-time LGCT Champion, Edwina Tops-Alexander, is closing in on the top spot after her win in the LGCT Grand Prix of Madrid and double clear last week in St Tropez. Currently 6th in the 2023 rankings will she be able to match Ben Maher and claim her third Championship victory this year? This week her performance in Cannes will be crucial to her place in the overall standings.
The world's best show jumpers will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory in Cannes. Esteemed names such as Daniel Deusser, Katrin Eckermann, Jur Vrieling, Harrie Smolders, John Whitaker, Niels Bruynseels, Pieter Devos, Denis Lynch, Spencer Smith, and Malin Baryard-Johnsson are all eager to shine in the spotlight.
French riders will proudly represent their home nation, with renowned names including Philippe Rozier, Julien Anqueti, Philippe Léoni, and Alexa Ferrer. While the U25 talent is back out in full force this week as the likes of two-time LGCT Grand Prix winner last year Mikey Pender, Gilles Thomas, second in the LGCT Grand Prix of Paris last year, Lily Attwood, Isabella Russekoff, Sara Vingralkova, and Natalie Dean.
Known as the City of Stars and located just a stone's throw away from the world-famous La Croisette, the LGCT of Cannes event is a magnificent blend of glamour and top-class sport. Against the backdrop of glittering evening lights and the picturesque Mediterranean Port of Cannes adorned with luxurious super-yachts, this French Riviera horse show is a truly exceptional experience. Originally known as the "International Show Jumping of Cannes," the event has grown exponentially since joining the Tour, attracting more than 15,000 visitors each summer.
Visitors are drawn to the unparalleled level of equestrian sport on display and the presence of international show jumping icons. In addition to witnessing thrilling competitions, they also indulge in the unique ambiance, glamour, and vibrant nightlife of this renowned city, home to the illustrious Cannes Film Festival. Don't miss out on this spectacular event and find out which rider will steal the spotlight and join the esteemed list of past winners. Tune in live on GCTV this Thursday - Saturday.
