Rabat Prepares for a Spectacular Equestrian Event
The capital of Morocco, Rabat, is gearing up to host the finals of the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) and the Global Champions League from October 30 to November 1, 2026. This particular edition holds significant importance, as it marks the 20th anniversary of the tour, which was established in 2006 by former Olympic champion Jan Tops. The LGCT was born out of a vision to elevate show jumping to an international level, bringing together the world's top riders and horses while showcasing the sport in some of the most iconic locations globally, as stated by the organizers in a recent announcement.
Having made history in 2024 by becoming the first African city to host the LGCT and confirming its place on the international calendar in 2025, Rabat is now preparing for its third consecutive year of this prestigious circuit. As in previous editions, the competition will take place within a specially designed equestrian village, situated on a 5.5-hectare site in the heart of Rabat, nestled between the Hassan Tower, the Royal Theater of Rabat, and the Mohammed VI Tower. This remarkable setting not only meets the stringent requirements of a high-level equestrian competition but also highlights the architectural and urban heritage of the capital.
In addition to the competitions, the three-day event will feature a cultural program aimed at exposing the public to various expressions of heritage and artistic creation. This will include a thematic village, musical and artistic performances, as well as national and international equestrian shows to complement the sporting agenda, according to the same source.
The Global Champions League finale, scheduled for Friday, October 30, will crown the season's champion team, while the Longines Global Champions Tour finale on Sunday, November 1, will determine the individual champion for 2026. The return of the LGCT to Rabat for a third consecutive year also underscores Morocco's capability to host major international sporting events and meet the organizational demands of high-level equestrian competitions.
This momentum is part of a deeply rooted equestrian tradition in Morocco's history and heritage. From Tbourida to various expressions of equestrian arts, alongside the breeding and promotion of national horse breeds, the horse holds a unique place in the Kingdom's culture. Moreover, Morocco hosts numerous top-tier international equestrian events annually, including the El Jadida Horse Show, the Horse Week at Dar Es-Salam, and the Morocco Royal Tour. The commitment of national institutions and stakeholders, supported by the Royal Moroccan Federation of Equestrian Sports (FRMSE), has contributed to establishing a recognized expertise in organizing competitions that meet international standards.
As reported by mapsport.ma.
