It is as much a horse festival for the general public as it is a competition for top riders and their riders. If there is no consensus on the Longines Global Champions Tour, as Steve Guerdat does not endorse this parallel circuit, the event provides an exceptional view of the riding. With the Eiffel Tower in the background and the Champ de Mars as a stadium, Longines Paris Eiffel Jumping offers a unique three-day (Friday-Sunday) show.
“There is a festival spirit in the midst of the competition. This sport deserves more insight, horses bring so many things to humans. It holds exceptional values. I love diversity, openness and mingling. Often times people don’t dare enter, it’s free and accessible, Virginie Cooperi Eiffel, president and founder of the event explains. I try to be Equestrian Roland Garros, a place where everyone can find something that interests them without necessarily being a fan of showjumping. »
Prepare a postcard to see more
As always, some riding enthusiasts like Greek Athena Onassis, actresses Marina Hands or Mary-Kate Olsen will be in attendance during the CSI 1 star, but the real sporting scene will take place on Saturday with a 5-star competition (streamed live on L’Équipe’s website) where Frenchman Kevin Stout, who is back in the world’s top ten list, and Pénélope Leprévost are eagerly awaited.
Big names like Christian Ahlmann, Ben Maher, Olympic champion, legend John Whitaker (66) or Olympic team bronze medalist and ‘Chief’s’ daughter Jessica Springsteen will be scrutinized. A month and a half before the World Riding Championships in Denmark, each competition allows you to test yourself and the Parisian environment offers a postcard to see more.