The most iconic stop on the Longines Global Champions Tour returns with championship momentum, mid-season team drama, and elite horsepower in the heart of London.
The stakes are sky-high as the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) returns to the British capital for Stage 9 of the 2025 Championship, bringing a glittering line-up of global stars to the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea. Not only does this mark a major turning point in the individual title race – it also plays host to the first GCL stage following the pivotal mid-season transfer window, setting the scene for dramatic team reshuffles and new alliances.
With multiple former LGCT Grand Prix of London winners back in the spotlight, home heroes ready to shine, and fresh young talent breaking through, the battle for podium positions promises world-class action from start to finish.
Familiar Champions Return
History and ambition collide in the heart of London as a stellar lineup of past LGCT Grand Prix of London winners returns to the arena. British legends Scott Brash (GBR) – a three-time London victor and two-time LGCT Grand Prix winner already this season, brings Hello Chadora Lady – and Ben Maher (GBR) – a three-time LGCT Champion now campaigning the exciting Point Break – are both eyeing a triumphant return to the top step on home soil. Joining them is Harry Charles (GBR), the defending LGCT Grand Prix of London Winner, eager to electrify the home crowd once again.
Pieter Devos (BEL), who famously claimed the 2022 title with Toupie de La Roque, brings rising star Casual DV Z into the spotlight, while Gregory Wathelet (BEL), 2020 winner, and Peder Fredricson (SWE), 2021 winner, add even more firepower to a field stacked with champions in London.
Rising Stars & Home Heroes
The Whitaker name is set to shine once again. Jack Whitaker (GBR), one of Britain’s most exciting young guns, will be flying the flag with Valmy de la Lande, while his legendary uncle John Whitaker (GBR) makes a special appearance to celebrate his 70th birthday, riding Equine America Unick du Francport, the Whitaker contingency is also rounded out in the 5* competition by Robert Whitaker (GBR) who brings Vermento.
Spotlight on Rising Talent
London also plays host to a wave of exciting U25 riders looking to make their mark among the sport’s elite. Already turning heads on the international circuit, Max Wachman (IRL) returns with the experienced Kilkenny, while Yali Kass (ISR) continues his impressive rise aboard Luna van’t Ruytershof Z – both riders showcasing maturity well beyond their years. The home side is equally rich in young firepower. Lilly Attwood (GBR) brings forward Johnnie Walker, a combination known for their fearless rounds and growing consistency. Rob Murphy (GBR), another standout British prospect, competes with the scopey Balou de Revel, and Sienna Charles (GBR), a name to watch in any ring, partners with the elegant Stardust. With a strong cohort of next-gen talent stepping into the global spotlight, the London stage is the perfect proving ground for the future stars of show jumping.
World-Class Contenders
Fresh off his LGCT Grand Prix win in Paris, Gilles Thomas (BEL) brings Luna van het Dennehof are out to continue their winning form. Joining them are major names including Simon Delestre (FRA), the man who commanded victory in the recent €1.5 million LGCT Grand Prix of Monaco, and he brings ultra competitive Dexter Fontenis Z, Daniel Deusser aboard Killer Queen VDM, and Marcus Ehning (GER) riding Coolio 42.
Christian Kukuk (GER), who was on the London podium in 2024, narrowly in second place with Checker 47, is back with both Checker and Just Be Gentle, clearly chasing those championship points and golden ticket to the LGCT Super Grand Prix while Maximillian Weishaupt (GER), fourth in Monaco, arrives with the powerful Zuccero HV.
A New Chapter Begins: GCL Mid-Season Transfers Take Centre Stage
The London leg marks the debut of several key mid-season transfer arrivals, adding extra intrigue and strategic firepower to the GCL competition. Among the biggest names to make a move is Peder Fredricson (SWE), a previous LGCT Grand Prix of London winner in 2021, now armed with Colonello. Joining him is fellow Swede Petronella Andersson (SWE), who brings forward Olympke van ’t Merelsnest.
Watch out for powerful combinations like Kim Emmen and Imagine N.O.P., Malin Baryard-Johnsson with H&M Indiana, Katharina Rhomberg brings both Colestus Cambridge and Cuma 5. This serious female firepower is set to be be integral to 2025 strategies.
Also lining up in London are a host of world-class combinations sure to make an impact. Zascha Nygaard Lill (DEN) returns with Charino PS, while Andreas Schou (DEN) brings forward the elegant Darc de Lux – both riders having stood atop the GCL podium in 2024 and knowing what it takes to win on these hallowed grounds. Always a threat in any jump-off, Katrin Eckermann (GER) is set to thrill aboard the fast and fiery Chao Lee, and German legend Marcus Ehning (GER) partners with the consistent Coolio 42. Names that need no introduction, Henrik von Eckermann (SWE) joins the lineup with two top horses – Calizi and Iliana – adding even more firepower to an already world-class field.
Don’t Miss It
With a blend of seasoned champions, emerging stars, and newly formed teams, the Longines Global Champions Tour of London is set to be a defining moment in the 2025 season. Be there to witness the action live from Royal Hospital Chelsea as history is made once again.
8–10 August 2025
Royal Hospital Chelsea, London
Source: Press Release (edited) from Longines Global Champion Tour
Photos: © LGCT / Stefano Grasso
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Categories: English, Jumper News Great Britain, Preview
