Unveiling the 2025 Longines League of Nations: A Global Equestrian Extravaganza

The 2025 Longines League of Nations promises to be an exciting spectacle for equestrian fans globally. Slated to begin on February 15, 2025, at the Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Abu Dhabi, this event is poised to captivate audiences with its high-octane action. Following a successful inaugural series in 2024, this year's edition will feature the world's top ten jumping nations competing across various locations worldwide.

Star-Studded Lineup

Participating teams include formidable equestrian nations such as Ireland, France, USA, Great Britain, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy. As defending champions, Germany holds a guaranteed spot, underscoring their prowess. Adding a local flair, the United Arab Emirates will also join the fray. - **Ireland's** team consists of budding stars Trevor Breen and Jason Foley, complemented by veterans Denis Lynch and Michael Pender. - **France** fields an impressive lineup with Kevin Staut, Simon Delestre, Jeanne Sadran, and Alexa Ferrer. - The **USA** brings an all-female ensemble featuring Lucy Davis Kennedy, Kaitlin Campbell, Taylor Kain, and Skylar Wireman, under the guidance of Chef d'Equipe Robert Ridland. - **Germany** will defend their title with Katrin Eckermann, Sophie Hinners, Jörne Sprehe, and Maximilian Weishaupt. - **Great Britain** showcases Tim Gredley, Joseph Stockdale, Donald Whitaker, and Robert Murphy. - **Belgium** relies on Rik Hemeryck, Thibeau Spits, Jos Verlooy, and Wilm Vermeir. - **Switzerland** features talents like Bryan Balsiger, Romain Duguet, Janika Sprunger, and Edouard Schmitz. - Under new leadership, the **Netherlands** presents Kevin Jochems, Tani Joosten, Leopold van Asten, and Jur Vrieling. - **Sweden**, the reigning World and European Champions, entrusts Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, Angelie von Essen, Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli, and Petronella Andersson. - **Italy** debuts with Piergiorgio Bucci, Emanuele Camilli, Giacomo Casadei, and Giulia Martinengo Marquet. - Completing the roster, the **United Arab Emirates** is represented by Abdullah Mohd Al Marri, Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi, Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi, and Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi.

A Dynamic Competition Format

The Longines League of Nations is not just about the magnificent teams but also a thrilling competition structure. The series comprises four qualifying events, with each boasting a prize pool of €700,000. The journey begins in Abu Dhabi, traverses through Ocala (USA) in March, proceeds to Rotterdam (Netherlands) in June, then St-Tropez Gassin (France) in September, before concluding with the grand finale in Barcelona (Spain) in October. The Barcelona finale alone offers a whopping €1,600,000 prize, drawing elite participants worldwide. Unlike traditional Nations Cups where discard scores are involved, this series intensifies the competition by eliminating them in the second round. This feature requires each rider to stay on top of their game, as perfection is key to securing victory. And, should there be a tie for the top spot, a suspense-filled jump-off will decide the winner.

Beyond the Jumps: Uniting a Global Audience

The Longines League of Nations does more than challenge riders and horses; it showcases equestrian sports' global appeal and significance. By featuring an all-female team from the USA and Italy's inaugural participation, the event emphasizes the inclusive nature of these competitions, hinting at a shift towards gender parity in sports. Furthermore, with Longines as a major sponsor, the spotlight on equestrian sports grows brighter, as such partnerships are vital for developing and publicizing the sport.

Economic Impact on Host Cities

Beyond the thrill and competition, this series leaves an indelible mark on the hosting cities' economies and tourism. Locations like Abu Dhabi and Barcelona are poised to benefit economically from the influx of teams, support staff, and fans. Such events can be the proverbial shot in the arm to the local economy, boosting everything from hospitality to local attractions, offering perhaps a less view but significant benefit of these spectacular equestrian events.

A Season to Anticipate

The anticipation around the Longines League of Nations only continues to build as February nears. It presents the perfect amalgamation of fierce competition, skilled sportsmanship, and cultural exchange. Whether you are a dyed-in-the-wool equine enthusiast or someone casually interested in high-stakes international sports, this event beckons with the promise of an exhilarating ride. As we count down to the saddle clash on February 15, one can only imagine the stories and triumphs that another League of Nations series will cement into equestrian lore. For more insights, see the article on [worldofshowjumping.com](https://www.worldofshowjumping.com/Nations-Cup-events/The-horses-riders-and-teams-for-the-2025-Longines-League-of-Nations-in-Abu-Dhabi.html).