June 29 - July 1, 2023
Prepare for an equestrian spectacle like no other as the Monte-Carlo International Jumping, the ninth leg of the illustrious Longines Global Champions Tour, gallops into action at Port Hercule. This three-day extravaganza promises to be a grand affair, featuring the world's top riders and their magnificent steeds. The crescendo of sporting excellence will culminate in the highly anticipated Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco at a thrilling 1.60 meters on Saturday.
Maikel van der Vleuten, currently leading the 2023 Longines Global Champions Tour rankings after 8 stages ©LGCT
The Monte-Carlo International Jumping has been a privileged fixture on the Longines Global Champions Tour since its inception in 2006, even when there were just six stages. Once again, it assembles a star-studded lineup for its 2023 edition. Set against the iconic backdrop of Port Hercule, renowned for its challenging course with closely spaced obstacles, this event offers spectators the chance to witness top-tier equestrian performances. Headlining the roster of 51 riders are three of the world's top four, with the world number one being Sweden's Henrik von Eckermann.
A dominant figure in the equestrian world, von Eckermann boasts Olympic and World Champion titles in both team and individual events, and he recently secured victory in the Longines Global Champions Tour stage in Stockholm on June 18. It's undeniable that the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco (scheduled for Saturday, July 1, at 8:15 PM) is high on his list of targets. Sweden can also pin its hopes on Peder Fredricson, a former world number one and a champion in both team and Olympic events. To emerge victorious, they must outshine their formidable competitors.
Austrian rider Max Kühner (currently ranked 15th), who clinched victory last year with his Selle Français EIC Coriolis des Isles in a thrilling two-horse jump-off against Irishman Darragh Kenny (the previous year's winner), will be back to defend his title.
The event will also see several former champions in action. Among them is Irishman Shane Breen, crowned in 2018 and in top form with a second-place finish in Stockholm. Dutch rider Maikel van der Vleuten, presently ranked fourth globally and the 2019 Monaco champion, will be looking to maintain his lead in the Longines Global Champions Tour rankings. Italy's Emanuele Gaudiano (ranked 25th) secured victory in 2016, while Brazil's Bernardo Alves claimed the title in 2010. Australian rider Edwina Tops-Alexander, a stalwart of the Longines Global Champions Tour circuit and a recent winner in Madrid, is also determined to add the Monaco leg to her illustrious list of victories.
Three French riders aim to follow in the footsteps of Kevin Staut, the sole Frenchman to triumph in Monaco in 2012 with Rêveur de Hurtebise HDC. Leading the French charge is Julien Épaillard, who has been the world number two since April. He has displayed exceptional form in recent weeks, securing victory with Donatello d'Auge in the Longines Global Champions Tour stage in Saint-Tropez. Épaillard will be competing in Monaco alongside his celebrated equine partner. He shares his excitement, "This is a unique competition.
The Formula 1 circuit is unique, and so is this competition's track. It's a place I really enjoy. It's somewhat reminiscent of indoor events, requiring quick reactions and instincts to nail the distances. It's very technically challenging. This year, the prize money is exceptional. That means fierce competition, with the best couple in the world leading the charge. I'm really delighted to come to Monaco, and I'll certainly do my best." Philippe Rozier, Olympic team champion in Rio in 2016 and coach of young Monégasque riders for several years, aims to shine on the Port Hercule track. Keep an eye out for the young Jeanne Sadran, who, at 21 years old, represents the future of French equestrianism.
Other riders to watch closely include Germany's Christian Kukuk and Christian Ahlmann, who triumphed in the Parisian stage of the Longines Global Champions Tour last weekend, Belgium's strong contingent featuring Jérôme Guéry, Pieter Devos, and Niels Bruynseels, the Netherlands, represented by Maikel and Eric van der Vleuten, and the world number eight, Harrie Smolders, Brazil, with Marlon Modolo Zanotelli, ranked 10th globally, Ireland, with Denis Lynch and Bertram Allen, and Denmark, with Andreas Schou. All equestrian enthusiasts will also be captivated by Britain's John Whitaker, who, despite nearing his 68th birthday, remains in the top 100 globally and is ranked fifth in his country—a true legend of the sport.
Most of these riders will also participate in the two GCL events, team competitions without nationality, scheduled for Friday, June 30 (4:30 PM and 8:00 PM). Another highlight of the competition is the Longines Pro-Am Cup Monaco (Thursday, June 29, at 9:15 PM), an event conceived in 2010 and sponsored by Ms. Charlotte Casiraghi. This unique event features a seasoned amateur rider paired with an international equestrian star, and it is organized in support of AMADE (World Association of Children's Friends), an association presided over by HSH The Princess of Hanover, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
Each day of the event will commence with CSI 2* events and the National competition, affording numerous Monégasque riders the unique opportunity to share the same arena as their equestrian idols.