Top-level international participation at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Madrid
12 May 2026Just one week before the start of the event, which will take place from May 15 to 17 at the Real Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, some of the biggest names competing in the CSI 5* category during the weekend on Madrid’s spectacular grass arena are already known.
Among the participants are world-class figures such as Dutch rider Maikel van der Vleuten, a three-time Olympic medalist, and French rider Simon Delestre, also an Olympic medalist and recently in the spotlight after finishing on the podium in the Grand Prix of the second stage of the LGCT in Mexico.
The international lineup continues with major references in show jumping such as Austrian rider Max Kühner, Australian rider Edwina Tops-Alexander, winner of the Madrid GP in 2023, and the Belgians Olivier Philippaerts, Gilles Thomas, and Abdel Said. Abdel Said, in particular, arrives in Madrid after winning the Super Grand Prix in Prague 2025, so he will be aiming in the Spanish capital for a new ticket to the final and the chance to defend his victory. Irish riders Bertram Allen and Michael Pender will also be present.
Spain will also have a strong representation in the CSI 5* category, with three riders competing as part of GCL teams. Eduardo Álvarez Aznar and Sergio Álvarez Moya will be part of the home team Madrid In Motion, while Mariano Martínez Bastida will compete with the Monaco Aces team. All three will take part in the GCL team competitions on Friday, corresponding to the first and second rounds of the Marqués de Riscal Trophy.
The Spanish presence in the CSI 5* category will be completed by riders such as Julio Arias, Carlos López-Fanjul, Alberto Márquez Galobardes, Iván Serrano, Álvaro González de Zárate, and Jesús Garmendia.
More than a competition
Coinciding with the San Isidro public holiday, the Longines Global Champions Tour of Madrid is established as the perfect plan to enjoy the day in the capital. Beyond the sporting spectacle, the event offers a complete open-air experience combining sport, leisure, and entertainment for all audiences.
Each year, more than 20,000 people enjoy a unique atmosphere that makes the event one of the major highlights of Madrid’s spring season. A commercial village with fashion brands, accessories, and specialized companies, along with dynamic sponsor spaces, will offer multiple entertainment options throughout the weekend.
The food offering, with a large food truck area, live music, and children’s activities, completes an experience designed for all audiences. The youngest visitors will also have their own space in the traditional Pony Park, where they can experience their first time as riders in a safe and fun environment.
Tickets are already available from €17 at tickets.oxersport.com and can also be purchased at the box office during the event.
Those who cannot attend in person to enjoy the best international competition will be able to follow all the action through the official channels: CSI 1* on ClipMyHorse.TV and CSI 5* on GCTV.