Thursday, 07 December 2023
The highly-anticipated Longines League of Nations series proudly unveils the 10 equestrian nations set to compete in this brand-new international team jumping spectacle. This groundbreaking series, set to kick off in Abu Dhabi (UAE) in February 2024, reimagines the storied history of the FEI Jumping Nations Cup with a unique, unified, and global format.
The revamped series is set to make history, introducing a fresh approach to the age-old tradition of nation vs. nation competition, which dates back to 1909. The Longines League of Nations will see the top 10 teams from around the world competing at four qualifying events, culminating in the grand final, where the top eight teams will vie to become the first in history to hoist the Longines League of Nations trophy.
At the top of the Longines League of Nations Ranking is Ireland, a nation with extensive experience and success in the history of the Nations Cup. Following closely behind are the United States of America, France, Germany, Switzerland, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, and Brazil, each bringing their unique blend of talent, skill, and national pride, and setting the stage for an intense series.
The 10 confirmed teams, along with their ranking points which secured their participation in the series, and the Chefs d’equipe are:
1. Ireland (IRL) – 13834 pts. Chef d’equipe: Michael Blake
2. United States of America (USA) – 13532 pts. Chef d’equipe: Robert Ridland
3. France (FRA) – 12890 pts. Chef d’equipe: Henk Nooren
4. Germany (GER) – 12876 pts. Chef d’equipe: Otto Becker
5. Switzerland (SUI) – 12514 pts. Chef d’equipe: Peter Van Der Waaij
6. Great Britain (GBR) – 12045 pts. Chef d’equipe: Di Lampard
7. Netherlands (NED) – 11957 pts. Chef d’equipe: Jos Lansink
8. Belgium (BEL) – 11552 pts. Chef d’equipe: Peter Weinberg
9. Sweden (SWE) – 10237 pts. Chef d’equipe: Henrik Ankarcrona
10. Brazil (BRA) – 9289 pts. Chef d’equipe: Pedro Paulo Lacerda
The full rankings can be seen HERE.
British Chef d’equipe Di Lampard voiced optimism for the series, emphasising the crucial role the FEI Jumping Nations Cup has traditionally played in their championship preparations.
“The Nations Cup series has always played a valuable role in our preparations for championships and for producing potential partnerships, so I hope the Longines League of Nations will improve on the previous series. This new team competition format will provide fresh opportunities to develop our athletes – both human and equine – against some of the best jumping nations in the world and I look forward to seeing what they can bring to the table," she said.
“I’d like to thank all our owners, athletes, horses and grooms, along with my valued support team, who’s hard work has meant we’re in a position to accept the FEI’s invitation and contest the Longines League of Nations in 2024. Hopefully, we can continue this momentum and secure a place at the final in Barcelona.”
FEI President Ingmar De Vos said: “We are delighted to confirm that all the invited nations have accepted to take part in the inaugural series of the Longines League of Nations™. Being one of the ten is a remarkable achievement, and a testament to the athletes, owners, grooms, Chefs d’equipe, support teams, trainers, and National Federations working together. This is a team effort and is what the Longines League of Nations™ is all about, working together to achieve something greater than any individual performance. My congratulations go to all contributors.
“We anticipate a thrilling series and are collaborating with Organisers to provide the optimal platform for this showcase of team talent. I extend thanks to our esteemed Top Partner, Longines, for their support and commitment to this historic series, symbolising everything we hold dear in our equestrian community."
As we eagerly count down the 63 days to the inaugural Longines League of Nations series, the excitement and anticipation for this revolutionary chapter in equestrian history continues to build. With 10 powerhouse nations poised to showcase their equestrian prowess on the global stage, the series promises a unique and exhilarating blend of tradition and innovation.
11 February: Abu Dhabi (UAE)
23 March: Ocala, FL (USA)
31 May: St. Gallen (SUI)
21 June: Rotterdam (NED)
6 October: Barcelona (ESP) - Final
Check the Longines League of Nations Hub here.
Original copy: FEI Media House