Official launch of stunning new Rome stage of Longines Global Champions Tour
The unique new stage in Rome for the Longines Global Champions Tour was officially launched yesterday and hailed as a “dynamic” milestone for the “Eternal City”. The spectacular venue at the Stadio dei Marmi will see the world’s top horses and riders in action for the 13th leg of the championship series from 11th – 13th September 2015.
Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome Launch. Photo Source: Longines Global Champions Tour Press Office
Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world and has a sporting heritage dating back to the Roman Empire. The Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome will be staged at the impressive Stadio dei Marmi, which is ringed by 59 classical statues depicting different sports. Originally designed in the 1920’s, the stadium is one of the arenas in the Foro Italico sports area, and home to the Italian Olympic Committee.
Speaking at a packed press conference to launch the new event at the impressive headquarters of the Italian National Olympic Committee, the Committee’s President Giovanni Malago said: “Rome is known as the Eternal City but we would also like Rome to be the city of dynamism and courage and ready to host special events like this beautiful sport and to involve the people.”
Longines Global Champions Tour Founder and President Jan Tops joined the panel at the press conference and said: “We can build something very unique here and we thank everyone who has given us the opportunity to be here in Rome. Italy is a great horse nation and if you want to be in Italy, where better than Rome. Rome is a beautiful, historic and vibrant place that everyone recognises.
“We are privileged to be staging the 13th leg of our 2015 championship circuit at this historic venue. Our sport should be democratic and accessible and I am pleased to announce that tickets for the event will be free to the public.”
Paolo Masini, the Sports Minister of the City of Rome, further commented: “We would like to thank Jan Tops for the opportunity given to Rome in hosting such an important event. I’m sure that Rome will show all its passion and ability to work together with the Longines Global Champions Tour for the success of the event.”
The importance for Rome of hosting the Longines Global Champions Tour and being part of the circuit’s prestigious international calendar was highlighted repeatedly during the press launch. Beautiful, inspirational Rome has been attracting visitors for over two millennia and continues to be one of the most exhilarating destinations in the world. One of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe, Rome’s historic heart contains iconic monuments and artistic masterpieces from the magnificent Colosseum and the Pantheon to the Sistine Chapel and the ruins of the Roman Forum. Visitors can take in Renaissance palazzos and Baroque fountains or simply stroll through beautiful piazzas and soak up the vibrancy of the city of La Dolce Vita.
The best riders in the world, including top Italian riders, will be competing in front of a passionate local and international crowd as the contention for the series championship reaches a crucial stage with competitors locked in a gladiatorial battle for the honours.
Press Release by the Longines Global Champions Tour Press Office