„Strength lies within the heart but the strength to trust lies between the horse and his rider.“; Longines Global Champions Tour
Sometimes it feels like slipping into another life. For a few hours, not just „everyday life in Vienna,“ but a world full of glamour, horse power, and social excitement. That’s exactly what the Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna 2025 was like—or, as I like to call it, the Ascot of Vienna.
This weekend, Vienna hosted the premier class of show jumping. And not just anywhere—but in the Courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace. For the very first time, this imperial setting was used for an equestrian event. Honestly, it couldn’t have been more beautiful. The baroque facades, tinged golden in the autumn sun, seemed like a stage just waiting for this moment. As soon as I entered the grounds of Longines Global Champions Tour, I had this feeling: Here you’re experiencing something you won’t find again anytime soon.
The event:
When Schönbrunn Palace becomes a stage
The Longines Global Champions Tour is far from being just a sporting highlight; it’s also an international stage for equestrian art and lifestyle. Stars from all over the world travel here, bringing their magnificent horses with them, and transforming Vienna into a center of equestrian sport.
This year, the venue couldn’t have been more beautiful: Schönbrunn Palace.
You could practically breathe the history of the place. Where carriages once rolled and imperial festivals were celebrated, noble horses now galloped across the arena. There was something timeless about it—almost as if it had always been intended for this very spectacle. Especially in the evening, when the light grew softer and the shadows longer, the setting seemed even more magical.
I spoke briefly with a member of staff who told me they had over six months of preparation time. And she was visibly proud that everything went so smoothly. Understandable—the result was simply breathtaking. And it was clear to me: with this setting, Vienna has finally secured its place in international equestrian sport. Thanks to Longines Global Champions Tour.
While it rained all day on Friday, we had bright sunshine on Saturday. Yes, it was chilly for autumn, but it was wonderful to sit outside without freezing. Typical Viennese: weather drama deluxe. But this time, it showed its best side.
The sun reflected off the sand of the course, making the jumps seem almost more impressive. You could tell how relieved the organizers were that the skies held up. Because let’s face it: At an event like this, the weather is almost half the battle.
My outfit
– society ready
Of course, such an event is not only a sporting highlight, but also a fashion highlight. My look for the Longines Global Champions Tour: a short white skirt with a matching blazer, interspersed with dark blue pinstripes – elegant but not stiff. I actually wanted to wear boots, but since the sun was shining, I opted for my waterproof ballet flats. Practical, chic, and quite honestly: a must-have if you don’t want to constantly sink your shoe soles into wet gravel.
I wore a black headband with it – it matched the outfit and provided a little contrast that rounded everything off. I know hats are traditionally worn at Ascot, but let’s be honest: Austria just isn’t quite there yet. Maybe that will come.
Until then, my headband will remain my personal interpretation of the Ascot feeling. And let me tell you, I received so many compliments on the look that I knew I’d made the right choice. The best thing about outfits like this is that they’re not only elegant but also comfortable. I could walk around in them all day without feeling like I was wearing a costume – and that’s exactly what makes a perfect event outfit.
Fashion at the Ascot of Vienna
– from top to flop
What immediately struck me at the Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna was the range of outfits. On the one hand, there were people who truly demonstrated taste—elegant looks, coordinated colors, perfect for an event of this caliber. On the other hand… well, people who clearly thought they were on a Sunday stroll in the Prater.
And don’t get me wrong: I’m not fashion police. But sometimes I wish I were. Maybe in the next life? Who knows. The fact is: this event deserves to be dressed up. After all, how often do you sit in front of Schönbrunn Palace and watch the world’s best equestrians? I think it’s part of respect for the event of Longines Global Champions Tour and the atmosphere to put in a little effort. An elegant dress, a blazer, a nice pair of shoes – that’s often enough. I saw both that day: outfits I would wear myself in a heartbeat, and looks that made me wonder, „Really, you chose that?“
Terrain and structure
– U-shape, VIP and Village
The Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna venue was cleverly designed: U-shaped, with a large, fully covered VIP tent in the center, featuring sophisticated catering. Grandstands to the left and right of it offered a perfect view of the course.
From the center, paths led to the stands, lined with numerous stalls. You could eat, drink (all very expensive—but that’s the way it is at such events), and, of course, stock up on horse accessories and equestrian items. I particularly loved the hobby horsing corner for children, where the little ones could jump over mini obstacles on hobby horses. There was also a kids‘ corner with ponies, craft activities, and even face painting. This mix made the event special for families. I was fascinated by how well-organized everything was—from the posh areas for VIP guests of the Longines Global Champions Tour to the activities for the youngest visitors. There was a place for everyone.
Personal meaning
– back to my roots
This Saturday had a very special meaning for me. My husband gave me the tickets because he knows I used to be a competitive rider myself. The moment I first entered the grounds, I got goosebumps. I felt like I was back in my youth, in that time when my heart was in show jumping.
And that’s exactly what happened here again: My heart was filled with joy. I would have loved to ride myself, to take on the challenge of the course, to feel the adrenaline. My secret dream is to rediscover this passion one day. And this weekend, it felt more tangible than ever. I smelled the leather and the horse, heard the snorting, saw the riders‘ concentration – and this feeling grew within me: This is a part of me that has never disappeared. The Longines Global Champions Tour showed me that it’s never too late to revive dreams.
Backstage dream and disappointment
Now comes a point where I have to be honest – as always on vanivanity. I had contacted the Longines Global Champions Tour in advance and was informed that I would be allowed to take part in a backstage tour on Saturday. I would even be allowed to see the stables. You can imagine how happy this news made me. I was truly grinning like a Cheshire cat – in German: smiling like a honey cake horse – an Austrian saying that fits perfectly here.
But then came the disappointment: I waited at the agreed location for over an hour, spoke to three different people on the phone, and they all promised me, „Someone will be here in 10 minutes.“ But no one came. I stood there, watching every single person, hoping someone would come up to me at any moment. But nothing. No tour, no apology. I felt like I’d been booked in and not picked up – in the truest sense of the word. And that hurt, especially because this event had such personal significance for me. On top of that, we missed an entire show because of all the waiting.
My conclusion: Even though the event seemed perfectly organized, there’s obviously still room for improvement behind the scenes. To be honest, I was really disappointed.
Sporting highlights
– pure adrenaline
Despite everything, we saw two shows. One of them was the 5-star jumping competition. And that was simply incredible.
The tension was palpable; the audience was on the edge of their seats during every single ride. It was so intense that the commentator had to calm the crowd down several times because it was getting too loud. Every jump, every turn, every fall: the emotions were immediately palpable. This is what equestrian sport feels like when it’s at the highest level. And that’s precisely why I love it. You feel this interplay of power and elegance, of risk and control.
The Austrian riders, in particular, received extra support from the spectators, which made the atmosphere even more electrifying. For me, it was the sporting highlight of the day—proof that the Longines Global Champions Tour more than deserves its title as the premier class.
Austrian riders in the spotlight
Another goosebump-inducing moment: Many Austrian riders competed – and some even achieved victories. I’ll add the names and placings later, but just the feeling of seeing Austrian athletes in this international arena was fantastic.
I was particularly impressed by how warmly the audience reacted whenever an Austrian name was called. You could immediately sense the incredible sense of solidarity. I saw people in the stands waving flags, small children clapping enthusiastically, and the proud faces of families cheering on their loved ones. These emotions are precisely what make equestrian sport so special. And for Austria, it was more than just a sporting success—it was a statement: We belong in this league. The Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna has made the country visible as an equestrian nation.
my summary
– luxury, emotion and a small drop of bitterness
The Longines Global Champions Tour Vienna 2025 was a day full of emotions for me. Breathtaking scenery, perfect sport, fashion statements, personal memories – a true Ascot of Vienna.
At the same time, there remains one small disappointment: the canceled backstage tour. But perhaps that’s also the reason why I’m already looking forward to next year. Because yes: The Longines Global Champions Tour is coming back – from September 25 to 27, 2026. And I’m certain: Vienna will shine once again when horses and riders compete in front of Schönbrunn Palace.
Despite the disappointment of missing the backstage tour, I’m going home with a full heart. This event showed me how much equestrian sport has shaped me and how much joy it still brings me. Perhaps one day I’ll be back in the saddle myself – until then, I’m enjoying being part of this Ascot of Vienna. For me, it remains a weekend full of memories that I will never forget.
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