For the second year, Madrid will host a prestigious stage of the Longines Global Champions Tour. The world’s best riders will arrive at the Club de Camp Villa de Madrid this week to contest the second round of the fiercely competitive official FEI series. Last weekend saw double Olympic Gold medallist McLain Ward (USA) and Rothchild take the opening round in spectacular style in front of a sell-out crowd in Antwerp. Which 5* rider from the star-studded line-up travelling to Madrid can challenge the American’s impressive season start? Last year’s Grand Prix victor Michael Whitaker (GBR) is bringing his top mount and winning partner from 2013, Viking, to try to defend his title. But with hot competition from the likes of Michael’s 2012 Gold medal-winning compatriots Scott Brash and Ben Maher, not to mention his legendary brother John, his task will be a tough one. Reigning European Champion Roger-Yves Bost (FRA), living-legends Ludger Beerbaum (GER) and Marcus Ehning (GER), and two-time LGCT Champion Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) will also be determined to put in great performances as the 2014 season continues. The USA has been a dominant force so far, with Kent Farrington, Reed Kessler and Laura Kraut jumping in Madrid, the USA could well claim a second victory. Madrid will also see a very welcome return for fan favourite Gerco Schröder (NED) and Glock’s London, winners of 2013 LGCT Vienna Grand Prix. Canada’s Eric Lamaze and Portugal’s Luciana Diniz are also strong contenders for an early win this season, as is young rising star Constant van Paesschen (BEL) and the in-form Qatari team. With its beautiful grass arena, Madrid will pose very different challenges to the smaller sand arena in Antwerp, so to pick the Grand Prix winner in this talented crowd is a tough task. To see the whole event live and in full, watch our GCT TV live stream, 2-4 May. See the full rider list click here and to buy tickets for the event please click here. Also Equnews will be there... ©press
