The timing of this crisis is disastrous for the organization and the equestrian world. With only five days left until the official season opener, the region has transformed into a flashpoint. Following joint American and Israeli strikes on targets in Iran, Tehran launched a retaliatory response affecting the entire region. Although Doha—unlike Abu Dhabi and Bahrain—successfully deployed its defense systems and does not currently appear to have been directly hit, the tension is palpable.

Horses and Staff in Limbo

In contrast to a standard European show where participants arrive shortly before the start, Doha has been the center of the sport for weeks. Many riders and horses were already on-site for competitions at the Al Shaqab complex.

Logistics are fully in place and the stables are filled with top athletes, but questions are mounting: Is it responsible to allow the competition to proceed under a threatening sky? If the event is canceled, how will the horses and staff be transported home safely and quickly, given the current blockades in air traffic?

Situation Changing Minute by Minute

The Global Champions Tour organization is holding its breath. Spokesperson Floss Bish-Jones has stated that they are in close contact with the Qatari government, but no official decision has been made yet.

"The situation on the ground is literally changing from one minute to the next. We are waiting for updates from our contacts on-site and the local authorities. For now, we don't have enough certain details to build on."

Regarding the condition of the stables, the organization remains cautiously optimistic: "According to the latest reports, everyone is safe and there have been no strikes in the vicinity of the stables. That is the most important positive point at this moment."

Season Opener in Jeopardy

Although the LGCT intended to open the 2026 season with great fanfare, it now appears the first of the seventeen stages may fall through. Without a swift diplomatic resolution, a cancellation seems inevitable. The equestrian world is watching the developments in the Middle East with a wary eye.