Rotterdam looking forward to hosting the third leg of Longines League of Nations™ 2025
The countdown is on as Rotterdam (NED) prepares to host the third leg of the prestigious Longines League of Nations™ Jumping series on 20 June 2025, taking centre stage as part of the historic CHIO Rotterdam. Held on the grounds of the Rotterdamsche Manège - home to the oldest riding club in the Netherlands - the event promises a thrilling mix of tradition, top-level sport, and world-class hospitality.
A city transformed for equestrian excellence
Each year, the CHIO Rotterdam transforms the peaceful, wooded Kralingse Bos into a dynamic equestrian arena. This unique city-centre location brings both beauty and logistical complexity. Preparations begin immediately following the previous edition, with the physical transformation of the venue commencing on 28 May. A fully equipped stabling area is constructed from scratch in the nearby forest, offering a serene environment for the horses. This is the only Dutch outdoor 5* FEI event, as well as the only Dutch equestrian top sport event with both a Longines League of Nations™ and an FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ class.
“Rotterdam’s location is both our charm and our challenge,” says Carolien Lavooij, President of CHIO Rotterdam. “But thanks to decades of experience and seamless collaboration with our partners, we’ve perfected the art of turning a forest into a five-star facility.”
Unrivalled atmosphere and experience
Spectators can expect an electric atmosphere, heightened by the presence of the world’s top-ranked riders, all competing under the elite banner of the Longines League of Nations™. The expanded Dressage programme in the Dura Vermeer Arena - named after the founder of the event, Mr. Job Dura - ensures a feast of sport for all fans. The event’s blend of top sport, entertainment, and hospitality makes it a must-visit for both international visitors and local ‘Rotterdammers’.
This year, enhancements to the spectator experience include improved arena views, expanded hospitality options, and increased digital access. The full CHIO Rotterdam programme will be livestreamed, with the Longines League of Nations™ broadcast globally via FEI TV and international broadcasters.
Strong partnerships and unwavering standards
Rotterdam’s long standing relationship with the FEI and Longines ensures world-class execution. A positive review of last year’s inaugural League of Nations™ edition has laid the groundwork for even greater ambitions this year.
“Rotterdam has a proud tradition of hosting elite Nations Cup competitions since 1948,” says Lavooij. "There are few venues in the world that combine heritage, passion, and performance quite like this one"
Prioritising horse and human wellbeing
Rotterdam offers a world-class competition environment with meticulously maintained arenas featuring top-quality footing, essential for peak horse performance and rider safety. The venue includes a peaceful, purpose-built stabling area in the nearby forest, creating a calm and comfortable setting for horses under constant veterinary supervision.
Athletes and grooms benefit from dedicated lounges and premium accommodations, while spectators enjoy excellent viewing areas, expanded hospitality zones, and a vibrant festival atmosphere in the heart of Rotterdam. Its unique blend of tradition and top-tier facilities, all whilst being city-centre accessible - with a host of unique local attractions such as the Markthal and the Erasmus Bridge - makes CHIO Rotterdam an ideal venue for equestrian sport fans and tourists alike.
Dutch pride on display
Dutch fans are known for their vibrant support, filling the stands in iconic orange. For the Dutch team, the home leg is especially meaningful. “There’s nothing quite like hearing the roar of the crowd in your home city,” Lavooij points out; “It lifts us.”
The event also enjoys high-profile support, often attended by members of the Dutch Royal Family, reflecting its cultural and sporting significance for not only the nation, where equestrian is in the top three most popular sports, but internationally for a world that looks up to the Dutch as masters of the equestrian world.
As the stakes rise and the competition heats up, Rotterdam is poised to deliver an unforgettable leg of the Longines League of Nations™. With national pride on the line and leaderboard points at a premium, every round will count.
For full schedules, news, and live coverage, visit https://leagueofnations.fei.org/ and tune in to FEI TV for all the action, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments from CHIO Rotterdam and the Longines League of Nations™.