Countdown for Equestrian Event in Front of Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace is On

Tourists at Schönbrunn Palace can currently marvel at a glamorous equestrian course alongside the imperial building. For the Global Champions Tour show jumping event this weekend, the area in front of the palace is being transformed into a massive tournament field with boxes in a logistical feat. "Everything is going according to plan," assured organizer Sonja Klima on Monday.

Equestrian Event Nears at Schönbrunn Palace

The sporting highlights of the equestrian spectacle from Friday to Sunday are the individual and team competitions. A total prize money of around 800,000 euros will be distributed among the world's best riders. Among them is Katharina Rhomberg from Vorarlberg, and local hero Max Kühner, who is currently eighth overall after 12 of 17 stages, has the event in his calendar.

There is a supporting program with musical performances, a village with various stalls, and show acts such as the appearance of the horses "Sissi" and "Franz Josef". The effort for the equestrian event is enormous: 1,400 tons of soil had to be brought to Schönbrunn for the 4,100 square meter tournament area. Covered stands have already been erected on the sides, offering more than 3,000 seats. In total, the organizers expect up to 12,000 visitors.

For the 250 to 300 horses, around 300 horse boxes have been set up in Meidlinger and Hietzinger Allee. Regular tourists cannot enter this area, but they can at least take a look at the "box street". "Everyone should be able to see that we treat the animals well," said Klima.

Vienna Not New Territory for Global Champions Tour

The worldwide Global Champions Tour has previously made stops in Austria - although not in Schönbrunn. From 2012 to 2016, three editions took place at Vienna's Rathausplatz, and once each in Ebreichsdorf and the Vienna Krieau. A new contract has now been signed until 2029. "We hope that Schönbrunn remains the venue," said Klima.

For visitors to Schönbrunn Palace, little changes, as most paths remain open. Access to the state rooms and other attractions is also maintained, and operations continue there without restrictions.

(APA/Red)

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