Release date: 14/03/2016

One of the world’s most spectacular destinations for sport, entertainment and lifestyle will be officially unveiled in the heart of Europe this summer.
 
The official launch of Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, will see the birth of a ground-breaking new mecca for show jumping as well as a stunning destination for cultural activities and entertainment.
 
The state-of-the-art facility will receive international high profile guests, including members of Royal Families and global business leaders, for the official opening ceremony in August.  The outstanding new venue will host the annual Longines Global Champions Tour, the world’s premier show jumping series, from 13th - 16th August. Four days of competition will be crowned by a thrilling official opening ceremony, featuring live entertainment, on Friday 14th August.
 
Spectators and guests will enjoy exceptional surroundings ushering in a new era for the sport in this prime location in Europe. A beautiful and dramatic raised wooden walkway will take VIP guests to a range of stunning hospitality boxes and lounges with exclusive interior design featuring high quality luxury materials. Bespoke wood and stone structures will include the breathtaking “Spider” reception area where guests can admire art and sculptures. There are privileged views of the immaculate competition arena from the elevated Sky Box hospitality suite where guests can reserve seats to enjoy Michelin-standard catering.
 
Fans of show jumping will be able to enjoy superb facilities both in the two spectacular grandstands overlooking the main competition arena, which feature gravity-defying free-standing wooden roofs and will seat around 3,000 people. Tickets are available on www.globalchampionstour.com for the inaugural Tops International Arena event in August. In the elegant Place de Concours visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of smart shopping outlets, champagne bar and delicious food and beverages.
 
The superb new venue is the brainchild of Jan Tops, Olympic gold medallist and businessman, Founder and President of Longines Global Champions Tour. His vision was to create a beautiful and ground-breaking destination for sport, lifestyle and entertainment attracting people from all over the world.
 
“Sport, entertainment and lifestyle are the core elements of Tops International Arena and I am proud that a lifelong vision and aspiration has become reality,” said Mr Tops. “This new facility is about sport, whether it is world class sport at the highest level or about training the talented stars of the future. But it is also about entertainment and fun, culture and art, haute cuisine and style and a great day out for families and friends and I hope everyone will come and enjoy this special place in Europe.”
 
Tops International Arena is at the epicentre of equestrianism in Europe and will reflect the world class sport and luxury lifestyle that surrounds it as the popularity of show jumping continues to grow among fans worldwide on TV, online and at events.