Showjumping supremo Jan Tops will be unveiling a new “state-of-the-art” equestrian facility in the Netherlands this summer.
The venue promises to be “one of the world’s most spectacular destinations for sport, entertainment and lifestyle”.
The Olympic gold medal-winning showjumper, and founder of the Longines Global Champions Tour (GCT), wanted to create a “beautiful and ground-breaking destination, attracting people from all over the world”.
The Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard is to host a leg of the GCT from 13-16 August, with an official opening ceremony on 14 August.
“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.”
There will be a range of hospitality boxes and lounges as well as a reception area featuring art and sculptures.
Fans of showjumping will be able watch the action on two grandstands overlooking the main competition arena, which feature free-standing wooden roofs and will seat around 3,000 people.
Tickets are available on www.globalchampionstour.com for the inaugural event in August.
The GCT also returns to London this summer, and tickets are now on sale.
The event will take place from 24-26 July in the west London venue Syon House for the first time, after running at Horseguards Parade last year and the Olympic Park in 2013.
