About

The Crystal Cup European Cross Country Challenge brings together the finest international horses and riders to reward the most successful stable in cross country steeple chasing.

The 12 race series, with over €850,000 in prize money, is hosted by many of Europe’s premier racecourses, over unique combinations of hedges, banks, ditches and timber. The Challenge began in late August at a packed Waregem Racecourse in Belgium, whilst the final race at Lion d’Angers in late May provides a fittingly thrilling result following races in France and visits to Poland, Italy, England, Ireland and to Czechia for the Velka Pardubika. After Hip Hop Conti’s famous hat-trick over Pau’s fearsome obstacles in February, the top of the leaderboard has condensed, with Cheltenham, Punchestown and two French races to go. Follow the leaderboard for placings up to and including Cheltenham on February 9th, where a momentous day for Emanuel Clayeux’s course specialist  showcased this genre of the sport and our news pages for a review of the latest leg in France.

“France is proud to be involved in this exciting, seven-nation initiative, that brings together Europe’s leading Cross Country racecourses to celebrate the most successful stable in the 12 chosen races”

Jean d’Indy, Vice Chairman of France Galop.