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 11 race series, with over €815,000 in prize money, will be 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 is at Lion d’Angers in May following further races in France and visits to Poland, Italy and to Czechia for the Velka Pardubika. After 8 legs, the action moves to Cheltenham during the Festival, where Irish connections hold a strong hand, but with French races yet to conclude the Series, they still hold an advantage. Follow the leaderboard for details. See the runners for Wednesday’s race here.

“France is proud to be involved in this exciting, six-nation initiative, that brings together Europe’s leading Cross Country racecourses to celebrate the most successful stable in the 11 chosen races”

Jean d’Indy, Vice Chairman of France Galop.

Crystal Cup 2023/2024 Meetings

Date Location Country Prize
29 August 2023 Waregem Belgium €80,000
3 September 2023 Craon France €75,000
23 September 2023 Merano Italy €40,000
8 October 2023 Pardubice Czech Republic €200,000
22 October 2023 Wroclaw Poland €40,000
10 November 2023 Compiègne France €48,000
15 December 2023 Cheltenham England €48,000
18 February 2024 Pau France €82,000
13 March 2024 Cheltenham England €74,000
29 March 2024 Fontainebleau France €57,000
9 May 2024 Le Lion d'Angers France €100,000
Total €844,000