The city of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former capital of Côte d'Ivoire, is preparing to host the country's first International Equestrian Grand Prix on October 10. The event, organized by the Ivorian Equestrian Federation (FIE), will feature top riders from across the continent, including Mali, Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The competition will be held at the municipal stadium in Grand-Bassam.
The Grand Prix, valued at 5 million FCFA, is named in honor of Jacqueline Ouégnin, who passed away on April 7, 2025. She was a dedicated advocate for equestrian sports in Côte d'Ivoire and her contribution to the sport is being recognized by the equestrian community. The event aims to promote equestrian sports and pay tribute to her legacy. The Ivorian Equestrian Federation has chosen this date to honor her memory.
The event has received support from local authorities, including the mayor of Grand-Bassam, Jean-Louis Moulot. He sees the event as an opportunity to showcase the city's rich heritage and promote its cultural significance. The FIE is working to ensure a successful event, with a focus on transparency and fairness for all participants. The competition will feature various categories and distances.
To ensure the integrity of the competition, the first three races will be reserved for local West African horses, known as Arewa. Horses that do not meet this criteria will be disqualified. A team of experts and veterinarians will verify the origin, conformity, and health of each horse before the competition. This measure aims to promote fair play and protect the welfare of the horses.
The conditions for participation in the Grand Prix are straightforward. Riders must register before the deadline, present an up-to-date veterinary certificate, and undergo mandatory veterinary and anti-doping checks. The event promises to be an exciting and highly competitive spectacle, with top riders from across the continent vying for the top prize.
Stéphane Ouégnin, president of the FIE, and Stéphane Yanké, national technical director, are working together to ensure the success of the event. They are committed to delivering a world-class competition that will promote equestrian sports in Côte d'Ivoire and beyond. The event is expected to attract a large audience and provide a platform for riders to showcase their skills.
The 1st International Equestrian Grand Prix in Grand-Bassam is a significant event for Côte d'Ivoire's equestrian community. It highlights the country's commitment to promoting equestrian sports and its rich cultural heritage. The event will be a fitting tribute to Jacqueline Ouégnin's legacy and a celebration of her contribution to the sport.
Key points
- The event will feature top riders from across the continent competing in various categories and distances.
- The competition will be held at the municipal stadium in Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The Grand Prix is valued at 5 million FCFA and is named in honor of Jacqueline Ouégnin.
