Introduction

The Concours Hippique International de Genève (CHI Geneva) is widely recognized as the best and most prestigious indoor show jumping event in the world.
Held every December at the monumental Palexpo Geneva, the event is a cornerstone of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, attracting elite riders, world-class horses and global media attention.

With more than six decades of history, CHI Geneva continues to build its legacy as a place where tradition, excellence and innovation meet at the highest level of equestrian sport.

History & Prestige

For over 60 years, CHI Geneva has been at the forefront of show jumping culture. It has repeatedly earned the title of Best Indoor Show in the World, thanks to its immaculate organization, passionate Swiss management and uncompromising focus on horse welfare and sport quality.

Generations of champions have entered this arena, making Palexpo one of equestrian sport’s most iconic stages.

The Venue: Palexpo Geneva

Palexpo’s massive indoor structure allows the event to host:

• a full-size Main Arena
• a complete Warm-Up Arena
• dedicated Stables Zone
• VIP hospitality areas
• an extensive Exhibitors Village
• professional Media Centre
• veterinary and security checkpoints
• lounges, cafés, restaurants and public services

The layout creates a seamless connection between sporting areas, athlete facilities and spectator zones.

Arena Footing: A Benchmark for Indoor Events

One of CHI Geneva’s strongest assets is its world-class arena footing—engineered for:

• optimal grip and stability
• ideal elasticity
• maximum safety for landing and take-off
• consistent performance throughout the day

A specialized team maintains the surface continuously, ensuring every competitor performs on fair and perfect ground.
Many top riders describe Geneva as having the best indoor footing in the world.

Horse Flow, Welfare & Security

Behind the scenes, horse movement is coordinated with exceptional precision:

• secure access between stables, warm-up and Main Arena
• strict veterinary inspections upon arrival and during the event
• controlled pathways to avoid congestion
• 24/7 welfare supervision by veterinary staff
• dedicated grooms’ operations area

The entire system is built to guarantee horse welfare, safety and calmness, supporting peak performance in the arena.

Media Operations: A Global Broadcast Hub

CHI Geneva is a large-scale media operation, producing content for millions of viewers around the world.

• Key media zones include:
• Media Centre for journalists and photographers
• Production Control Room for broadcast direction
• TV Commentary Box overlooking the Main Arena
• designated photography and filming spots

The efficiency and professionalism of Geneva’s media operations are a major reason the event remains a global reference.

Visitor Experience & Useful Information

Palexpo offers an exceptional visitor experience with:

• multiple entrances and clear signage
• cafés, restaurants and champagne bars
• a large shopping village featuring equestrian brands
• WC, first aid and accessible facilities
• relaxing lounges and public rest areas

Important rules:

• Smoking is only permitted in designated areas
• Dogs are not allowed inside the venue

This makes CHI Geneva a comfortable and well-organized event for families, fans and professionals alike.

Ticket Categories & Pricing

Ticket prices at CHI Geneva are offered in three categories:

• Category III: approx. 40–60 CHF
• Category II: approx. 60–90 CHF
• Category I: approx. 100–160 CHF

A four-day pass is available for dedicated fans, and children benefit from discounted rates across all categories.

Key Competitions

CHI Geneva hosts some of the most prestigious competitions in equestrian sport:

• Rolex Grand Prix
• Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final
• Indoor Cross-Country
• U25 competitions

These highlight events make Geneva one of the most important stops in the global show jumping season.

Officials & Technical Teams (2025)

Below is the complete list of event officials, as published in the FEI-approved schedule.

Ground Jury

• President: Sylvie Navet
• Members: Catherine Fankhauser, Monika Elmer, Didier Gonde
• Foreign Judge: Anna Lindqvist

Course Design Team

• Course Designer: Gérard Lachat
• Assistant Designers: Gregory Bodo, Reto Ruflin, Julien Pradervand, Marco Cortinovis, Bernard Mathy, David Kohnké

Stewarding Team

• Chief Steward: Cesar Alberto Hirsch
• Foreign Steward: Nicolas Martin

Veterinary Team

• Veterinary Delegate: Thierry Grisard
• Additional Delegate: Micaël Klopfenstein
• Veterinary Service Manager: Marco Bryner
• Treating Veterinarians: Marco Bryner, Lara Barrelet

Farrier

• Cyrill Zuber

Medical Services

• Bernard Chabloz
• Secours Medic Events

Stable Management

• Stable Manager: Anastasia Scherz

Announcers

• Alban Poudret
• Gillie Jaquet

Event Management & Organising Committee

• Event Director: Sophie Mottu Morel
• Sport Director: Alban Poudret
• General Secretariat: Frédérique De Lint, Catherine Tizon
• Sports Director Assistant: Elisa Oltra
• Riders’ Contact: Philippe Guerdat
• Equestrian Backstage: Nicole Barraud
• OC Member: Léon Pieyre

Conclusion

CHI Geneva is a true masterpiece of equestrian organization—blending history, precision, innovation and world-class sport under one roof.
From the exceptional footing and flawless horse flow to elite management teams and global media production, every detail reflects Geneva’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

For riders, spectators and professionals alike, CHI Geneva is not just another competition; it is a landmark of international show jumping.

Photo: chi geneva official website