The Algarve is set to join the likes of Paris, London, New York and Miami as one of the world’s main show jumping destinations with the opening of Algarve Vilamoura Classic, a shiny new equestrian centre which will bring five-star show jumping to the Algarve for the first time.
Set to officially open in February 2026, the venue will host a series of show jumping events taking place across 11 weeks of competition.
The Resident was given an exclusive presentation of the project by the venue’s new manager Grandprix Events, which revealed its plans to turn Algarve Vilamoura Classic into a leading international destination for show jumping.
“The whole centre was built from scratch to bring it to our standards,” Grandprix spokesperson Clara Heurteux told The Resident.
Everything at Algarve Vilamoura Classic was designed to meet the highest standards, offering an experience on par with the best equestrian events across the globe, the spokesperson told us.
The upgraded centre will feature three new ebb-and-flow sand arenas, each exceeding 6,500m² and a large grass arena measuring 14,000 m². Additionally, key features of the upgrade include four undulate warm up arenas, and Europe’s largest covered free-training arena exceeding 6,000m². There will also be a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, over 1,000 new fixed stables, three premium hospitality spots with a VIP space, and a 3km horse path.
Another defining feature will be a VIP restaurant offering an “unparalleled dining experience”. Located right beside the competition arena, the restaurant will “allow guests to immerse themselves fully in the event, combining front-row views with world class cuisine.” The restaurant will serve up to 500 VIP guests.
But the main focus of the centre will be on show jumping. The opening of Algarve Vilamoura Classic will mark the debut of the region’s first CSI5* – the highest level of show jumping competition, as classified by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI).
The events will begin on February 24, 2026, with the Classic Tour I, consisting of three weeks of CSI3*, CSI1*, and young horse competitions. It will be followed by the Master Tour from March 17 to 22, featuring a CSI4*, before reaching its highlight: the first edition of the Vilamoura CSI5*, scheduled for March 24 to 29. This will be the first event of its level in Portugal since the CSI5* of Cascais, held six years ago. As the team at Grandprix point out: “The five-star label represents the highest level of international competition, attracting top ranked riders, Olympic-level horses, and global media coverage.”
The autumn calendar will continue with the Classic Tour II from October 20 to November 9, offering two weeks of CSI3* and one of CSI4*, while the Classic Tour III, from November 17 to December 6, will close the year with three additional weeks of international competitions.
What’s most impressive is that every event will be free. “There is an idea that show jumping and equestrian sports are elitist. This is something we want to prove is not true,” Clara Heurteux told us.
Making every visitor feel welcome will be a defining feature of Algarve Vilamoura Classic, where guests will be able to explore an array of 20 exhibitors showcasing premium equestrian gear, lifestyle brands, and artisan goods, “creating a lively marketplace atmosphere.” There will also be a variety of gourmet food trucks and a spacious restaurant with over 200 seats, promising to “cater to every taste, serving fresh local flavours and international dishes.” The restaurant’s terrace will also offer guests a “relaxing space with an elevated viewpoint of the arena, perfect for enjoying the competitions from a unique perspective,” Grandprix says.
Around 50,000 visitors are expected per season at the venue, with local residents making up the vast majority – around 80%, Grandprix estimates.
Algarve Vilamoura Classic is also predicted to have an economic impact of €39 million – €24 million linked to the equestrian industry (from the purchase of equestrian products to prize money won by riders and on-site trade shows) and €15 million generated for the hospitality sector.
Despite The Resident’s queries, Grandprix and Arrow Global have declined to reveal the total investment in the new centre.
Why the Algarve?
The revival of the Vilamoura equestrian centre was led by Arrow Global Group, which owns the site as well as several other local tourism infrastructures. The group approached Grandprix – a celebrated French equestrian event organiser and media group – which was attracted by the opportunity to spearhead the development and management of a new equestrian venue brimming with potential.
“Vilamoura is a destination with a rich equestrian history,” Clara Heurteux told us, adding that Grandprix is attracted by locations with strong ties to equestrian sports.
The Algarve’s increasing international connectivity, with Faro International Airport just a short drive away, and its multinational community, vibrant tourism sector and year-round sunshine – which caters to all riders and horses, some of which do not adapt well to indoor venues, she explained – were also named as vital factors in Grandprix’s decision to commit to the region.
Grandprix – which has taken over management of Algarve Vilamoura Classic for the next 15 years – boasts 12 years of experience organising equestrian events, from Longines Deauville Classic and Chantilly Classic to Fontainebleau Classic. It also promises to put Vilamoura and the Algarve on the international equestrian map through its several media outlets in Europe, such as its self-titled monthly magazine, Grandprix.
What riders are saying about Algarve Vilamoura Classic
Grandprix has shared testimonies from top show jumpers, who share their excitement about the upcoming events in Vilamoura.
“I’m really excited about Vilamoura Classic. With Grandprix organising it, I know everything will run smoothly – the horses will get the best care, and the competition will be seamless. It’s also the kind of place where you can settle in and really focus, which is exactly what we need during winter,” said Olympic gold medallist (in Team Jumping at Rio 2016) Kevin Staut, cited by Grandprix.
The sentiment was echoed by Cian O’Connor, a bronze medallist in Individual Jumping at London 2012. “I’ve competed in Grandprix Events shows in 2024 and 2025, and I have to say, Vilamoura Classic is a fantastic addition to their circuit. With Grandprix at the helm, I know my horses will have the best conditions for training and performing. That’s so important during the winter season.”
Belgian show jumping rider Olivier Philippaerts also spoke to the Algarve’s strengths as a destination for show jumping. “What I love about Vilamoura is that it’s not just a show – it’s a real destination. You can stay for weeks, train in amazing conditions, and enjoy everything the area has to offer. It’s perfect for winter when you want to focus on your horses and still make the most of the surroundings,” he said.
