It is said that Jan Tops, patron of the Global Champions Tour, is inspired by his friend Bernie Ecclestone in the management of his innovative Format on Horse Jumping. The best 30 riders in the world share the scene with as many well-heeled lovers of the sport, willing to write cheques for € 200.000 just to challenge the professionals in exclusive locations. At the end of the season these rich riders will very probably buy the winning purebloods, either from Tops himself or from other professional riders, for a million euros.
