February 14, 2004 - Today, 14th February, the countdown towards the opening of 2004 FEI Jumping World Cup finals in Milan (Italy) marks -60 days to go. For the first time of the over twenty-years-long history of the FEI Jumping World Cup the 2004 final will take place in Italy where, from 21st to 25th April, the world’s best riders and horses will compete in the arena of the Forum of Assago, located in the outskirts of Milan, some 15 minutes from the city centre. Started in 1979, the World Cup Final is an annual showdown among the top international riders. Approximately 45 riders, including many past and future Olympians, qualify from 13 leagues around the world.

The fast running countdown has been marking important moments in the preparations for the event and more significant steps will be highlighted by the approaching of the starting day on Wednesday 21st April when all competitors will be jumping in the training session experiencing their first approach with the Forum’ competition ring and the courses prepared by Italian course designer Uliano Vezzani.

The official count-down to the event officially started last December when a CSI*** was organised as Test Event for the final in order to assess the installations. The competition went smoothly over three days and it proved that, despite the Forum of Assago (the largest indoor sports building of Northern Italy) has never before hosted an equestrian event, its facilities fully satisfy the requirements for such a top horse show.

The 2004 FEI Jumping World Cup finals will be organised by the Italian National Equestrian Federation (FISE) in conjunctions with Media Partners and MKA, two experienced organisers of events that have been partners of FISE for the last few years in the organisation of the CSIO of Rome – Piazza di Siena.

Box Office Now Open
Since a few days from the official opening of the Box Office of the 2004 FEI Jumping World Cup finals, the result is already very positive! All over the world, all the fans and supporters of the equestrian world are not waisting any time in order to book in advance the available tickets to attend the mega event. In order to book tickets, memberships or to reserve exclusive places at the VIP tables overlooking the competition ring, a dedicated phone line is now available: +39 06 638 3818. Bookings are welcomed also via e-mail: ticket@worldcupmilano2004.com .