Scottsdale will once again take its place on the international Arabian horse calendar this February as the Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT) returns to Arizona for its first Americas stage of the 2026 season. Scheduled for Friday 13 February to Sunday 15 February, GCAT Scottsdale will be staged under the Big Tent at WestWorld of Scottsdale, unveiling a larger footprint and an elevated championship experience.
Following the strong reception of its debut year, the 2026 instalment introduces a full three-day schedule, new performance divisions, and expanded competition facilities. Close to 150 exceptional Arabian horses from across the globe are expected to participate, bringing together leading owners, breeders, and handlers from the international equestrian community.
This year’s programme will feature nine competitive classes, with Scottsdale serving as an official qualifying event on the pathway to the World Arabian Horse Championship Supreme in Paris this November. The redesigned venue layout includes a larger arena and expanded paddock space, improving the overall spectator experience at the city’s most recognisable equestrian event settings.
“The support we saw from the equestrian community last year exceeded every expectation,” said GCAT Americas Director Taryl O’Shea. “Scottsdale showed up and inspired us to raise the bar even higher for year two. This year’s event combines an authentic Western influence with an elevated Scottsdale aesthetic, with every aspect feeling bigger, bolder, and more immersive.”
The three-day showcase concludes Sunday evening with the return of championship day, one of the most celebrated moments of last year’s programme. Beyond the arena, guests can explore GCAT’s signature event village, offering curated retail, brand showcases, and a diverse selection of food and beverage concepts that enhance the premium atmosphere.
General admission is free, ensuring broad community access, while premium VIP table experiences are available for purchase. Blending world-class Arabian horse competition with a sophisticated lifestyle environment, GCAT Scottsdale continues to grow as a premier destination event, appealing to seasoned equestrian followers and new audiences alike and solidifying its place on Scottsdale’s 2026 social and cultural calendar.
Follow @arabianstour on Instagram or visit www.gcarabianstour.com to stay updated with the latest news, or download the GCAT app, available on Apple and Android for real-time results and rankings.
About Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT)
Inaugurated in 2024, the Global Champions Arabians Tour is an exclusive Arabian Horse Championship series, taking place in state-of-the-art venues in iconic locations worldwide, and offers the highest prize money in the sport’s history. Its mission is to promote the uniqueness of Purebred Arabian horses through an international platform, fostering a legacy of excellence, transparency, fairness, and integrity.
Click here to read more from GCAT on TheArabianMagazine.Com
