LGCT Grand Prix of Doha Decoded: The Strides That Made the Difference & The Title Race Ahead

The 2025 Longines Global Champions Tour season opened in spectacular fashion in Doha, with Abdel Said and Bonne Amie delivering a masterclass to clinch their second consecutive LGCT Grand Prix of Doha victory. In a thrilling showdown under the floodlights of Al Shaqab, Said’s strategic and fearless approach to the jump-off secured him the win ahead of Daniel Deusser and Gangster v/h Noddevelt. With this victory, Said rockets to the top of the championship standings, setting the stage for what promises to be a historic season.

Precision vs. Power: A Head-to-Head Battle

The defining moments of the jump-off were captured in an electrifying head-to-head comparison between Abdel Said and Daniel Deusser. From the very first fences, Said and Bonne Amie wasted no time in taking control. Opting for an ultra-forward and direct eight strides between fences one and two, the pair set themselves up for a high-speed run through the rest of the course. In contrast, Deusser played a more conservative strategy, taking nine strides for a wider, straighter approach. This split-second decision ultimately allowed Said to maintain his momentum and push ahead.

As the jump-off unfolded, the difference in approach became even clearer. The final stride count to the last fence proved decisive—Said and Bonne Amie executed an ambitious nine strides, whereas Deusser and Gangster v/h Noddevelt took ten, costing them crucial fractions of a second. Said’s aggressive tactics and Bonne Amie’s powerful stride made all the difference, securing him a commanding win.

📺 Watch the head-to-head breakdown to see exactly where Abdel Said sealed the victory!

Championship Standings After Stage One: A New Era Begins?

With a maximum 40 points and over €198,000 in prize money secured, Abdel Said leads the LGCT Championship standings after the opening leg. It’s a familiar sight—mirroring his strong start in 2024—but will he maintain his momentum throughout the season?

In a potential shake-up of the championship landscape, many of last year’s dominant names are noticeably absent from the top ten. Maikel van der Vleuten, Henrik von Eckermann, Christian Kukuk, and reigning LGCT Champion Max Kühner all either not starting in Doha, or, if they did, finished outside the leading pack in Doha, setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable 2025 season. Could this be the year that the championship sees its most dramatic shift yet?

Among the rising stars making waves is Abdulrahman Alrajhi, who claimed his first-ever LGCT Grand Prix podium with a stunning third-place finish. With a strong start, he currently sits third in the championship rankings—could he be the dark horse of the 2025 season?

Meanwhile, Daniel Deusser, a former LGCT Championship podium finisher and LGCT Super Grand Prix winner, remains a key contender. With experience and consistency on his side, he could be one to watch as the season progresses.

One thing is certain: as the 19th season of the Longines Global Champions Tour unfolds, 2025 is already shaping up to be one for the history books.

📊 Check out the full 2025 LGCT Championship standings after stage one!

Next up, the Tour moves to the vibrant setting of Mexico City from March 27-30. Will Abdel Said extend his lead, or will a new contender rise to challenge his dominance? The battle for the 2025 LGCT Championship is well and truly underway.