September 12, 2023 
Over the past four years, Desert International Horse Park’s (DIHP) management team has invested nearly $20 million in infrastructure improvements to convert the legacy property into a world-class venue fit for hosting the best horses and riders in the sport. This month, those efforts are paying off.
DIHP is one of a handful of North American show parks to be selected as a host venue for the upcoming Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ series from 2024/2025 through 2027/2028. The North American League will make seven other stops in North America.
The Thermal qualifier will take place January 29 through February 2, 2025 during DIHP’s Desert Circuit, which spans from January to March every year. In addition to CSI5* level competition, the event will also feature a CSI2* division.
“We have put endless effort into making DIHP the best facility it can be in order to host events of this caliber,” said Steve Hankin, DIHP President and CEO. “We are thrilled to get to show off all the work we have done to this global audience and welcome riders, FEI World Cup™ personnel, spectators, sponsors, and show jumping hopefuls to take in all that we have to offer.”
Since last hosting a Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifier in 2019, DIHP has undergone significant property improvements, including the installation of 1.6 million square feet of all-weather footing, enhanced stabling including 12’x12′ stalls for all horses, and the planting of thousands of trees and installation of various shade structures for both horses and riders. Plus: DIHP has added a miles-long galloping track and extra schooling rings throughout the horse park.
Situated on nearly 240 scenic acres in Thermal, California, surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, DIHP is one of the largest equestrian facilities in North America and hosts 18 weeks of competition every year—from walk-trot classes through five-star show jumping and all levels of dressage.
