Crusaders confirm major matchday change at One New Zealand Stadium

A symbolic part of the Crusaders’ matchday experience was the six horses that led the team out for every home game at Apollo Projects Stadium, something that will change heading to the new stadium.

Even with the stadium’s brand-new infrastructure, the Crusaders decided that the horses could not be safely accommodated due to the proximity of the fans to the stadium and the limited space around the outside of the field.

Due to the stadium being built for more than just Crusaders games, fans are closer to the action than ever before, which has led to the organisation retiring the club’s horses.

Crusaders Chief Executive Colin Mansbridge explains that the decision was not taken lightly.

“This is a decision that really hurts because the horses have been part of who we are from the very beginning, and we know how much they mean to our fans. That feeling of watching them run out in front of a packed crowd, while Conquest of Paradise plays, is a feeling I will never forget,” Mansbridge said on a Crusaders statement.

“We’ve tried our absolute best to make this work, and we want our Crusaders whanau to know we have left no stone unturned. Ultimately, safety must come first, even when the emotional cost is high.”

Mark Donald, one of the spokespersons for the group of Crusaders riders, adds that the decision was made beyond his group’s control, leaving the riders extremely disappointed.

“The infrastructure at the new stadium is simply not compatible with the Crusaders horses which is incredibly disappointing,” Donald said on a Crusaders statement.

“We have been through everything with this team. From the earthquakes, then the mosque attack and Covid. The Crusaders mean everything to us; we aren’t just guys who ride horses around a field, we are an important part of this club, and this is what hurts the most.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from the community and the Crusaders themselves. After three decades, this is not how we hoped things would end. It hurts to say goodbye to something that has been such a big part of our lives. Our commitment to horsemanship, to our riders, and to the people of Christchurch remains unwavering.”

Although the news will be disappointing for fans and people around the country, Mansbridge wants the community to acknowledge the contribution of the horses and the riding group.

“We’re incredibly proud of the traditions that have shaped The Crusaders, and the horses will always be a special part of our story. While this decision will take time to sink in, when the time is right, we’ll engage our community on what a new ritual could look like.

“But for now, we want to recognise what the horses and riders have done for us and our club for three decades. We are working through how to appropriately acknowledge and thank them for their contribution to our club and will confirm this in due course. ”