Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale once again showcased their class, claiming their very first Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final victory with an impressive score of 88.195%. With nearly four percentage points of breathing room, the pair left no doubt about the outcome, taking unanimous first placings from all five judges. The podium order from the Grand Prix remained intact, with Isabell Werth (GER) and DSP Quantaz securing second place, and Isabel Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD completing the top three.

Following a convincing Grand Prix win the day before, Fry and the black stallion Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses) sealed the deal in Basel (SUI) in style. The reigning World Champion and Olympic Freestyle bronze medallist can now add the prestigious FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final title to her already glittering CV.

“This is very special. To win here today is absolutely amazing, and it felt like Glammie loved every second of it.”

Charlotte Fry
(GBR)

 She extended her winning streak with this victory, having already claimed the World Cup freestyles victories in London (GBR), Amsterdam (NED), and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED) with Glamourdale.

Isabell Werth (GER), riding second-last with DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schülze and Victoria Max-Theurer), came closest to challenging Fry. Scoring 84.365%, the German legend secured her third consecutive podium finish at a World Cup Final, having also placed third in Omaha (USA) and Riyadh (KSA). “Mission accomplished,” Werth laughed, having already stated ahead of the Final that second place was her realistic goal.

A second striking black stallion completed the top three: Total Hope OLD (owned by Lone Boegh Hendriksen, Oivind Bache and Paul Schockemöhle), ridden by Isabel Freese (NOR), made history by delivering Norway’s first-ever World Cup Final podium finish. Scoring 81.850%, Freese was visibly overjoyed: “I’m over the moon, this went beyond all my expectations!”

Shuffles in the midfield

While the top four remained unchanged, the rankings saw notable shifts from fifth place downwards. The action unfolded early in the evening in the beautifully dressed and atmospheric St. Jakobshalle in Basel. Kevin Kohmann (USA) guided Duenensee to a very credible performance, showing improved piaffe and passage work compared to the Grand Prix. Their 75.535% earned a place in the top 10. Just ahead of him was Pauline Basquin (FRA), whose Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE impressed in the trot tour but had some errors in the canter, scoring 77.055%.

Midway through the competition, Larissa Pauluis (BEL) entered with Flambeau and delivered a strong performance in her second World Cup Final, though a mistake in the one-tempi changes brought their score to 77.470%.

Immediately after, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) entered the arena and lifted the spirits with her chestnut mare. With ears pricked and a charming, crowd-pleasing Freestyle, the pair danced their way to 78.990% and a sixth place in their very first World Cup Final.

The 80% barrier breached five times

Defending champion Patrik Kittel (SWE) debuted a brand-new Freestyle with the mare Forever Young HRH, naturally featuring Alphaville’s iconic track ‘Forever Young’ to close. With a particularly expressive trot tour, they were the first combination to break the 80% barrier, posting 80.115% and ultimately finishing fifth.

Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and Maxima Bella charmed the audience with a stunning piaffe and passage tour. A mistake in the one-tempi changes and pirouettes, however, cost them, and their score of 78.590% saw them slip slightly from fourth in the Grand Prix to seventh in the Freestyle.

Meanwhile, Corentin Pottier (FRA), who had tied for fourth in the Grand Prix with Sysojeva, maintained his form. As the final rider of the evening, he and Gotilas du Feuillard delivered a polished performance, with a hiccup in the extended canter being the only flaw. Their 80.415% made them one of five combinations to break the 80% threshold.

Werth’s expertise shines

Just before Pottier, Isabell Werth entered the arena with DSP Quantaz. The seasoned competitor put her vast experience to good use, piloting the bay gelding expertly through a clean, accurate test to secure her 16th World Cup Final podium.

“Quantaz really improved from yesterday, so I’m completely happy. He was more open today; we had a good piaffe and passage tour. At the end, the crowd joined in – it’s great to feel the audience so into the competition,” said the most decorated Dressage athlete of all time.

Freese makes history for Norway

Isabel Freese wrote history in Basel with her third-place finish – Norway’s first World Cup Final podium. She beamed with pride after her ride on Total Hope OLD.

“Today everything came together. He was light to ride, I really enjoyed it. He was 100% with me and gave me an amazing feeling. This is what we work for every day. I had hoped for a top-five finish, but this is just incredible.”

Isabel Freese

(NOR)

Fry and Glamourdale dominate in harmony

But it was Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale who reigned supreme. With a Freestyle brimming with power, yet also elegance and lightness, Fry guided the stallion with great finesse to the sounds of iconic British hits. 

“Yesterday, Glammie was definitely a little intimidated by the hall, but today he knew his job. He loves to have all eyes on him, and when the crowd joined in, he seemed to love it even more. This is all a team effort – with everyone at home at Van Olst Horses and all our supporters. Everything came together tonight, this is such a special feeling,” she said, still smiling in disbelief at the imposing Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™, which stood just in front of her.

Image: FEI / Ben Clark

Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale entered the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final as one of the favourites, and they more than lived up to that status. A score of 77.152% sealed the victory in the Grand Prix, which serves as the qualifier for tomorrow’s Freestyle. Glamourdale once again impressed with his powerful canter work. Isabell Werth (GER), undoubtedly the most experienced athlete in the field, claimed second place with DSP Quantaz, closely followed by Isabel Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD in third.

Several top combinations had to go early in the impressive St. Jakobshalle arena in Basel, including Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD. The striking black stallion has two former FEI Dressage World Cup™ winners as parents: Totilas as sire and Weihegold OLD as dam. Total Hope OLD (owned by Lone Boegh Hendriksen, Oivind Bache and Paul Schockemöhle) entered the arena with a tense halt, but grew into the test as it progressed. The score of 74.413% held firm for a long time and ultimately secured third place — the first ever FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final podium finish for a Norwegian combination.

“Total Hope is a real macho, but he learns quickly and is fantastic to ride. Today we lost some valuable marks at the beginning, but I’m very proud of the rest of our test,” said Freese. 

Only Isabell Werth with DSP Quantaz and Charlotte Fry with Glamourdale managed to surpass that score later in the field.

Top combinations early in the running

The very first combination of the day also made a strong impression: Larissa Pauluis (BEL) and Flambeau (owned by Caroline and Emmanuel Lepage and Jean and Marie-Christine Pauluis) posted a nearly error-free test for 72.935%, which was eventually good enough for seventh place. “It hasn’t always been easy with Flambeau, but we kept believing in our dream, and here we are,” she smiled after her test. 

One of the three American combinations also earned a top-10 placing before the break: Adrienne Lyle (USA) with Helix (owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center). The long-legged chestnut grew in confidence throughout the test, scoring 72.565% and finishing ninth. Pauline Basquin (FRA) and Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (owned by Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Équitation) followed just behind with 72.348%.

Mares steal the show

After the break, the energy in the arena quickly ramped up with many top combinations aiming for a place in the top three. Several mares stole the show, including Forever Young HRH (owned by the athlete and Gestüt Peterhof), ridden by reigning champion Patrik Kittel (SWE). He chose the elegant mare instead of last year’s winner, Touchdown, as his partner for the Final. With 73.130%, he came close, but a costly mistake in the two-tempis prevented a higher score. Kittel finished in sixth place. Directly after him, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) delivered an impressive Grand Prix with the chestnut mare Florine OLD (owned by Elisabeth von Wulffen), scoring 72.609% and taking eighth place.

Another mare who captured the hearts of the audience was Maxima Bella, ridden by Sandra Sysojeva (POL). The imposing black mare, who also competed in the Freestyle Final at the Paris Olympic Games, impressed with her piaffe and passage tour, earning a score of 74.283% and fourth place.

This was a tie for fourth place with Corentin Pottier (FRA), who rode the test of his life aboard the gelding Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Maryse and Herve Pottier and Camille Judet Cheret). His 74.283% marked a new personal best, and as the final athlete of the day, his exceptionally correct and harmonious performance also won over the crowd.

Werth reaches her goal

Isabell Werth is riding her 26th FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Basel, and her third with DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schülze and Victoria Max-Theurer). She placed third in the Finals in Omaha (USA) in 2023 and fourth in Riyadh (KSA) in 2024. Earlier this year, she won both the Grand Prix and Freestyle in the World Cup qualifier in Basel. Her goal was to climb one place higher in the Final ranking this year, and with 74.848% in today’s Grand Prix, she managed just that, finishing second.

“I was very pleased with Quantaz,” she said with satisfaction. “The first two days here weren’t easy for him. He was very spooky and not focused. Today, as soon as I got on, he was more relaxed, and he stayed focused throughout the test.”

Fry impresses — but knows there’s more in store

As the twelfth to go, Charlotte Fry laid down a score with Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses) that no one could top: 77.152%. It wasn’t their highest score ever, but it was enough to take the win. The first piaffe, where the black stallion briefly hesitated, cost them some marks.

“Today he was definitely more impressed in here than he was in other arenas this World Cup season. I really had to give him quite some confidence today, but he trusted me. We had some amazing moments today, I’m very happy with the flying changes and with a lot of the trot work.”

Fry is looking forward to tomorrow evening’s Freestyle: 

“I want to present everyone a beautiful freestyle and give Glamourdale every possibility to be as good as he can be. He is such a personality and a real showman.” 

Charlotte Fry

(GBR)

All combinations through to the Freestyle

All combinations in today’s Grand Prix met the minimum score requirement of 60%, meaning we’ll see them all again in tomorrow’s Freestyle Final.

With such close scores at the top of the leaderboard, everything is still to play for in the Freestyle.

Competition in the Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final kicks off tomorrow at 19:30 CET — so don’t miss a hoofbeat!

Image: FEI / Ben Clark

After an exhilarating FEI Dressage World Cup™ season, the lineup for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final has been confirmed. From 2–6 April, the St. Jakobshalle in Basel (SUI) will set the stage for the first-ever FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final to be held in Switzerland. Defending champion Patrik Kittel (SWE) will make his way to Basel to battle for back-to-back victories.

Over the past  2024-2025 season, 38 qualifiers took place across four leagues: the Western European League, the North American League, the Central European League, and the Pacific League. With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games behind us, the world's top Dressage athletes have set their sights on the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final 2025. The race for the 18 coveted spots was fiercely contested, with a star-studded field making a last-minute push for points in ’s-Hertogenbosch last weekend.

Kittel to defend his title

18 athletes from 13 nations will go head-to-head in pursuit of the prestigious FEI Dressage World Cup™ World Cup title. Defending champion and current World No. 10 Patrik Kittel (SWE) qualified his  mare Forever Young HRH (owned by the athlete and Gestüt Peterhof). The mare delivered strong performances in the Amsterdam (NED) and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED) qualifiers, proving she is ready for the Final.

Joining Kittel are nine combinations from the Western European League, including World No. 2 Isabell Werth (GER), who will bring DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer) to Basel. With this horse, she secured third place at the last two Finals in Riyadh (KSA) and Omaha (USA). As a legend of the sport, Werth will make her 26th FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final appearance. Her track record speaks for itself. She has reached the podium in her last six Finals and claimed the title five times, with her first victory dating back to Gothenburg (SWE) in 1992. Having won the Lyon (FRA), Stuttgart (GER), and Basel qualifiers this season, Werth is in top form heading into the Final.

Western European League contenders

World No. 3 and reigning Freestyle Olympic bronze medallist Charlotte Fry (GBR) has also confirmed her participation. She will partner with her black powerhouse Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses), with whom she dominated the London, Amsterdam, and ’s-Hertogenbosch qualifiers, with her last two wins trending towards the 90% mark.

Germany will be well-represented in Basel, having secured the maximum number of spots allowed per nation. Alongside Werth, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) will compete with Florine OLD (owned by Elisabeth von Wulffen), while Carina Scholz (GER) will bring Tarantino (owned by Sportpferde Scholz). Nowag-Aulenbrock set a new personal best of 80.450% in ’s-Hertogenbosch and also claimed victory in Mariakalnok while also reaching the podium in Stuttgart. Scholz has enjoyed a strong FEI Dressage World Cup™ season with multiple horses, and has confirmed that her routineer Tarantino 5, runner-up in Madrid (ESP), will be her mount for Basel.

France will be represented by two of their Olympic combinations, including Corentin Pottier (FRA) and Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Camille Judet Cheret, Herve Pottier and Maryse Pottier), who finished second in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings, just behind Werth. Pottier launched his campaign late in the season, beginning in Mechelen (BEL) in December, but secured crucial points with two third-place finishes in Neumünster (GER) and Gothenburg (SWE), as well as a victory in Motesice (SVK) in the Central European League. His compatriot Pauline Basquin (FRA), winner of the Madrid qualifier, will also make her FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final debut with Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (owned by Institut Francais Du Cheval Et De L’Equitation).

Belgium’s Larissa Pauluis (BEL) will return to the final with Flambeau (owned by Marie Christine Pauluis, Jean Pauluis, Emmanuel Lepage and Caroline Lepage), having competed in Riyadh (KSA) last year with First-Step Valentin. Also making a repeat appearance is Borja Carrascosa (ESP) with Sir Hubert NRW (owned by the athlete and Sportpferde Hofmann GbR), winner of the qualifier in Lerma, St. Vincent, Mexico.

Isabell Freese (NOR) has confirmed her participation with Total Hope OLD (owned by Paul Schockemöhle, Lone Boegh-Hendriksen and Oivind Bache), the stallion she also rode in the Olympic Freestyle Final. A true legacy horse, Total Hope OLD is the product of two former FEI Dressage World Cup™ champions: sired by Totilas and with triple FEI Dressage World Cup™ winner Weihegold OLD as his mom. Basel will mark Freese’s first-ever World Cup Final appearance.

North American League

Spanning 10 competitions, the North American League allocated three tickets to the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, all of which were secured by American combinations. The first points were claimed by Kevin Kohmann and Duenensee (owned by Diamante Farms), who secured victory in Devon at the end of September.

The second leg of the NAL made history as the first-ever FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier in Mexico, held in Lerma, St. Vincent. In an unexpected twist, the win went to Western European League athlete Borja Carrascosa flew his Sir Hubert NRW across the Atlantic and picked up 20 points in Mexico. Kohmann also capitalised on the opportunity, finishing second.

Kohmann enjoyed a strong season, claiming another 20 points with a win in Wellington (USA) in early March. His consistent performances in Ocala (USA) in December, and in Wellington in January and March, secured him a well-earned spot in the Final. He returns for his second consecutive appearance, having competed in last year’s Final in Riyadh with Duenensee.

Two more combinations secured 60 points to qualify: Genay Vaughn and Adrienne Lyle. For 31-year-old Vaughn, it will be a debut appearance at the Final. With Gino (owned by Michele Vaughn), she secured victories in Thermal (USA) and Del Mar (USA) in February, amassing the necessary 60 points in just three competitions.

Three-time Olympian Adrienne Lyle also had a successful campaign with Helix (owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center), her Paris 2024 Olympic partner. She won all three of her outings, taking top honours in Ocala in December, as well as back-to-back victories in Wellington in January and February. This propelled her above Anna Marek and Kevin Kohmann, who finished second and third in Ocala. Marek, who competed in last year’s Final in Riyadh with Fire Fly (owned by Janet Simile), came close once again but fell just short, despite strong performances in Ocala and Wellington.

Central European League

The Central European League featured no fewer than 14 qualifiers, kicking off in May in Budapest (HUN). The two coveted tickets to the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final were secured by Anikó Komjáthy-Losonczy and Sandra Sysojeva, both finishing on 80 points.

The season opener in Budapest saw home athlete Yazmin Yom-Tov and her grey Konfucius (owned by Arie Yom Tov) claim victory ahead of Katarzyna Milczarek. The Polish athlete delivered an impressive season aboard Guapo (owned by the Athlete), winning in Brno (CZE) and Wroclaw (POL), but her final tally of 74 points left her just outside qualification.

Paris Olympian and Riyadh World Cup Finalist Justina Vanagaite (LTU) took the second qualifier in Olomouc (CZE) with Nabab (owned by the athlete and Jurga Girniute and Ramunas Bogdanas) and later finished second in Motesice (SVK) in October. As the highest-placed CEL athlete in that event, she gained 20 points. She also posted two runner-up finishes in Riga (LAT) and Tallinn (EST), rounding off a strong season, but ultimately falling short of qualification with 74 points.

Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and her Olympic Freestyle-finalist mare Maxima Bella (owned by the athlete and Dominika Krasko Bialek and Piet Lenskens) captured the hearts of many with an unbeaten record in four FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifiers, triumphing in Pärnu (EST), Riga (LAT), Wierzbna Bialy Las (POL), and Tallinn (EST).

Anikó Komjáthy-Losonczy (HUN) also secured four maximum-score performances with her big grey Dior S (owned by Okura Co Ltd). The pair finished second in Lipica (SLO) in June and sixth in Samorin (SVK) and Mariakalnok (HUN). However, as all combinations ahead of her were from other leagues, she still gained the full 20 points in both events, securing her place in for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Basel.

Pacific League

The Pacific League consisted of three qualifiers, all held in Australia: CDI-W Werribee in March, CDI-W Melbourne in December, and the Pacific League Final, which returned to Werribee.

The opening qualifier went to the only 21-year-old Jessica Dertell (AUS) with Cennin, narrowly edging out David McKinnon (AUS). Dertell also finished third aboard Syriana, the horse previously campaigned by Mary Hanna (AUS), who took fourth place with her new ride, Ivanhoe.

McKinnon took the Melbourne leg aboard Estupendo (owned by Vivien Lipshut), scoring 75.400% in the Freestyle to claim victory over Hanna and Ivanhoe (owned by the athlete), who finished second with 73.695%.

Hanna returned to the top of the podium in the final qualifier in Werribee with Syriana, just ahead of New Zealand’s Wendi Williamson in second and McKinnon in third. With this result, the 71-year-old Hanna, who represented Australia at no fewer than six Olympic Games, secured her ticket to Basel, marking her sixth FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final appearance. 

Non-league and FEI Extra starting place

The non-league starting place has been allocated to Renderson Silva de Oliveira (BRA) with Fogoso Campline, as the highest-ranked non-league athlete on the FEI Dressage World Ranking List, based on the application of the Brazilian National Federation. He guided his Lusitano grey to a seventh-place finish in Madrid and an impressive ninth place in a strong field in Neumünster, scoring no less than 76.845%.

The FEI Extra starting place has been assigned, in accordance with the rules, to Jessica Neuhauser (SUI) and Rockson (owned by Hildegard Magdalena Riedmaier), as the highest-scoring athlete from the Western European League, from the host nation across at least two FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifiers.

One thing is certain: Basel will crown a new FEI Dressage World Cup™ champion, as none of the competing combinations have previously claimed the title.

The competition kicks off in Basel on Friday, 4 April, at 13:00 CET. The Freestyle Final on Saturday, 5 April, at 19:30 CET will determine who takes home the FEI Dressage World Cup™ title.

The Definite Entries list for the Longines FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final can be found here

The tension was palpable at the final FEI Dressage World Cup™ Western European League qualifier of the season. In 's-Hertogenbosch, Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale emerged victorious once again, securing their ticket to the Final with a perfect record of three wins out of three appearances. However, her compatriot Becky Moody (GBR) and Jagerbomb came within touching distance. Belgium’s rising star Justin Verboomen (BEL) wowed the crowd and finished in third place.

Fry and Moody dominated in a sold-out arena in 's-Hertogenbosch, going head-to-head in a battle of British excellence. The reigning World Champion Fry edged out her fellow Brit in both tests, delivering a flawless Freestyle performance that scored 89.705%. Having already claimed victories in London and Amsterdam, Fry amassed a total of 60 points, comfortably securing her place at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Basel in three weeks’ time.
Becky Moody and her home-bred Jagerbomb, as well as Belgium’s Justin Verboomen with Zonik Plus, are still uncertain of their Final spots, potentially lacking the necessary points.

Home athletes take a back seat

With many top combinations travelling to 's-Hertogenbosch for the final opportunity to secure points, the start list featured an exceptionally strong field. This left the Dutch home athletes playing a more supporting role, particularly after home favourite Dinja van Liere (NED) withdrew before the Grand Prix. The best Dutch result came from Marlies van Baalen (NED), who, with her home-bred Habibi DVB N.O.P., produced a harmonious Freestyle to harp music, scoring 77.525%. While their test impressed in terms of harmony, they lost points in the walk section.

Belgium, however, made a much bigger impact, with three Belgian athletes finishing in the top seven. Domien Michiels (BEL) and Intermezzo van het Meerdaalhof (owned by Marc Steeno) delivered a faultless Freestyle with soft contact and a powerful canter tour. Larissa Pauluis (BEL) followed with a dynamic and energetic performance aboard Flambeau (owned by Marie Christine Pauluis, Jean Pauluis, Caroline and Emmanuelle Lepage), with deep bass tones resonating through the arena. Scoring 79.895%, Pauluis secured a fifth-place finish and earned enough points to book her place in the Final.

Yet, it was Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus who led the Belgian charge. Following a runner-up finish in Mechelen, the pair impressed again in 's-Hertogenbosch, claiming third place. Their piaffe and passage were breathtaking, and their Freestyle was rewarded with 84.160%. “Already when Zonik Plus was young, I knew he had so much potential. He is a fighter, a winner,” said a slightly reserved Verboomen. Despite his strong performances, he may fall short on points for a Final spot, having only contested two qualifiers.

Basquin and Nowag-Aulenbrock 

The second half of the competition saw scores soar, with fewer mistakes, and ever-more refined technical and artistic execution. Pauline Basquin (FRA) and Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (owned by Institut Français du Cheval et de L’Equitation) added valuable points to their tally following their victory in Madrid, securing their ticket to Basel. Their test was highlighted by lightness and harmony in the trot tour, earning them 78.555% and an eighth place.

Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) and the ever-cheerful Florine OLD (owned by Elisabeth von Wulffen) also clinched their spot in the Final. The striking chestnut mare confidently pranced through the test with ears forward, although marks were lost in the piaffe. Their 78.965% score and sixth-place finish sealed their qualification.

Werth gears up for her 26th Final

Dressage queen Isabell Werth (GER) remains atop the FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings with 75 points. Riding DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer), she had to settle for fourth place this year in 's-Hertogenbosch after winning here in 2024. However, her place in the Final was never in doubt. The German legend is now set to contest her astonishing 26th FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final.

British stars take centre stage

The leading roles in 's-Hertogenbosch, however, belonged to Charlotte Fry and Becky Moody. Fry brought the crowd to its feet. Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Gertjan van Olst) was in outstanding form, showcasing a breathtaking combination of beauty, uphill balance, power, elegance, and harmony. “I don’t get emotional very often, but today when the crowd started clapping and cheering, it just got me,” said Fry, who shed a few tears after her performance.

"Today was going to be our day. Glamourdale rose to the occasion. He is such a showman. Lucky for me, he is perfect in every way: he has the conformation, the character, the determination, the showmanship. I just have to make sure to sit there and make everything look pretty." 

Charlotte Fry

(GBR)

Becky Moody and Jagerbomb (co-owned by Moody and Jo Cooper) delivered a personal best, scoring 87.545%, much to Moody's delight. “I’m so proud of him! He is a truly exceptional horse. His heart is his most talented part: he always gives absolutely everything. I’m so lucky to have him,” she beamed.

All eyes on Basel
Reigning FEI Dressage World Cup™ champion Patrik Kittel finished 11th in ‘s-Hertogenbosch with Forever Young HRH. However, as the defending champion, he is automatically qualified for the Final.

The start list for the 38th FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final will take shape very soon, so don’t miss a hoofbeat…

FULL RESULTS

With an outstanding score of 91.140%, Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour (DEN) and the highly talented Mount St John Freestyle delivered the highest mark of this FEI Dressage World Cup™ season so far. Their brilliant ride secured an overwhelming victory in Gothenburg, in the vast Scandinavium arena. The entire top three achieved personal bests, with Maria von Essen (SWE) claiming second place on home soil with Invoice, and Corentin Pottier (FRA) taking third with Gotilas Du Feuillard.

Laudrup-Dufour left no doubt as to who ruled the weekend, leading by over 10% in the Grand Prix and maintaining an 8% margin in the Freestyle. Her scores with Mount St John Freestyle (owned by Laudrup-Dufour & Zinglersen Aps and Mount St John Equestrian Llp) are unmatched throughout this FEI Dressage World Cup™ season. However, the Danish athlete has no plans to compete in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final: “This was only our second World Cup competition this season, and the next one in ’s-Hertogenbosch comes too soon. Maybe we could go via a Wild Card, but our focus is on the European Championships this summer,” she explained.

Entering the arena as the final combination and the clear favourite for victory, Laudrup-Dufour showed breathtaking piaffe and passage work, and both power and relaxation to secure a top score. The enthusiastic crowd was already cheering before she even began her Freestyle, which, according to Laudrup-Dufour, caused some extra tension in her mare. “It’s wonderful to have the crowd cheering for us; it brings a lot of positivity. But we do need to go in and deliver a high-focused performance.

"Freestyle is absolutely wonderful. A true show woman. I feel we are getting more and more comfortable together; she really starts to trust me.”

Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour

(DEN)

Wonderful End, Tense Start

With personal bests being broken and four combinations scoring over 80%, the competition in Gothenburg concluded on a high note. However, the start of the event was somewhat challenging, as several horses found the Scandinavium’s vibrant atmosphere difficult to handle. The competition truly gained momentum with start number six: Domien Michiels and Intermezzo van het Meerdaalhof (owned by Marc Steeno), the pair that won the FEI Dressage World Cup™ leg in Gothenburg last year. This time, they delivered a technically strong Freestyle to place seventh with 77.430%.

A Family Affair: Husband and Wife Shine in Gothenburg

Camille Judet Cheret (FRA) with Herelja Higgins (owned by Francoise Bourgeois and S.A.S. Pamfou Dressage) and her husband Corentin Pottier (FRA) with Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Maryse Pottier, Herve Pottier, and Camille Judet Cheret) experienced a special weekend in Gothenburg. Having competed in Neumünster last week, both athletes travelled straight to Sweden. Judet Cheret and the diligent Herelja Higgins showcased excellent collected work, finishing ninth, after their eighth place in Neumünster. Pottier, starting later in the field, once again secured third place, just as he had in Neumünster, with the ever-willing and sympathetic Gotilas du Feuillard.
There was even more to celebrate, as Pottier shared: “Two personal bests in a row; I could have never imagined doing this. It is wonderful to compete here together with my wife. We share all our adventures. We live together, we work together, we do everything together, and now with a baby on the way, it makes it even more special.”

Close Competition at the Top

Just before the break, Nanna Skodborg Merrald (DEN) and Blue Hors Znickers (owned by Blue Hors Aps) raised the stakes. After difficulties in the piaffe during the Grand Prix, the duo delivered a much better Freestyle, with the talented, long-legged chestnut moving energetically through the test to earn 79.270%, securing fifth place. Merrald, who won in Neumünster last week with Blue Hors Zepter, appears well on track for her fourth consecutive FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final.

Immediately after the break, the experienced Dorothee Schneider (GER) and First Romance 2 (owned by Gabrielle Kippert) performed a Freestyle with a strong trot tour, although the piaffes could be more secure. A minor mistake in the two-tempi changes on the joker line left them just short of Merrald’s score, finishing with 79.095%.
The third-place finisher from the Grand Prix, Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock, rode the always cheerful mare Florine OLD (owned by Elisabeth von Wulffen) with harmony and an excellent contact throughout the test. While the mare appeared somewhat hurried in the extended gaits, their lovely and soft overall picture earned them high marks. With 80.450%, Nowag-Aulenbrock achieved a personal best, but it was just shy of a podium finish.

Scoring High on Double-Counting Movements

As the penultimate competitor, home favourite Maria von Essen entered the arena with Invoice (owned by Alexanders Hovslageri & Häst Ab). While the compact Invoice could still show more length in the frame, his true strengths lie in the highly collected movements. His effortless piaffe and pirouettes, both double-counting elements, helped secure a high score. “It is just amazing to ride in front of your home audience. With my trainers and family watching, setting this result feels unreal,” von Essen said.

But the best was saved for last. When Laudrup-Dufour and Mount St John Freestyle entered the arena, they brought an unforgettable close to this day filled with personal bests. The FEI Dressage World Cup™ season is now approaching its final leg. On 14 and 15 March, the last leg will take place at The Dutch Masters in ’s-Hertogenbosch. 
Who will secure their ticket to the Final?

Don’t miss a hoofbeat…

Results here

Nanna Skodborg Merrald brought a sense of déjà vu to Neumünster (GER), clinching the FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier victory with Blue Hors Zepter, just as she did two years ago. It was a thrilling showdown with Isabel Freese (NOR) and Total Hope OLD. Freese narrowly won the Grand Prix, but Merrald had the final word in the Freestyle, with 81.465% she secured victory by a mere 0.2%. Completing the podium, Corentin Pottier (FRA) impressed with Gotilas du Feuillard to take third place.

With only two legs remaining in the Western European League before the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, the competition for points is heating up. This weekend’s results caused a shake-up in the standings, with only Gothenburg (SWE) and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED) left on the calendar. Merrald’s triumph, earning her 20 points, propelled her to sixth place on the leaderboard. Valuable points were also gained by Larissa Pauluis (BEL), Isabel Freese, and Raphael Netz (GER), setting up for an exciting finale.

Zepter’s experience and power

Skodborg Merrald has campaigned three different horses this FEI Dressage World Cup™ season but aims to qualify with either Blue Hors Zepter or Blue Hors Don Olymbrio. Which one will go to the Final? “I’m not sure yet. We’ll decide in March when we see who’s in top form,” Skodborg Merrald explained. The Danish rider, runner-up at both the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Finals 2023 in Omaha (USA) and 2024 in Riyadh (KSA), is well-positioned for another shot at the title.

Seventeen-year-old Blue Hors Zepter (owned by Blue Hors Aps) showcased his experience and power, though minor mistakes crept into both tests. “He felt fantastic in the warm-up, so I’m still wondering where those mistakes came from,” Merrald admitted. She shares a deep bond with Zepter:

 

“He’s had several riders before me, and I have huge respect for his career. He’s extremely powerful, very honest and loyal, but also sensitive. Now that he’s older, we don’t want to push him too hard. It’s most important for us that he enjoys his work.”

 

Nanna Skodborg Merrald

(DEN)

 

Silva de Oliveira gets the crowd on their feet

Neumünster’s Holstenhalle, known for its electric atmosphere, was packed to the rafters from the very first combination. The crowd, close to the action, created an intense and unforgettable ambiance. 

One athlete who captured the audience’s hearts and put a smile on everyone’s face was Brazil’s Renderson Silva de Oliveira with Fogoso Campline. Riding a modern Freestyle set to rap and hip-hop, his vibrant performance had the crowd clapping along in the final centerline. He celebrated his 76.845% ninth-place finish with sheer joy, earning a roaring ovation from the crowd.

As the competition progressed, scores climbed steadily. Camille Judet Chéret (FRA) and Herelja Higgins produced an active, but sometimes a bit tensed, test featuring top-quality piaffe and passage, earning a new personal best of 77.905%. Ingrid Klimke (GER), a crowd favorite, followed with the elegant First Class 92 (owned by Gut Hülsen GmbH & Co.KG), scoring 77.100% with a harmonious performance, but the mare slightly struggled with the transitions out of the piaffe. Marieke van der Putten (NED) and Torveslettens Titanium RS2 N.O.P. (owned by Jacques and Saskia Lemmens) then raised the bar to 78.610%, finishing sixth overall. They showed great piaffe and passage, but overall the extensions had room for improvement.

Top 3 finish for Pottier

The final five pairs from the Grand Prix shook up the leaderboard. Corentin Pottier (FRA), aboard Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Hervé Pottier), delivered a polished, error-free Freestyle showcasing Gotilas' remarkable collected work and scored 80.290%. The Paris 2024 Olympian found Neumünster equally thrilling: “The ambiance felt about the same. Riding this close to the audience is incredible. The crowd knows the sport, and you can feel it. A new personal best and a podium finish: I call it a good day,” he said with a broad smile.

Norway’s Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD (owned by Paul Schockemöhle, Oivind Bache, and Lone Boegh-Hendriksen) followed. With three runner-up finishes -London (GBR), Basel (SUI), and Neumünster (GER)- Freese now sits eighth in the overall standings.

Pauluis on her way to her second final

Germany’s best-placed rider for the home crowd was Raphael Netz aboard Great Escape Camelot. Despite placing fifth with 78.665%, he dropped two spots from his Grand Prix top-three finish. Still, he was upbeat: “I am going home with a big smile, today showed everyone that our sport is alive.”

The penultimate rider, Merrald, delivered a compelling performance with Blue Hors Zepter, taking the lead. The suspense remained high until the final competitor: Belgium’s Larissa Pauluis and Flambeau (owned by Caroline Lepage). A finalist in Riyadh last season, Pauluis had scored over 80% twice this season and was eyeing a podium spot. However, a costly mistake in the one-tempi changes on her joker line dropped her to fourth place on 79.715%. Nonetheless, she now moves up to fourth in the overall standings.

With seven nationalities represented in the top 10, Neumünster showcased a wide variety of competitors. The Western European League now heads to Gothenburg (SWE) next week for the penultimate qualifier of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ season, so don’t miss a hoofbeat!

FULL RESULTS

Image: FEI / Stefan Lafrenz

An exceptional field gathered for the eighth FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier in Amsterdam, where the audience offered their first standing ovation even before the first break. Reigning World Champions Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale claimed victory with an impressive 89.840%, but the competition was fierce.

This marked Fry’s second consecutive win in Amsterdam, following last year’s triumph with Glamourdale’s stablemate, Everdale. It was also her second victory in a row with Glamourdale, who had already secured the FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier in London (GBR) last December.

Her compatriot Becky Moody came close with her homebred Jagerbomb (owned by the athlete and Jo Cooper), earning 86.500% to finish second. Meanwhile, Isabell Werth (GER) climbed a spot from the Grand Prix to claim third (85.265%) with DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer), pushing Nanna Skodborg Merrald (DEN) into fourth place (83.070 %).

With her second victory this season, Fry has moved up to 12th in the overall FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings, though she remains undecided about pursuing the final. “We’re taking it step by step. Our main focus this year is the European Championships, and we’re building toward that,” she said.

A strong field of competitors

Even before the break, the audience was on their feet, cheering for the first combinations. With no fewer than nine duos scoring above 80%, the competition in Amsterdam offered plenty to enjoy. Patrik Kittel (SWE) set the tone, earning the first standing ovation with Forever Young HRH (owned by the athlete and Gestüt Peterhof). Dancing to Stevie Wonder’s Isn’t She Lovely, the mare scored 82.560%, securing sixth place and the Harmony & Fairness Award audience prize.

“When the crowd gives you a standing ovation and your horse performs so well, you feel like a little kid — even after all these years in the sport,” laughed the Swedish athlete.

Host nation the Netherlands also sent a strong contingent to their capital. Two of their combinations scored over 80%. Hans Peter Minderhoud and Glock’s Taminiau (owned by Glock Hpc Nl) delivered a freestyle featuring lovely contact and a strong piaffe-passage tour, earning 81.885% for seventh place. World No. 4 Dinja van Liere and the bold chestnut gelding Hartsuijker (owned by Jan Pieter Dalsem) scored 82.645%, finishing fifth. A small mistake in the one-tempis and some tension in the contact kept the pair out of the top three.

“I enjoyed every minute. Hartsuijker is a true pocket rocket. I love him to pieces”

Dinja Van Liere
(NED)

Making their FEI Dressage World Cup™ debut, Ingrid Klimke (GER) and the imposing Vayron NRW (owned by Rudolf Spiekermann) also scored over 80%, finishing ninth with 80.580%. During a hiccup in the extended trot and an error in the one-tempis, the crowd showed their sympathy with a collective sigh of disappointment. Maria von Essen (SWE) and piaffe talent Invoice (owned by Alexanders Hovslageri & Häst Ab) scored just a fraction more with 80.660%.

Nanna Merrald and Blue Hors Don Olymbrio (owned by Blue Hors Aps) dropped a place in the Freestyle compared to the Grand Prix. Last year’s FEI Dressage World Cup™ runner-up in Riyadh (KSA) delivered a faultless freestyle but scored 83.070%, narrowly missing the podium in Amsterdam.

Showman Jagerbomb

Becky Moody and her home-bred Jagerbomb were second in both the Grand Prix and the freestyle. Their Beatles-themed freestyle got the crowd and judges smiling and swaying to the music. Moody made her incredibly complex routine look effortless, with Jagerbomb maintaining beautifully soft in the contact.

The cheerful athlete is confident about the future: “He’s only 11, there is so much more to come! Today, Bomb and I were completely in sync. The crowd was behind us all the way, and Jagerbomb was thinking, Clap harder, guys! He’s such a showman.”

Werth secures third place

In Amsterdam, Isabell Werth’s winning streak this season came to an end. Riding DSP Quantaz, she finished third but was pleased nonetheless.

“In this electric atmosphere, Quantaz stayed very calm. Yesterday, many riders had some mistakes, but today’s freestyle was top-level sport, so I knew I had to stay focused. Apart from a slightly spooky moment at the end, I was very happy,” Werth said.

She remains at the top of the standings with 75 points. With Quantaz, she plans to aim for the Final in Basel (SUI) from 2 to 6 April 2025.

Fry and Glamourdale wow the crowd

There was one combination in Amsterdam that left no doubt about their supremacy: Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses). Gasps of admiration echoed through the crowd during their Freestyle. Fry left nothing to chance, and with just shy of 90%, the victory was hers.

Breathtakingly black, expressive, uphill, and with a good mind, Glamourdale has it all. His 89.840% under Fry secured the win.

“Glamourdale was amazing today. We’ve been working hard at home on some exercises, and that paid off today. I’m thrilled the scores reflect that. He was already incredible, but he keeps getting better. Glammie thrives in arenas like this,”

Charlotte Fry
(GBR)

The next FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier takes place in Neumünster (GER) on 15-16 February, so don’t miss a hoofbeat…

FULL RESULTS

Photo: Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale, winners of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2024/25 leg in Amsterdam (NED)  © FEI / Leanjo de Koster 

With three wins out of three starts, World number one Isabell Werth has rocketed to the top of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Western European League standings. In Basel’s imposing and packed St. Jakobshalle – which will also host the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Finals in April – Werth secured victory in the Freestyle with DSP Quantaz, scoring 83.735.

No fewer than four Swiss combinations competed in Basel (SUI), delighting the home crowd with their Freestyle performances. Jessica Neuhauser and Rockson (owned by Hildegard Magdalena Riedmaier) were the top Swiss finishers, claiming a respectable 10th place with 74.785% in only their third international Grand Prix ever. Representing Switzerland’s neighbouring country Austria, Florian Bacher had a challenging Grand Prix with Fidertraum OLD (owned by Verena Bacher), but bounced back in the Freestyle, earning 75.515%. Their score held firm until after the break and ultimately secured them eighth place. 

Personal Best for Carrascosa

After the break, Borja Carrascosa (ESP) set a new personal best of 78.575% with Sir Hubert NRW (owned by the athlete and Sportpferde Hofmann Gbr). The big chestnut, who also competed in last season’s FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Riyadh (KSA) delivered a powerful test set to vibrant Shakira music. Carina Scholz (GER) and her seasoned partner Tarantino (owned by Sportpferde Scholz) impressed with their piaffe and passage work, but tension in the changes kept them just below Carrascosa's score.

"I want to compete with DSP Quantaz in the Final, and I’m already looking forward to April,

Isabell Werth (GER)

Wandres and Bluetooth OLD Return to Form

As the competition intensified, scores edged toward the 80% mark, but eventually only the top three exceeded it. Frederic Wandres (GER) and Bluetooth OLD secured third place with 83.105%. Both horse and athlete returned to the arena after a well-earned break following the Paris Olympics. “We really needed to recharge our batteries,” explained Wandres. “Last summer was long and demanding with the fight for an Olympic ticket. Our Grand Prix was still a bit conservative, but today in the Freestyle, we were back at our best.” In the freestyle, he left nothing to chance and showed an energetic and harmonious ride. Wandres mentioned that his focus this year will primarily be on the upcoming outdoor season.

Basquin and Netz Evenly Matched

Raphael Netz (GER) with Great Escape Camelot (owned by Sonja Kristina Krall and Therese Boss) and Pauline Basquin (FRA) with Sertorius de Rima Z Ifce (owned by Institut Francais du Cheval Et De L’Equitation) both delivered strong tests but narrowly missed the 80% barrier. Basquin, who previously won the FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier in Madrid, earned the highest score of the two, with 79.825%. Her light-footed Sertorius de Rima Z Ifce showed lovely frame and expression but had a minor error in the one-tempi changes. Netz’s energetic presentation, which also showcased a nice and soft connection, was marred by some tension in the walk, leading them to 79.360%.

Freese Eyes the Final

Although it wasn’t part of her original plan, after her ride in Basel Isabell Freese (NOR) has shifted her focus to the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final with the black stallion Total Hope OLD (owned by Lone Boegh-Hendriksen, Oivind Bache, and Paul Schockemöhle). They delivered a polished Freestyle with exceptional piaffe and passage work and flawless changes. They scored 83.490% to finish second behind Werth. After securing second place in both London and Basel, Freese scored valuable points and has her sights firmly set on the Final. “Everything clicked in London, and again here. The Final is now within reach, and it would be a dream to compete there,” said the Norwegian athlete, who is based in Germany.

Werth Does It Again

Once again, Isabell Werth (GER) emerged victorious. Despite her extensive collection of titles, a win in Basel was missing from her résumé – until now. Riding DSP Quantaz (owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer), Werth previously won the qualifier in Lyon and added another 20 points to her World Cup score today. With Wendy de Fontaine, she won the qualifier in Stuttgart, which means she now shares the lead in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings with Carina Scholz.

Werth’s Freestyle to Bonnie Tyler music was flawless, featuring fluid trot work, superb pirouettes, and clean tempi changes. The athlete was particularly pleased with DSP Quantaz’s relaxed performance. “He’s not the easiest indoor horse as he can get spooked by the advertising boards, but today he was fully focused. I even managed to smile during the test,” joked the World No. 1. Basel also provided a valuable opportunity to familiarise Quantaz with the venue ahead of the Final. “Yes, I want to compete with DSP Quantaz in the Final, and I’m already looking forward to April,” Werth smiled.

The next FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier will take place in Amsterdam on 24-25 January, so don’t miss a hoofbeat…

FULL RESULTS

The final FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier of the year in Mechelen (BEL) turned into an exciting contest between Dutch and Belgian combinations. In the festive arena, the home crowd witnessed Belgian dressage performances of a calibre rarely seen before. Ultimately, it was Dinja van Liere (NED) and Hermès N.O.P. who disrupted the Belgian celebration with a winning score of 83.240% in the Freestyle.

The FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier in Mechelen was the sixth leg of the season and gave the home audience much to cheer for. The excitement started early in the Grand Prix on Saturday, when Justin Verboomen (BEL), World Cup-debutant and first combination of the day, delivered a sensational performance with the only eight-year-old Zonik Plus. They posted an impressive score of over 74%, which held up against even the most experienced athletes, including Olympians Dinja van Liere and Larissa Pauluis (BEL).

Van Liere bounces back in the Freestyle

Dinja van Liere brought her top horse Hermès N.O.P. (owned by Joop van Uytert) to Mechelen. The pair achieved fourth place at the Paris Olympics, but Hermès found the atmosphere in the Mechelen Grand Prix overwhelming, leading to costly mistakes and a fourth-place finish. “In the Grand Prix, we really lost each other,” Van Liere explained. “He was scared and spooked, so it was a difficult ride.”

However, Van Liere restored order in the Freestyle. Despite minor errors in the two-tempis and one pirouette, Hermès appeared far more settled, delivering a relaxed and harmonious performance with outstanding piaffe and passage-work, to claim victory. Their score, though impressive, remained around 5% below their Olympic peak.

A vibrant arena

Mechelen’s arena, with the crowd close to the action and a lively and noisy atmosphere, proved challenging for several horses. Among those who managed to excel was Camille Cheret Judet (FRA), who rode the energetic Herelja Higgins (owned by Francoise Bourgeois and S.A.S. Pamfou Dressage) to a score of 76.295%, finishing eighth. Belgian Olympian Domien Michiels raised the bar further with Intermezzo van het Meerdaalhof (owned by Marc Steeno), delivering a precise and correct Freestyle for 77.305% and sixth place.

Belgian pride: Pauluis shines

Belgium’s Larissa Pauluis, riding her Olympic partner Flambeau, gave a near-flawless performance in the Freestyle. Their expressive freestyle with well-fitting rhythmical music earned them a score of 79.920%, securing third place. Reflecting on her horse’s development, Pauluis said,

“It’s taken me years to get where we are today, and he keeps improving. In the beginning of our career, he was very difficult to ride in the double bridle, but the contact keeps getting better. I’m so proud of him.”

Larissa Pauluis

(BEL)

 A rising star: Verboomen and Zonik Plus

The most memorable moment of the weekend came from Justin Verboomen and his own Zonik Plus. Competing in just their second international Grand Prix and their first World Cup competition, the pair delivered a standout performance. After winning the Grand Prix on Saturday, they scored a sensational 81.730% in the Freestyle, finishing second.

Verboomen discovered Zonik Plus as a 2.5-year-old in Portugal and has since developed him into a rising star. The stallion already has impressive achievements under his belt, including sixth place in the six-year-old finals at the Longines FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. Now, he looks poised to become a world-class competitor.

Reflecting on his journey together with the talented stallion, Verboomen said, “It’s been an incredible journey, and his best years are still ahead of him. He’s such a generous horse, full of courage and always in a good mood.”

Final highlights

Dorothee Schneider (GER), the last athlete in the Freestyle, also delivered a strong performance with her Grand Prix star Dayman (owned by Lian-United GmbH). After placing third in the Grand Prix, they had errors in the one-tempis and one piaffe in the Freestyle, earning 77.325% for fifth place. Schneider was narrowly surpassed by Corentin Pottier (FRA) and Gotilas du Feuillard (owned by Maryse Pottier, Herve Pottier and Camille Judet Cheret), whose harmonious and error-free performance earned 77.340% and fourth place.

Borja Carrascosa (ESP), fifth in the Grand Prix, slipped down two places after the Freestyle. Riding the elegant stallion Frizzantino FRH (owned by the athlete and Alexander Brenninkmeijer), he earned 76.985%, with slight mistakes in the extended trot and some transitions affecting their score.

Looking ahead

With Van Liere now fourth in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings after her Mechelen victory, she is eyeing a spot in the Finals but is yet to decide which horse she will take: Hartsuijker or Hermès N.O.P. 

The next leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ is scheduled for Basel (SUI), on January 2025, so don’t miss a hoofbeat…

FULL RESULTS

The wonderful venue at London’s ExCeL centre was transformed into a Christmas wonderland, extending to the crowd’s lively enthusiasm. Spectators clapped along to the music during the final lines of many routines, and Fry’s home performance alongside Glamourdale (owned by the athlete and Van Olst Horses) drew the loudest cheers. “I cannot thank the audience enough for their support,” Fry said. “Not just now, but also throughout our journey to Paris and during the Olympic Games. It’s emotional to be riding here in England again.”

Van Liere sets the bar high

Earlier tonight, Dinja van Liere (NED) had set the bar high with an energetic freestyle aboard the chestnut gelding Hartsuijker (owned by Jan Pieter Dalsem). The Dutch athlete delivered a precise routine free of errors, with the passage, flying changes, and pirouettes particularly shining. Her 80.225% score elevated her from sixth in the Grand Prix to third in the Freestyle rankings.

Fellow Dutch athlete Marieke van der Putten rode Torveslettens Titanium RS2 N.O.P. (owned by Jacques Lemmens and Saskia Lemmens-Reijnen) directly after the break, but couldn’t catch up with Van Liere’s score: their polished piaffe- and passage tour made them finish seventh with 77.615%. Their Dutch compatriot Hans Peter Minderhoud and Glock’s Toto Jr. (owned by Glock Hpc NL B.V. and Nicole Werner) did not surpass the 80% they achieved earlier this season in Lyon. The duo settled for sixth place with 78.900%.

Nanna Skodborg Merrald (DEN) also displayed technical precision aboard the active Blue Hors St. Schufro. Despite a spirited ride, the black stallion could settle down a bit more in the environment. They scored 79.910% for fifth place.
High expectations for Moody and Jagerbomb

The crowd’s anticipation peaked when Becky Moody (GBR) entered the arena with her home-bred gelding Jagerbomb. Smiling broadly, Moody began her Beatles-themed freestyle with high expectations after their Grand Prix win. However, her smile faded when Jagerbomb faltered in the canter pirouette, breaking into trot while riding out and taking a moment to recover. Despite this, they delivered a lovely trot tour, with their beautiful connection and steady contact earning them 80.160% and fourth place. 

Isabel Freese (NOR), riding Total Hope OLD, entered the arena as the last competitor. The black stallion has an extraordinary pedigree: sired by Totilas and out of Isabell Werth’s former champion Weihegold OLD. Their piaffe and passage were executed with metronomic precision, and despite an error in the two-tempi changes, the pair’s dynamic Sher-freestyle earned them a personal best of 83.270% and second place. 

“This exceeds all my expectations,” said an emotional Freese after the ride. “I am so proud. It has always been a dream to compete here. I’ve just been eight weeks out of the saddle after a surgery, which made this result even more special. My groom took exceptional care of Total Hope, and perhaps the break was beneficial for both of us. He is in fantastic form.”

Van Liere was equally pleased with her ride on Hartsuijker. “He felt amazing, though he was a bit tense during the warm-up due to the noise. But once we entered the arena, he settled and gave me a wonderful ride,” she reflected.

Glamourdale Feels Like Flying

It was, however, Charlotte Fry who had the most to celebrate. The reigning World Champion and Olympic bronze medallist was competing in London for the first time since the Olympic Games in Paris. After mistakes in the double-counting pirouettes during the Grand Prix, Fry was focused on delivering a flawless Freestyle. The 28-year-old guided the imposing Glamourdale through their ‘Best of Britain’ freestyle, set entirely to British songs, which delighted the home crowd. Glamourdale’s piaffe and passage were rhythmic and light, and his canter tour, as always, was breathtaking. A minor error in the one-time changes and a touch of tension in the two-time changes were mere blips in an otherwise stellar performance. Their score of 86.645% was more than enough to secure victory.

“This was the perfect end to the year for Glammie and me,” Fry beamed after the prize-giving ceremony. “It’s a feeling I’ve never experienced before. He was absolutely on fire, and performing like this on home soil is incredible. Riding him feels like flying.” Fry revealed that Glamourdale had enjoyed a short holiday after Paris before being trained up again with London in mind. “He was a little tense yesterday when we entered the arena, but his excitement is a good thing. He’s fresh and still improving,” she explained. Looking ahead, Fry remains undecided about her plans for the rest of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ season.

The next FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier takes place in Mechelen, Belgium, on 28-29 December. So don’t miss a hoofbeat…

FULL RESULTS