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The FEI has officially confirmed the qualified nations of the second edition of the Longines League of NationsTM, with the top 10 ranked nations set to compete in the world’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian team Jumping competition.
Nine nations have qualified again for the 2025 edition: Ireland, France, USA, Great Britain, Belgium, Switzerland, Netherlands, Sweden, and reigning champions Germany, who already secured their place by winning the Longines League of NationsTM Final 2024 in Barcelona (ESP).
The standout news for the 2025 edition is the qualification of Italy, that claimed the final spot in the ranking, securing 10th place and replacing Brazil, that dropped out of the top 10. Just missing out on qualification was Canada, finishing 11th, only 633 points behind Italy after a months-long battle for the final slot. Despite their efforts, the Canadians could not surpass the Italians in the ranking.
"The Longines League of NationsTM is the pinnacle of the FEI team Jumping competitions worldwide. For the second consecutive year, we’ll see the top nations compete for a place in the Final in Barcelona. The competition's strength lies in bringing together the finest human and equine Jumping athletes on the world stage and we're looking forward to the start of the new season in Abu Dhabi." Todd Hinde, FEI Jumping Director said.
Marco di Paola, President of the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation (FISE), showed his satisfaction with the qualification of Italy; "We are proud that our athletes, after an intense sporting season, have succeeded in qualifying Italy for the Longines League of NationsTM 2025. We extend our gratitude to our athletes, their horses, the supportive owners and the national team coach for this prestigious accomplishment. We have returned to the top of the sport, and equestrian fans will have the chance to cheer on the Italian national team in the most prestigious events of the 2025 international Jumping season".
The Longines League of NationsTM 2025 will feature four qualifying legs and only the top eight ranked teams will advance to the Longines League of NationsTM Final.
Longines League of NationsTM Ranking Top 10
Ireland – 14,538 points
France – 13,503 points
USA – 13,128 points
Great Britain – 12,712 points
Germany – 12,311 points
Belgium – 12,128 points
Switzerland – 11,643 points
Netherlands – 11,625 points
Sweden – 10,629 points
Italy – 10,403 points
Full Longines League of NationsTM Ranking here
Notes to editor: According to the Articles 2.2 and 2.3 of the Longines League of NationsTM Rules, “as from 2024, the Longines League of NationsTM Ranking will be based upon the regular monthly Longines Ranking that is published after the conclusion of the LLN Final of the respective season (each a “Qualification Ranking”). The Qualification Ranking used for qualification for the LLN will be calculated based on the combined points of each NF’s 6 best Athletes of which at least 1 must be an U25 Athlete on the Longines Ranking.”
Richard Vogel (GER) on United Touch S flew to victory in the FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifier in Lyon (FRA) this evening, wowing the crowd in the process. Vogel modestly gave all credit to his horse, United Touch S as he finished his jump-off round, gesturing to his partner, signaling to the crowd that it was United Touch S’s talent that made the win possible. “He was exceptional from the first round,” Vogel said, “Especially on the second jump, he showed his incredible skill.
“I’m thrilled we could pull this off today.”
Richard Vogel (GER)
The competition was fierce, and the local contingent brought strong performances in front of their home crowd at Eurexpo Arena as - with fifteen French contenders in the field - two pushed their way into the jump-off. Julien Anquetin (FRA), known for his speed, was the first rider to qualify. Riding Blood Diamond du Pont, he took fourth place, while Cedric Hurel (FRA) and Fantasio Floreval Z secured sixth. Anquetin was pleased, despite the challenge: “I entered the arena knowing that there were strong riders behind me, so I knew I had to be fast. They were just faster than me today. I need to work harder to be faster. But, above all, this is my first time clear in the Grand Prix, so I am really pleased. It is incredible to have a good result here.”
The course, designed by Grégory Bodo (FRA), tested every rider’s ability to balance speed with technique. A challenging 14-obstacle course demanded a deft touch, and Bodo’s tight time allowed of 78 seconds kept the athletes well focused. In a bold move, Vogel cut an incredible shortcut to the oxer, securing his place in the jump-off. “For many horses, this would be risky,” Vogel admitted, “but United has a lot of scope. I knew this line would save me significant time, which I could use elsewhere on the course” Confident before re-entering for the jump-off, Vogel said, “My horse is in good form and can cut corners well. We’re going to be competitive.” And the pair didn’t disappoint.
Harrie Smolders (NED) was all respect for Vogel, taking second place with his Olympic horse Monaco N.O.P. “This top five here is so close,” he remarked. “The level of competition today is incredibly high. Monaco N.O.P. is a once-in-a-lifetime horse. He loves to be second. Second in the Grand Prix here last Friday and today second in the World Cup. This could not have been better. It was a very strong field this week and it makes me so proud of my horse.”
Eduardo Alvarez Aznar (ESP) was clear about his plan before the jump-off: to win. “I have a fast horse (Legend), and I’m going to try to win.” With a difference of less than 0.26 seconds from the winner, he had to settle for third place, which he did with great sportsmanship: “I have a fast horse, but two others were faster.”
After this third qualifier, Gregory Wathelet (BEL) leads the standings with 32 points, followed by Yuri Mansur (BRA) with 25. Kevin Staut (FRA) and Steve Guerdat (SUI) each hold 24 points, while Smolders follows closely with 23.
As the series moves to Verona, Italy, on November 10, Vogel will skip this leg but has his sights set on Stuttgart. Leaving Lyon in high spirits, he shared his season’s ambition: “The FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final is my goal this season, and I couldn’t have asked for a better start.”
Dries Degrieck’s (BEL) quest to top the podium at a FEI Driving World Cup™ seems promising after a powerful performance at the 30th Longines Equita Lyon (FRA).
As the winner of Saturday’s opening two-round competition, the Belgian was last to go in Sunday’s second competition because the drivers start in reverse order of their results, last to first. Despite adding four penalties to his time in Sunday’s first round, he was quick enough to secure the lowest score and take one of the three drive-off places – and have the advantage of watching his rivals while he waited. When he entered the arena for the final drive-off and picked up the pace, his four horses - Hunter, Leon, Kane B and Big Star - responded by streamlining themselves to speed through the course in front of a near-capacity crowd and go clear in the weekend’s fastest time of 146.36. As well as securing the valuable win, he earned a maximum ten points for the series ranking table.
Dries said afterwards,
“It’s the third time we have driven here in Lyon and the crowd is fantastic and really helps us. I still have a few young horses in my team and my father has been driving them during the summer. They are a bit smaller and more compact and go faster than the big ones!”
Dries Degrieck(BEL)
Keeping the pressure on Dries was the host nation’s wild card Benjamin Aillaud (FRA), driving the same Lusitano horses he uses for outdoor competitions. Although he is not one of the qualified drivers in this series, he and his team produced smooth rounds for a third place in the first competition and second on Sunday to finish on 152.23. The home crowd was delighted to have one of their own to cheer on and he rewarded their support with suave driving.
One of the most experienced competitors on the circuit, Jérôme Voutaz (SUI), was a favourite to win ahead of the opening weekend. He and his Swiss horses showed early promise with a fast, clear round on Saturday morning but his more cautious approach in the initial drive-off meant he dropped behind Dries into second. On Sunday, his clear first round in a decent time ensured a place in the drive-off but the pressure took its toll as he knocked two balls to add eight to his time to finish third on 158.16. But because Benjamin is not a qualified driver, Jérôme took the seven points earned from a second place for the ranking table.
Although he just missed out on Sunday’s drive-off, Anthony Horde (FRA), who was another wild card, held his own amid cheers from the home crowd. Obviously enjoying being part of the event, he improved on his sixth position from Saturday morning to finish fourth on Sunday after going clear in 156.95.
There were two Germans in the lineup – Georg von Stein went from seventh to fifth (162.10) and Anna Mareike Meier went from fifth to sixth (163.54) between Saturday and Sunday, but as qualified drivers both earned ranking points, as did Dutch Driving legend Ijsbrand Chardon. His first day went well for a fourth place but on day two, he didn’t show his usual fearsome form and knocked four balls to end seventh (178.79).
Jeroen Houterman’s (NED) course was ideal for one of the early events in the series with open obstacles and flowing lines which enabled the horses to move forward freely and maintain their rhythm. The route remained the same for all four rounds, which is unusual because in most drive-offs, one or two gates are dropped which means the drivers must navigate a different course. Another variation in Lyon was that all seven competitors came forward for the first day’s drive-off and the scores from both rounds were added together for the places. In contrast, for competition two on Sunday only the top three from the first round qualified for the drive-off and their previous scores were zeroed.
The second leg will be next weekend in Maastricht (NED) and promises to be another compelling contest as the current world champion Bram Chardon (NED) lines up against perennial champion Boyd Exell (AUS) and the formidable Koos de Ronde (NED).
Dries and his horses will have a few weeks off before their next appearance at the fourth leg in Stockholm (SWE) at the end of November but this weekend, they made the perfect start to their quest to reach the final in Bordeaux (FRA).
For more information - FEI Driving World Cup™ - Season 2024-2025 | FEI
In Thursday’s Grand Prix, the competition was intense among the top three contenders, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish in the second leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Western European League in Lyon (FRA). The suspense held until the very last moment, but it was Germany’s world number one, Isabell Werth, who triumphed with DSP Quantaz tonight, delivering a stunning Freestyle performance that scored 84.70%.
Of the top three from the Grand Prix, France's Pauline Basquin was the first to enter the arena. The audience cheered her on even before she began, but her partner, Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE (owned by Institut Français Du Cheval Et De L’Équitation), remained unfazed. Light-footed and elegant, the duo danced to 81.915%, setting a new personal record.
Directly after her, second-placed Grand Prix finisher, defending FEI Dressage World Cup™ Champion Patrik Kittel, entered with Touchdown (owned by Sommarkvarn AB). The Swede delivered a flawless performance with his thrilling James Bond-themed freestyle, especially shining in the canter section. He scored 81.975%, edging just a few hundredths of a percentage point ahead of Basquin. Werth entered the arena last and emerged victorious with a commanding lead. Riding DSP Quantaz—owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer—Werth delivered an outstanding freestyle, showcasing precision and focus. In the midst of an extended canter, however, Quantaz spooked, and Werth expressed how pleased she was with how Quantaz managed to regain his composure and finish strongly.
“He was extremely focused today. For the first time, he waited for me with each movement. Two years ago, I’d have never had him back with me so quickly after a disruption like that, but now I did,” she said, seeing the positive side. For Werth, it was her seventh FEI Dressage World Cup™ victory in Lyon.
Rankings Shaken Up
Although the top three positions held steady, there were shifts in the Lyon rankings following the Grand Prix. Before the break, Dutch rider Hans Peter Minderhoud set an impressive benchmark aboard the black stallion Glock’s Toto Jr. (owned by Glock HPC Nl B.V.). Riding to a medley of French chansons, Minderhoud captivated both the French audience and the judges. Scoring 80.04%, he and Glock’s Toto Jr.—his Olympic partner from Paris—held the lead as the only combination breaking the 80% mark for a considerable time.
German rider Sönke Rothenberger took to the arena after Minderhoud, delivering a strong performance with his always-eager partner, Fendi (owned by Rothenberger Im Gestüt Erlenhof OHG). Their score of 78.865% was just shy of Minderhoud’s, but Rothenberger’s precise ride kept him firmly in the top ranks. Meanwhile, Dinja van Liere, riding her elegant chestnut Hartsuijker (owned by Jan Pieter Dalsem), faced a minor setback. After placing fifth in the Grand Prix, the Dutch world number three dropped to sixth in the freestyle, her score of 77.485% reflecting a costly mistake in the one-time changes in her first FEI Dressage World Cup™ leg of the season.
Belgium’s Larissa Pauluis, with Flambeau (owned by Caroline Lepage, Emmanuel Lepage, Jean Pauluis, and Marie Christine Pauluis), also slipped slightly in the ranking. The 14-year-old gelding, part of the Belgian team heading to Paris, showed signs of distraction in the freestyle, leading to a few errors and a final seventh-place finish.
Dressage Thrives in France
Werth noted the growing enthusiasm for Dressage in France, where the Olympics at home have undoubtedly played a role.
“Dressage is alive here this year; it’s wonderful to see this enthusiasm growing. Every year I come to Lyon, I see that the number of visitors has grown.
Now it was even a full house with the ambiance of a football stadium.”
Isabell Werth (GER)
Runner-up Patrik Kittel (SWE) also received enthusiastic support from the French audience. He expressed his satisfaction with the competition in Lyon: “To be honest, I was very happy with my horse. We have been working on the self-carriage since Paris, and I think he improved a lot.” Following his start in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ leg in Herning two weeks ago and today’s ride in Lyon, Kittel, as defending champion, is now assured a place at the Final in Basel next year.
Basquin Brings the Audience to Its Feet
Home favourite Pauline Basquin (FRA), riding in the uniform of the French Cadre Noir, received the warmest support from the audience and a standing ovation. Just like last year in Lyon, she finished third. “I’m very happy today. Since Paris, we haven’t competed, and to score two personal bests here after a three-month break is fantastic. I’m delighted with our third place, even though we were so very close to second,” she said.
The action continues in Stuttgart in two weeks’ time, where the next round of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Western European League 2024/25 takes place on 15-16 November.
So don’t miss a hoofbeat…
Ten top four-in-hand drivers plus a few wild cards will thrill audiences between November and February at some of Europe’s most prestigious indoor shows. The eight qualifying legs start in Lyon (FRA) this week and end in Leipzig (GER), leading to six places at the final in Bordeaux (FRA).
The 23rd series promises to be another epic contest between Bram Chardon (NED) and Boyd Exell (AUS). Boyd is ranked number one and has a record breaking ten FEI Driving World Cup™ titles behind him, but Bram is the current title-holder and since he took his first in 2019, the rivals have won it alternate years. It will be fascinating to see who gains the early advantage when they go head-to-head for the first time this series at the second leg in Maastricht (NED).
Bram and his father Ijsbrand Chardon (NED), a three-time winner, are juggling their schedules so that they are not at the same events until the end of the series, when Bram says they should have their horse combinations organised for the final – providing they both qualify.
“This season we are really happy with the draw because we have chosen to go to separate events for most of the series so we can help each other out if we need to or keep up the training at home while the other one is away". It’s exciting, because I have two new horses to add to my winning team from last year, plus the young horse we used in the prizegivings. One of the new horses is very fast but it is hard to find a better horse than our reliable Dreef Kapitany because he is technically so good. I will try out different combinations during the rounds and see what works by the time we get to Leipzig." – Bram Chardon (NED)
Belgium’s Dries Degrieck will hope to replicate the form he showed in Leipzig last January when he broke the Boyd-Bram stronghold to win. His campaign starts in Lyon, which without Boyd or Bram there, could be one of the most open results of the series. Joining Dries are Ijsbrand, Jérôme Voutaz (SUI), Georg Von Stein (GER) and Anna Mareike Meier (GER) plus the home nation’s two wild cards, Benjamin Aillaud (FRA) and Anthony Horde (FRA).
Another Belgian with high hopes is Glenn Geerts who recently put together a new indoor team of French and Hungarian Lipizzaners ahead of his opening event in Maastricht. The second leg is also the opener for former champion Koos de Ronde (NED) who starts the series ranked number two.
After his successful outdoor season, Florida based Chester Weber (USA) finished in the top 10, so was eligible to join the series, but for logistical reasons declined to take his place. Instead, 11th ranked Fredrik Persson (SWE) enters as a qualified driver and he will be using the indoor horses purchased from Chester that were used in the 2022-2023 series.
The selection of events used for the FEI Driving World Cup™ has remained the same since the pandemic, and Bordeaux has been the venue for the final on ten occasions since the series began in 2001-2002. The three early season legs in Lyon, Maastricht and Stuttgart (GER) are on consecutive weekends, then there is a gap before the mid-season action moves to Stockholm (SWE), followed by Geneva (SUI) and London (GBR). In December, it’s Mechelen (BEL) then Leipzig in January, after which the drivers who have qualified for the final are confirmed.
The qualifying legs have two competitions which run over two days, each with a drive-off, whereas the Final only has a drive-off after the second competition. The places from the first competition set the running order for the next day when the drivers come forward in reverse order. Points towards the final are earned from the second competition placings and only apply to the qualified drivers. There are five qualified drivers per competition plus up to three wild cards, and the best three results from the series as a qualified driver count towards the ranking for the Final.
The FEI Driving World Cup™ requires a unique collaboration between the horses and the three people on the carriage. The whole team needs intuitive communication which hinges on the reflexes of the driver and the responses of the horses, supported by the two people behind. The navigator oversees the routes and split times, and the lower back-stepper provides ballast and aims to keep the carriage level on the tight turns.
The format encourages participation from the fans as they cheer on their favourites against a backdrop of theatrical lighting and thumping music.
The audiences appreciate the skill and jeopardy of four powerful horses speeding through pairs of cones, boxes, marathon obstacles and water, or even over bridges, while trying not to knock any of the elements and be fastest against the clock. Each event has its own unique atmosphere with a different sized arena that impacts the design and the layout of the course. After all the preparation and planning, training and travelling, on the day it comes down to split-second decisions, teamwork, bravery, focus and accuracy – and a bit of luck.
For dates, schedules and information, click HERE
The 23rd edition of the FEI Jumping World Challenge took centre stage last weekend at the Universal Jumping Stables in Tashkent’s scenic Bostanlik district (UZB), drawing competitors from 12 countries and four continents. Representing the spirit of FEI Solidarity, 20 athletes, many experiencing their first international event, gathered to vie for the title and international victory, but ultimately Uzbekistan took the honours, marking a significant milestone in not only their own book, but in the competition's.
Host nation Uzbekistan claims historic victory
For the first time in FEI Jumping World Challenge Final history, the host nation emerged victorious in both the Final and Farewell classes, to the thrill of local fans new and old. Mirzahid Musaev clinched the Final with Casamira, while Akbar Sharipov took the Farewell class on La Blue Rouge, with both athletes delivering the only double clear rounds of the day.
The Final’s jump-off saw four competitors vying for the top spot after securing their first clear rounds. Top qualifier, Dominican Republic’s Giorgia Anna Ieromazzo Latour and Jangcy L, set the fastest jump-off time, but an unlucky pole ultimately handed Musaev the victory, underscoring the skill required in the Challenge and the exciting nature of the competition.
Mirzahid Musaev reflects on an emotional win
At 36, Musaev’s Olympic aspirations are strong, fortified by his first international win for his country. Musaev praised the event's organisation - a sentiment echoed by all competitors - and highlighted the demanding nature of the competition, which necessitated creating a winning bond with an unfamiliar mount, the 7-year-old Dutch Sporthorse mare Casamira, over what amounts to only a few hours of acclimatisation.
Feeling very emotional on his win, he spoke to the wonderful team camaraderie and support from his fellow nationals, emphasising that the opportunity to compete against other countries and win for Uzbekistan's honour is a great privilege, and one he hopes to recreate.
Podium placements highlight international talent, global growth, and FEI Solidarity success
The Final’s second-place position was secured by the Dominican Republic’s Latour, last year’s runner-up and 2019 winner, who won both qualifiers with Jangcy L, a Westphalian mare. South Africa’s Victoria Lynne Greyvensteyn, a debut international competitor at just 17 years old, took third with Polish gelding Jodcasall A-Z while her compatriot Divan Bosman, 18, earned bronze in the Farewell class, with Singapore’s 21-year-old Christie Paige Nair taking silver in that class.
These achievements exemplify FEI Solidarity’s efforts to develop young riders on an international stage, fostering competitive growth and excellence in equestrian sports worldwide.
FEI Jumping World Challenge: a gateway for emerging equestrian talent
Since its inception in 2001 under the Solidarity Fund, the FEI Jumping World Challenge Final has fostered accessible, high-level competition for athletes from countries where international sport is not easily accessible, creating opportunities for travel, learning, and honing international competition skills. The event’s continued success relies on the dedication of the FEI, national federations, the horse owners who generously lend their talented equines, and the invaluable friendships formed along the way.
Catch the replays on FEI.tv, and join us in anticipation of the 2025 season as the FEI Jumping World Challenge continues to champion equestrian excellence worldwide.
Robert Whitaker (GBR) and Vermento won the second leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Western European League 2024/2025 in Helsinki (FIN). With ease he dominated the competition in the Finnish capital, while Kevin Staut (FRA) and Dialou Blue PS took second place while Steve Guerdat (SUI) and Is-Minka came in third.
It was an afternoon full of agility, control and focus at the Helsinki Ice Hall. Jorge Guilherme (BRA) designed a course with 13 jumps, with a total of 16 efforts. In one word, it was tight. Short turns and lines demanded full focus.
13 athletes make it to the jump-off
Although this course was challenging, way more athletes made it to the jump-off than last week in Oslo (NOR). Out of the 39 athletes, 13 advanced to the jump-off. To compare: last week, there were four out of 40.
Amanda Landeblad (SWE) and For Killy had the honour of discovering how fast the jump-off could be completed. As the first of the 13 athletes qualified for the jump-off, she started the fight for qualification points. Beforehand, she had given herself a stern pep talk. “I don’t ride fast jump-offs, but I have decided to do so now,” she said with a smile. She kept her word. From the first moment the rhythm was there, and with short turns she completed the course faultlessly in 38.89 seconds. This was enough for seventh place.
When the third athlete in the jump-off, Steve Guerdat, entered the ring the other athletes watched the master at work. He has already won the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final three times, with three different horses (Albfuehren's Paille in Las Vegas (USA) 2015; Corbinian in Göteborg (SWE) 2016; Alamo in Göteborg 2019). With great control and overview, he steered Is-Minka faultlessly around. The new time to beat was 37.56, almost one and a half seconds faster than Landeblad. Although he could have been even faster, if he had ridden tighter in the turn from the first to the second obstacle.
Whitaker rode with his stallion Vermento. Because of his size, he wasn’t expected to be the fastest horse, but he proved to be the most agile one. He gained metres throughout the jump-off by turning short, especially in the turn to the FEI vertical. He clocked a time of 36.84 seconds. And made it even harder for the athletes who followed.
Kevin Staut and Dialou Blue PS rode smartly, flew through the double jump and gained time with that. It turned out to be enough for the second place. ‘Number two’ seems to be Staut favourite position lately. And the French athlete is completely fine with it: “We have now finished second three times in a row,” Staut said, referring to Oslo one week ago and Barcelona (ESP) at the beginning of this month. “I prefer to be second three times than taking a risk and winning one time and then maybe having to miss the next competition.”
Claiming qualification points
Mario Stevens (GER), who has been competing with his partner Starissa FRH since June 2021, played it safe. It resulted in a clear but relatively slow round. With 40.10 seconds, he finished eighth.
Edouard Schmitz (SUI), the athlete who took second place last week in Oslo, was now determined to bring home a few more points for the World Cup Final in Basel (SUI), but he ended up disappointed with his own performance. He and Gamin van’t Naastveldhof had one fence down on the second combination and went home empty-handed. “But this is not the end of the world,” he said afterwards, referring to the 12 more legs remaining.
Provisional standings
Steve Guerdat, on the other hand, is doing good business when it comes to claiming qualification points: “I have a few (5) points from last week in Oslo, and good points today (15). Now it’s up to me to secure my qualification for the Final soon.”
After this second leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ - Western European League 2024/25 the standings are as following: Yuri Mansur (BRA) leads on 25 points, while Kevin Staut (24 points) and Peder Fredricson (SWE - 21 points), are second and third respectively, followed by Gregory Wathelet (BEL), Robert Whitaker and Steve Guerdat, each with 20 points.
On to the next leg in Lyon
The next leg takes place on 3 November in Lyon (FRA), followed by Verona (ITA) and Stuttgart (GER). Whether Whitaker will be in Lyon next Sunday isn’t sure. “I will discuss my schedule with the Chef d’Equipe. Personally, I prefer Madrid (ESP) and A Coruña (ESP) in December. It seems good to me to jump two shows in a row.”
What’s already certain is that the British athlete is more than happy for now. “Vermento was amazing. He looked ahead to every fence. I think our round yesterday helped him. Then we had a fence down. He is a horse that doesn’t want to make mistakes, so I think that made him extra sharp today. He gave me the chance to guide him to victory”.
Image: Robert Whitaker (GBR) and Vermento winners of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ in Helsinki (FIN). ©FEI/ Hanna M. Heinonen Photography
Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) has always known that Major Tom had every quality he could want in an equine partner. But channeling the horse's brimming talent was a work in process.
His patience with the 11-year-old chestnut paid off with a stellar victory Saturday night at the Prince George's Equestrian Center, as they bested a five-horse jump-off in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Washington (USA). First to return over Nick Granat's (USA) short course, the pair produced a round that simply couldn't be matched. Not only could no one match their time, but only one other competitor could manage to keep all the rails up—defending champion, Katie Dinan (USA).
Pessoa's winning time was 38.77 seconds. After winning the 2023 event with Brego R'n B, Dinan finished second on this occasion with a newer mount in Out of the Blue SCF (40.27s). Kristen Vanderveen secured third with Bull Run's Jireh. After her stirrup fell back behind Vanderveen's saddle, the pair brought a single rail down when crossing the timers in 39.63 seconds.
"Going first is always a little bit difficult, but on the other hand, you make your plan and you try to stick to it, and I think I did that pretty well [tonight]." Pessoa said. "I'm really pleased that we came out on top today."
Clear rounds were hard to come by. Granat's first round course featured no fewer than three verticals set at maximum height, with another trio just centimeters lower. With the rounded shape of the arena, questions came up quickly, challenging even the most experienced of combinations, including Olympic veterans Laura Kraut (USA) and Baloutinue and Shane Sweetnam (IRL) and James Kann Cruz. It was no problem, however for Pessoa and Major Tom, who navigated the track with an eye-opening level of poise and precision. Confidence brimming, their mastery of the evening carried over to the short course, where they never appeared rushed while setting an uncatchable standard.
"I knew that it was always possible to go faster, but I was happy with [my horse's] performance, and I knew I was going to be right there or thereabouts," Pessoa said.
"Of course, looking back, I was a second-and-a-half behind, and I could have easily in some ways made that up," Dinan said. "For sure, I'm still in a relationship-building phase with [my] horse, and I was thrilled with my double-clear. To be second behind Rodrigo—I'll take that!"
While Dinan has been partnered with "Bridie" for a year, Pessoa has ridden Major Tom for four. He attributed their success to a newfound level of relaxation and maturity for his mount. Major Tom was highly touted as a young horse in Europe under the tutelage of Michael Duffy (IRL) when Philippe Guerdat (SUI) brought the horse to Pessoa's attention.
"He always showed a lot of quality...but he's very, very sensitive, and so we've taken extra time [with him] and didn't want to push him as a 9-year-old. We really took it easy," Pessoa said. "I really feel that now he's getting more and more relaxed."
"The jump was always there, but his mind was always [going] 200 miles per hour. Now he's taking his time and taking deep breaths everywhere and can really rely on his quality. He's one of the best horses I've ever had, but he really needed that time to get in his own space and be more comfortable."
-Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA)
This marked Major Tom's second time competing at the venue after making his debut at Washington in 2022 with a single knockdown.
"He's more comfortable outside, because he has a very big stride," Pessoa said, "but it was part of the plan to come here, to [practice] inside a little bit."
Kent Farrington (USA) continues to lead the NAL standings. After winning in Traverse City with Greya, he finished seventh at Washington with 9-year-old Myla; he now has 30 points. Daniel Bluman (ISR) sits second with 27 points, followed by Vanderveen (USA).
Some of the best young Eventing horses in the world came forward to compete at this year’s edition of the FEI WBFSH Eventing World Breeding Championships for Young Horses. A British bred son of the legendary Chilli Morning and a Holsteiner mare by ‘I’m Special de Muze’, took the seven- and six-year-old titles at this prestigious Eventing championships, which took place at the 39th edition at Le Lion d’Angers (FRA) this week.
British combinations took the gold and silver medals in the seven-year-old class with Chilli Morning IV and Gemma Stevens (GBR) finishing on his Dressage score of 26.2 and the British bred Anglo European horse Kantango - sired by Tangelo and ridden by Kitty King - taking second place on his Dressage score of 27.9.
In the six-year-old class, Killer Queen lived up to her namesake and won the championship with Merel Blom-Hulsman (NED). The eye-catching mare by this popular sire finished on their Dressage score of 25.1, while Norway van De Haar, a KWPN gelding by High Shutterfly took the runner up spot with Max Warburton (GBR) on their Dressage score of 28.8. The bronze medals went to Mr Cookie Time and Samantha Lissington (NZL) in the seven-year-olds, with Sweden’s Anna Freskgard and Clawfinger- another ‘I’m Special de Muze’ progeny - taking the six-year-old bronze.
The Dressage standard was high amongst the 65 seven-year-olds and 45 six-year-olds entered. Blom-Hulsman is no stranger to these championships and her six-year-old mare looked outstanding in all three phases. Dressage leader in the seven-year-olds was Lizzie Baugh who was competing here for the first time with her own and the Spice syndicate's seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare Calida Spice. The 27-year-old, who finished fifth overall, is based on her family farm producing horses up to 5* level. “This has been the aim with this horse all season. We brought her as a four-year-old and she’s always had a lovely brain.”
The Cross-Country turned out to be a true test of stamina and bravery. A combination of large crowds and a beautifully presented, but cleverly designed course, made for exciting sport on Saturday.
Stevens jumped a foot-perfect double clear with Chilli Morning IV to win the seven-year-old title, and was excited to be at the event on another talented progeny of Chilli Morning, who won Badminton (GBR) and competed in the Rio Olympics with William Fox-Pitt (GBR).
“I am unbelievably proud to be crowned World Champion. This has been our goal and aim with him since he started his programme. We have produced him right from the start, which makes it extra special. Le Lion is the most incredible show, it’s always been a dream to win here and I can’t actually believe it’s come true.
Gemma Stevens
(GBR)
“The owners Chris and Lisa Stone are so excited. The horse was unbelievable, he was so positive and his ears were pricked... It feels like he loves Cross-Country. We have high hopes for him. The feeling he gives me is incredible, and his ability to focus is just unbelievable even at such a young age.”
Silver medallist Kitty King now has a full set of medals from Le Lion: two golds, a silver and a bronze. The precociously talented Kantango was bred in the United Kingdom, starting his career in Jumping before King took him on as a five-year-old.
“He (Kantango) had a steep learning curve as a six-year-old, but he’s been a super consistent horse. He’s very sharp and has a quick-thinking brain and he felt superb all week. It was the best performance he’s given me and a great place to do it”
Kitty King
(GBR)
Six-year-old champions Killer Queen and Merel Blom-Hulsman experienced the rain on their Cross-Country round. “I had a long and wet ride. She surprised me at the first water when she jumped quite big and gave me an easy Cross-Country round. We bought her as a three-year-old and when she was four, she became Dutch Champion for her age.”
Runner-up Norway Van De Haar is another exciting prospect sourced by Mark Bosanko in The Netherlands as a four-year-old and taken on by Warburton as a five-year-old. The KWPN gelding by High Shutterfly belied his youth in all three phases and gave Warburton his best result at Le Lion so far, having finished in the top ten in 2022 and 2023. “This horse is lovely. I rode with him for the first time as a five-year-old and from the minute I sat on him I knew he was one for Lion”, Warburton said.
Gregory Wathelet (BEL) claims victory in the opening leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2024-2025, Western European League in Oslo (NOR). He gives all the credit to his 13-year-old stallion Bond Jamesbond de Hay: “He’s amazing. He makes me feel like I’m a good rider.”
The audience in Oslo witnessed a technical Jumping competition on a course that demanded both agility and power—two qualities Bond Jamesbond de Hay clearly possessed and fully utilised.
“Bond has great scope and a lot of flexibility, which is rare given his big, massive body. He makes showjumping feel very easy for me. Ever since we became a combination, we’ve been delivering clear rounds almost every time,” says Wathelet.
Despite his victory, Wathelet believes he can improve his performance. “A win is always wonderful, and it’s not every day that I ride a World Cup competition,” he said jubilantly after his win. “Still, I think there’s room for improvement. This was Bond’s first indoor event after the outdoor season, and I believe he could get into a bit more routine. However, I chose to give him some rest before this competition because we just finished 3 days of competition in Brussels (CSIO5*)”
Bittersweet second place
The majority of the 40 athletes and horses competing in the 1.60m course at the Telenor Arena came from Europe, including the second and third-placed riders who followed Wathelet.
Edouard Schmitz (SUI) with Gamin van’t Naastveldhof secured second place, while Julien Gonin (FRA) with Valou de Lys claimed third. Both riders incurred 4 penalties due to a fallen pole, but Schmitz’s time of 43.10 seconds was more than a full second faster than Gonin’s 44.19 seconds.
For Schmitz, the second-place finish felt bittersweet. While he was pleased to earn 17 qualification points, he shared his emotions: “I’ve already placed second in a World Cup competition twice. Placing second is becoming a habit, and I don’t like it. Hopefully, I’ll secure enough qualification points soon, so I can fully focus on the World Cup Final. My next stop will be the World Cup in Helsinki.”
Julien Gonin was proud of his horse Valou. “Third place is a great result for the first World Cup event of the year. Valou is the best horse I’ve ever ridden, and she’s even better indoors than outdoors. I’m looking forward to the upcoming indoor competitions, including Lyon and Madrid.”
In Lyon, Gonin will once again face Wathelet, who has also added the Lyon leg to his schedule. “My goal is to qualify for the Final in Basel in April 2025, ideally with two horses”, Wathelet says.
“In addition to my main horse, Bond, I plan to qualify with Ace of Heart. So, if I secure a spot for the final, I’ll have two options.”
A challenging course
The fact that only 4 of the 40 participating combinations reached the jump-off is a testament to the challenging nature of the course. The Telenor Arena, a multifunctional indoor stadium in Fornebu, a suburb of Oslo, boasts a capacity of 25,000 and is the largest indoor arena in Norway and one of the largest in Europe. The space is ideal for a smooth transition from the outdoor to the indoor season.
Despite the available space, course designer Peter Lundström didn’t make it easy for the athletes. He crafted a challenging track for the opening leg. His course included every element of Jumping: short, sometimes broken, lines; long stretches for powerful gallops; challenging combinations of several jumps; and narrow jumps that tested the athletes’ steering abilities.
Wathelet confirmed the course’s difficulty: “When walking the course, I immediately saw that the obstacles came up quickly after the turns. It was a tough course right from the start, and the tight time limit of 73 seconds made it even more challenging.”
Next leg in Helsinki
The demanding course was – as for almost all the athletes – a dealbreaker for the Norwegian athletes, who competed on home soil in front of ‘their’ audience. None of them made it to the jump-off. Other Scandinavian riders also struggled. But, as always in Jumping, anything can happen. This was only the 1st of 14 qualifiers. The next leg takes place on Sunday, 27 October, in Helsinki.
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