The equestrian world turned its eyes to Abu Dhabi last weekend as the inaugural qualifier of the Longines League of Nations™ 2024 took place at the prestigious Al Forsan International Sports Resort.

The event unfolded amidst the state-of-the-art facilities spanning 1.6km², situated a 15-minute drive from both the Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The Al Forsan International Sports Resort, established in 2010, played host to the League, showcasing world-class facilities tailored to facilitate horses, riders, grooms, and spectators alike.

This landmark event boasted a myriad of amenities, including a state-of-the-art Grooms Lounge, Owners Lounge, and Riders Lounge. With accommodations for up to 320 horses and ample seating for 1350 spectators alongside a standing capacity of 200 people around the arena - the venue ensured an immersive and comfortable experience for all attendees. 

Since 2010, the UAE has been the sole Middle Eastern host of the FEI Jumping Nations™ Cup Qualifier, and extending its hospitality to events of such global stature underscores its dedication to the sport.

According to organiser Mohammed Al Nakhi, standout moments of the event included the awe-inspiring team parade, which showcased riders from the ten qualifying nations worldwide and the spirit of unity associated with the event, as well as the remarkable local performances that propelled the home nation into the spotlight, as the Abu Dhabi team made it through to the second round of the competition.

Behind the scenes, meticulous preparation ensured the venue's readiness to host the landmark event. With a track record of hosting top-tier Jumping events - including former FEI Nations Cups - the venue included a dedicated Grooms Lounge, which was created for the first time with refreshments, seating, and two monitors to follow the live feed, as well as enhanced stabling facilities. Along with air conditioning, rubber flooring and CCTV, there was a dedicated stable manager to facilitate the accommodation of horses flying in from Europe, underscoring the commitment to equine welfare and participant comfort.

Sustainability remained at the forefront of the event's ethos, with initiatives aimed at minimising environmental impact. From using existing infrastructure such as arenas and stables, to promoting eco-conscious practices such as glass water bottles and digital start lists with QR codes, every effort was made to ensure responsible stewardship of resources. 

In the UAE climate, hosting the event at optimal time to make best use of cool weather was a consideration, thus minimising the need for over-watering of arenas to save water, and reducing the need for air conditioning around the venue.

Fresh from a successful weekend and looking ahead, the UAE's commitment to equestrian excellence remains unwavering, with plans to host an array of high-level events in the coming seasons. By expanding the number of 4* and 5* events and collaborating with neighbouring countries, the UAE aims to elevate the region's prominence in the global equestrian circuit and is poised to further its stature as a global equestrian hub.

Follow the series on FEI.tv as the second leg kicks off on 23 march in Ocala, Florida (USA). 

The brand new Longines League of Nations™ series got off to a flying start today with a nail-biting contest in which Team Germany won through at the Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. It could hardly have been scripted better, with the result depending on the very last ride of the day when a single error by Mark McAuley and GRS Lady Amaro prevented a jump-off between the winners and Team Ireland who led from the outset but who had to settle for runner-up spot ahead of Sweden in third place. Germany finished on an eight-fault scoreline while Ireland completed with 12, and the Swedes were rewarded for their quicker times to fill third spot when sharing a 20-fault final scoreline with Brazil. Christian Kukuk (Mumbai), Jörne Sprehe (Sprehe Hot Easy), David Will (My Prins van Dorperheide) and Christian Ahlmann (Blueberry) posted today’s historic German victory, and their Chef d’Equipe Otto Becker said “it’s a super start in the Olympic season, and I’m very happy and proud of my four riders!” Full attention Olympic course designer, Spain’s Santiago Varela, set them a technical 12-fence track that required the full attention of both riders and horses every inch of the way. Bizarrely, the opening oxer proved one of the big bogeys, lowered by four horse-and-rider combinations in the first round and another four in round two, but it was the line from the oxer at fence five to the open water at six and on to a double of verticals at fence seven that proved the undoing of most.  As world number one Henrik von Eckermann said after his pathfinding round for Sweden with Iliana, this stretch of the track was the most challenging. However he was one of four to complete double-clear runs today, the other three posted by his wife, Switzerland’s Janika Sprunger with the talented 10-year-old mare Orelie, Irish pathfinder Richard Howley with Equine America Consulent de Prelet Z and Germany’s Jörne Sprehe with Sprehe Hot Easy. As the number-one ranked team in the world the Irish had the best of the draw and so were last to go in the first round. And they made the most of that advantage when clears from McAuley, Howley and Mikey Pender (HHS Calais) left them on a zero scoreline at the halfway stage ahead of Sweden and Germany on four, Switzerland and Brazil on eight, the UAE - who were not counting points but were competing as host nation - on 11 faults, and Great Britain and USA on 12 apiece. The Netherlands, France and Belgium lost out when only these top eight teams went through to the second round, and with only three riders per nation this time out and every score counting the intensity increased at a rapid rate. It was fast, furious and mistakes would prove very costly indeed. The Americans completed with 28 faults on the board, the British finished with 36 and the UAE racked up an additional 35 to drop out of contention on a final total of 46. With just 12 to add Team Brazil finished with 20 and double-faults from both Elian Baumann (Little Lumpi E) and Barbara Schnieper (Canice) settled the Swiss tally at 24. But meanwhile the Germans were piling on the pressure. Extra stride Kukuk’s only mistake with Mumbai in the first round was at the troublesome double at fence seven, but putting in an extra stride this time it came up just right and the pair sailed on home for an effortless clear. So when Sprehe produced a second sensational run with her 12-year-old mare Hot Easy then Team Germany was clearly threatening because Von Eckermann’s second clear was followed by a 12-fault result from Peder Fredricson and Alcapone des Carmille, so the Olympic, World and European champions from Sweden were losing their grip.  Meanwhile although the Irish got off to the perfect start with Howley’s second clear, mistakes from Mikey Pender and HHS Calais at the oxer at three and again at the final oxer left them vulnerable.  It all came down to the final two into the ring, Germany’s David Will levelling the score with Ireland at eight faults each when clipping the penultimate oxer. So a jump-off was in prospect if Ireland’s McAuley could leave all the timber intact. But that difficult distance from the open water to the first of the double of verticals proved the Irishman’s undoing in an otherwise foot-perfect last-to-go run with the mare who made it all look so elementary first time out. The pendulum had swung, and the one-fence advantage went in favour of the Germans at the end of the day. Delighted Jörne Sprehe was delighted with the win. “It’s a really good feeling, Easy was jumping amazing and I’m very proud of her. For me she is the best horse ever!”, she said.  Christian Kukuk was also well pleased with Mumbai’s performance. “It’s actually the first 5* show for him since the Europeans and he always needs a few rounds to get back in the rhythm, especially at this level that is normal, but I had a good feeling and I said after having one down in the first round I’m very excited for the second round. It was very good for him, in the second round he showed all his potential and I think our team should be very proud today”  David Will said, “I’m thrilled with the whole team, especially Jörne with her double-clear, she was exceptionally good today. I’m very happy with my horse, he jumped great. In the first round it was a bit my mistake, I didn’t wait enough going to the last fence and we had that down. In the second round he jumped even better which proves his quality. And I was maybe thinking a bit too much about my fault at the last fence in the first round and then I had a light fault at the second-last, but overall my horse was class!” And asked if he was unhappy about not being called up for the second round, Christian Ahlmann said, “No! I was really happy with my round and it was the first time she jumped a proper 1.60m course with me so I didn’t know exactly what was going to happen today. So we had a super round, everything worked like it should and I’m really happy with that!” Disappointment For Irish Chef d’Equipe Michael Blake there was a little disappointment  “because at half-time we looked like we could snatch it. But overall if you told me this morning we were going to be second, against the strong teams that were there, I would have been happy overall. In the end it didn’t go our way, but that’s the sport!”, he said. As Howley pointed out today’s second-place finish is still good news. “This puts us in a great position moving forward, today was top-level sport, a difficult course with very strong teams here so I think it was a great result. If we had one fence less we were in a jump-off for first place so we weren’t far away!”, he said. Today’s result see Germany top of the Longines League of Nations™ leaderboard having earned the maximum 100 points, with Ireland in second with 90 and Sweden third with 80. All teams picked up points today except for UAE who are not eligible.  Speaking on behalf of the Organising Committee Mohamed Al Nakhi congratulated the German winners and described the excitement. “We saw some great sport, a new format, we weren’t sure how it would turn out and you could see the result flipping right there at the end between Ireland and Germany. We thought we would have a jump-off, it didn’t turn out that way but I think it was great sport!” Next stop for the series is Ocala (USA) in March, with the two remaining legs taking place in June at St Gallen (SUI) and Rotterdam (NED) after which the top eight of the ten competing nations will make the cut to the very first Longines League of Nations™ Final in Barcelona (ESP) in October. Don’t miss a hoofbeat….. FULL RESULTS LONGINES LEAGUE OF NATIONS STANDINGS

 

As a new sporting chapter in the FEI’s nation-versus-nation competition is set to begin, the Longines League of Nations™ is also preparing to unveil its official anthem and sonic identity at the opening leg of the Series that will take place in Abu Dhabi (UAE) on 11 February.

The Series anthem has been written by Portuguese composer Rui Ribeiro, who has made a name for himself in the world of classical crossover music with his compositions that are often based on the sounds of nature.

Ribeiro’s anthem for the equestrian Series primarily revolves around a horse’s footfall, which refers to the pattern in which a horse moves its feet when it walks, trots, canters and gallops.

“I spent a lot of time listening and observing, and over the eight weeks it took me to compose the anthem, I first watched many hours of Jumping competitions without really thinking about the music,” Ribeiro explained.

“People may think that music and sport are separate worlds, but I can tell you that understanding and feeling rhythm is key for both musicians and equestrians. If you listen carefully, you will notice that a horse usually walks in a regular 1-2-3-4 beat.  But for me it was the horses three-beat canter and four-beat gallop that provide the pace and natural rhythm I was looking for to compose the Longines League of Nations™ anthem.  

“Once I had the rhythmic framework in place, I started to create the melodies based on what I saw. It’s difficult to ignore the incredible level of trust the horse and human must have in each other when they’re jumping over those high fences! So, I decided to give the anthem three sections. The first and last sections have more energy as they correspond to the sporting action we see in the arena and the middle is slow paced and emotional as it reflects this beautiful bond between the rider and the horse and time and patience required to develop this relationship.”

With a duration of 5 minutes and 11 seconds, the anthem will serve as a basis for shorter adaptations which will accompany TV and web spots. Parts of the anthem will also be used in-venue to highlight different aspects of sports presentation and will be produced by Ricardo Ferreira who co-owns Lisbon based BLIM Records with Ribeiro.

“Sport, like music, has the ability to create strong emotions in people and we’ve been fortunate to work with Rui Ribeiro, a composer who has understood the emotional value of the horse and human connection and how to translate this musically for the Longines League of Nations™ Series,” FEI Commercial Director Ralph Straus said.

“The nation-versus-nation format has always created an emotionally charged atmosphere in-venue, and the spectators in the stands connect with each other through a shared passion for the sport and the camaraderie which goes hand in hand with representing your nation. With the best teams in the world taking part in the Series, the sporting action is going to be as intense as ever, and we wanted to make the key moments of the sport resonate more strongly with a sonic identity for the Series.

“It has been said that people think about what they see, but feel what they hear. And we want the fans watching in the stands, but also at home on TV, to be able relive the excitement and the emotion of the sport long after they have left the venue.”

Listen to the full anthem here

Listening guide to the Longines League of Nations™ anthem

Editorial notes:

The canter is a fast, asymmetrical, three-beat gait in which three distinct footfalls can be heard. In the first beat, one hind hoof hits the ground; in the second beat, the opposite hind hoof and diagonal front hoof hit the ground; finally, in the third beat, the remaining front hoof hits the ground; this is followed by a suspension. This sequence is repeated in a regular 1,2,3, pause rhythm.

The gallop is the horse’s fastest gait. As an asymmetrical gait, it is characterised by four distinct beats, one hoof at a time, followed by a moment of suspension. The footfall sequence is similar to the canter, but the canter´s second beat is extended to two beats due to the longer stride length, making the gallop a four-beat gait.

About the Longines League of Nations™ (LLN)

The Longines League of Nations™ is the FEI’s new chapter in the history of the Nations Cup, equestrian sport’s oldest and most prestigious series which as a concept – the nation--versus-nation competition – has existed since 1909. The LLN represents the best of equestrian sport featuring a unified and global format, unique to the series, where the top ten nations compete at four qualifiers in order to secure their spot at the Final where the eight teams go head-to-head for the high coveted trophy at the Finals in Barcelona (ESP).

Media contacts

Vanessa Martin Randin
Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Media Relations
FEI Communications
vanessa.randin@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 73

 

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off this weekend, over the past few weeks we've been taking a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona.

Today, we look at the last of the 10 nations and top of the ranking leading into the series, Ireland...

Often referred to as the ‘Land of the Horse’, Ireland is a leader in producing sporthorses and riding talent, with the famous green jackets being predominant atop podiums around the world over the years. 

Having won the Longines FEI Jumping Nation’s Cup™ in 2019, as well as a 2023 European Championships silver medal under their belts, Ireland is well aware of the demands and delights these team Jumping events offer, and are ready for the sweet taste of victory again under Chef d’Equipe Michael Blake.

Blake has been instrumental in the Irish federation as Team Ireland Senior Jumping Development Manager and Assistant Team Manager to the Irish senior Jumping team, playing a critical role in their previous Nations Cup win as well as their 2017 European Championship title - and he’s ready to use all of that experience and insight to take it again:

“To win a Nations Cup has always been up there for me as the highest honour and as the number one ranked nation in the competition, we will be… putting our best foot forward to cement that position throughout the Longines League of Nations™.”

As ten teams make their way to Abu Dhabi - a brand new venue - for the first of four qualifiers, we caught up with Blake about his team’s approach to the League, and what it means to the sport and supporters.

Ireland has a rich history in horsemanship. How do you view the Longines League of Nations™ as an opportunity to celebrate Ireland's historical significance in equestrian sports and create a new chapter in the nation's horsemanship?

"Ireland has long been revered in the sport and for decades we have produced some of the world's best horses and riders, with legendary names such as Tommy Wade, Seamus Hayes and Eddie Macken paving the way for the current crop of stars we have representing Ireland in the green jacket in the 2024 Longines League of Nations™.

So many of our riders are ranked very highly in world rankings, and we are the world number-one team going into this competition. That is testament to the programme we have built, through Ponies, Juniors and Young Riders, and you can see the depth of talent Ireland has coming through".

"This competition gives us an opportunity to showcase our athletes, human and equine, and I'm sure they will do their nation proud as we aim towards the Final in Barcelona".

Michael Blake (IRL

Longines emphasises the importance of tradition and innovation. How does your team integrate these elements into your Jumping strategy and overall team dynamics?

"For Team Ireland, Nations Cup Jumping is the pinnacle for us and the development of the concept is so important. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a national team working together. When you look at the emotions, the “kiss and cry” when each Nation is competing, it is easy to see the pride, excitement and elation when it goes well - we use this to galvanise our team. 

Nothing is more important to our riders than jumping for their country and even though Jumping could be seen as an individual sport in most cases, for riders the dynamic changes completely when it becomes a Nations Cup. We are extremely grateful to Longines for their continued and unstinting support of the Series. It is of paramount importance to protect the tradition of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™".
 
Does being top of the ranking lead you in with confidence, or is the team feeling the pressure and how do they translate this into a positive effect?

"Everyone wants to be ranked as highly as possible and there is no better ranking than number one - it's where we always strive to be and it's something we are very proud of. With that comes obvious pressure, but we welcome that pressure and we will try to instil the importance of what the series means in each and every rider who represents this team. 

Once this series starts, we are all equal and we will concentrate on our own performances throughout the series and do our best to have a successful campaign". 

Follow the thrills on FEI.tv as the first leg kicks off on 11 February in Abu Dhabi. 

The FEI has appointed Daniel Alvarez, 44, a Swiss and Spanish national, as its new Finance Director. He will replace outgoing Chief Financial Officer Claude Praz, who will step down from his position at the end of June, to take an early retirement.

Daniel Alvarez is a Swiss certified specialist for Finance and Accounting with a solid expertise in Accounting and Controlling. He holds a wealth of professional experience having worked at international companies with branches in Switzerland such as Tetra Pak International; Ikea; and Debiopharm, an independent biopharmaceutical company. From 2009 to 2021, he was at Philip Morris International, where he rose to the position of Manager Financial Planning. Before joining the FEI, Mr Alvarez was the Head of Controlling – Business Partnering at Ineos Styrolution, a global chemical organisation. During his tenure at Ineos Styrolution he completed an Advanced Management Development Programme.

“It gives me great pleasure to welcome Daniel Alvarez to the FEI,” Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “We were impressed with his varied professional experience and are convinced that his deep understanding of Swiss finance coupled with his knowledges of international markets will be great assets for the FEI.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express our deepest thanks to outgoing CFO Claude Praz, who has been with the FEI for over 10 years. His contribution to the rigour and transparency with which the FEI manages its finances is outstanding. We, of course, respect his decision to retire early and enjoy personal projects, but are very sad to see him go.”

“I am delighted to be joining the FEI,” newly appointed FEI Finance Director Daniel Alvarez commented. “I was impressed with the organisation’s commitment to good governance, service and accountability and I am looking very much forward to this new challenge.”

Daniel Alvarez will start in his new role on 15 April and will work alongside Claude Praz to ensure a thorough and smooth handover.

Mr Alvarez speaks French and Spanish as mother tongues and is fluent in English. He is married and has three children.

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off this weekend, over the past few weeks we've been taking a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona. Today, we look at the USA...   Despite being 3-times Olympic Champions (1984, 2004, 2008) and 2-time Team Jumping winners at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ (1986 and 2018), the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ title has evaded the US team, who will be looking to bring the heat for this inaugural 2024 series. There are four qualifiers over three continents, and only the top 8 teams will see the final in Barcelona in a year that the Olympic Games in Paris are also a consideration.  Starring as Chef d’Equipe is former Olympian and Course Designer of the Year winner Robert Ridland. Since accepting this role in 2013, he has led the U.S. team to team bronze medals at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ and Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, as well as silver medals in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the 2017 Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Final, and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. His enormous experience and analytical approach to the sport is credited with the team being the current Pan American Games Champions, fresh from Santiago 2023, bringing the US team into this series on confidence.  "We have always believed that Nations Cups form the bedrock of the sport of Jumping, and from the beginning we have been tremendously supportive of the FEI’s initiative to revitalise and strengthen the Longines League of Nations™ series,” says Ridland, who spoke to us about the upcoming series:   The USA has a strong tradition of national pride. How do you envision the Longines League of Nations™ becoming a source of pride for the American public and inspiring a sense of unity among fans?   "From the point of view of generating larger public visibility and a more invested audience base, the Longines League of Nations™ is a series with the same ten teams every time. I believe it was always the intent to make this series more in alignment with other sports, where you’re encouraged to follow what’s going on throughout the season to get a better picture of the concept and enjoy following the results. In the past it’s been hard to really understand the connection between the Nations Cup events, and in that sense, this will create more camaraderie across the teams we field to represent the U.S., and for our fans of USA Jumping. Everyone is working towards the same goal with each qualifier, ultimately aiming for the Final. It’s something our supporters can follow and engage with throughout the year. We’re very much in support of the FEI and Longines in producing a concept that’s fresh and new for the sport. We needed more innovation in how we showcase these marquee events, so we’re excited to be a part of the new venture."    Do you have any specific team-building strategies that contribute to your team's success in competitions like the Longines League of Nations™?   "There are two main reasons we are excited for this new series, the first being that we will use these events to prepare our potential team combinations for major championships. The other is by giving experience to the younger generation of riders who can’t get this experience unless they do it and learn to feel the pressure of these team-format competitions.   "There’s no amount of practice at home that can get you comfortable with riding into the arena when it really counts with the U.S. flag on your saddle pad. It’s always our goal to be on the podium and that will be our main aim looking at the season of events ahead". Robert Ridland (USA) As a team manager, how do you personally approach the responsibility of leading your nation's team in such a prestigious competition, and what are a couple of core values you instil into your riders?   "With the format moving slightly away from the traditional Nations Cup, and knowing that there’s no discard score in the second round, this will really help us give experience to athletes in a format which is somewhat like the Olympic Games. That’s very valuable for us as a program in building towards preparation for this summer and the future. We have a lot of great owners, athletes, horses, and supporters behind us, and the cohesion of this series can give us a real sense of togetherness throughout the year, especially when we are building toward a major championship run this summer."   Follow the thrills on FEI.tv as the first leg kicks off on 11 February in Abu Dhabi.

After the closest fought final for some years, Bram Chardon (NED) took his third FEI Driving World Cup™ title in Bordeaux (FRA) by beating Boyd Exell (AUS) into second place – by only 0.83!  Making the victory even more special, his father – the great Ijsbrand Chardon (NED) – took third place and during the prize ceremony they proudly stood together on the podium.

Going into Sunday’s final competition, the question as to who would win remained more open than ever after the small margins between the drivers on Saturday night’s opening competition.  Bram started his second day on zero points due to the special scoring system used in a final, which gave him an advantage, but the 50% differences carried over for those behind him ultimately made little impact on the positions.

As the penultimate Driver in the arena in the first round, he produced a quick clear, to put the pressure on Boyd.  In a nip and tuck race, Boyd upped the ante and drove one of the best rounds of his season to go a mere 0.33 ahead.  Joining them in the top three, Ijsbrand improved on his position and rose two places with 142.35 to guarantee himself a place on the podium alongside his son.

Running in reverse order for the drive-off, Ijsbrand was first back in and completed his last, clear round of the event over a slightly reduced course in 121.30, to give him a combined score of 263.65.  

"For me it is a bonus that my father is on the podium too, like last year.  And my sisters are a crucial part of the team too, so it all stays in the family, which makes victories like this more special and the journey home even better."

Bram Chardon (NED)

Bram said afterwards he was concerned that he had the least time of the three remaining Drivers to rest his horses between the rounds.  But his Lipizzaners drew on their stamina and agility to produce another display of precise lines with powerful runs, and a clear in 116.41, giving him a total of 251.86.

Boyd had the advantage of resting his horses for a little longer before his drive-off, but as he entered the arena a bungee on one of the leader’s harness needed a quick repair, which delayed his start.  He said it didn’t impact his round – but knocking a cone did – and he admitted that he didn’t realise that there had been a penalty until informed by his navigator Emma Olsson.  Although he was 2.84 seconds faster than Bram, it wasn’t enough to claw back the four seconds and he slid into second on 252.69.

“I only came here for one goal which was to win.  Yesterday was a good start, although I had an unlucky knockdown but today, the horses went double clear. The pressure between me and Boyd has been going on all season and we are pushing each other to the next level every time, and I think we saw one of the best finals in many years.  This is what our sport is about!

For me it is a bonus that my father is on the podium too, like last year.  And my sisters are a crucial part of the team too, so it all stays in the family, which makes victories like this more special and the journey home even better.” – Bram Chardon (NED)

Ijsbrand praised the quality of Johan Jacob’s (NED) course which combined technical lines, several route options and smooth, faster sections.   He also saluted the venue and organisers, the atmosphere and the high level of Driving, then added, “But the most important thing is that Bram has won!”  

Boyd was gracious in defeat and credited his horses for their consistency during the series, which began with his victory in Lyon (FRA), saying, “We put the pedal to the metal and we nearly got the ball back!  My team were super and I am really pleased with my horses today.” 

In another close contest, Koos de Ronde (NED) just missed out on a drive-off place by 0.28 to finish his final in fourth place (142.63).  Dries Degrieck (BEL) couldn’t match his Leipzig (GER) form but was only 1.35 behind Koos to end fifth (143.98).  Despite an improved round on yesterday, Germany’s Michael Brauchle was further away on 163.89 for sixth and Benjamin Aillaud ended on 168.54.

It was the 10th time that the FEI Driving World Cup™ final has been held in Bordeaux since the series began in 2001.  Bram won his first indoor championship here in 2019 and his next in Leipzig in 2022.  The cat and mouse trading of titles between Boyd and Bram swung in the Dutchman’s favour this year, but they both had to raise their game to ensure that they stayed ahead of their compatriots, who are closer than ever to victory.  But for now, it is Bram who was crowned the new FEI Driving World Cup™ winner.

Results HERE

In the dramatic penultimate leg of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2023/2024 Western European League in Bordeaux (FRA) tonight, Swiss superstar Steve Guerdat steered his own exciting mare Is-Minka into pole position with a brilliant jump-off performance.

The three-time FEI Jumping World Cup™ champion and the 11-year-old grey have been knocking on the door in recent months, and it seemed only a matter of time before they put it all together and came up with a big result.

Tonight was the night, and the 2012 individual Olympic gold medallist, whose consistency in the World Cup series is second to none, said “it’s so exciting, I’m really, really happy! We had a bit of bad luck with a lot of four faults in our first 5-Star Grand Prix, but today she showed what she’s capable of and I think it’s only the beginning of a very successful story with her!”

The French crowd had plenty to cheer about when their own young star, 22-year-old Jeanne Sadran, slotted into second with Dexter de Kerglenn ahead of Great Britain’s Harry Charles and Sherlock in third. Fourth spot went to Belgium’s Pieter Devos with Casual DV Z, while home hero Roger Yves Bost slotted into fifth with Ballerine du Vilpion and Israel’s Isabella Russekoff and C Vier 2 finished last of the six who qualified for the jump-off.

No easy day

This was no easy day at the office, French course designer Jean-Francois Morand setting them a 14-fence first-round track that championship veteran Guerdat described as “pretty tough - it started with two big jumps and that really backed up the horses, and then the triple combination (fence 6) was very difficult but she (Is-Minka) is a very good combination jumper and she showed that today”. 

Competition pathfinder, Denmark’s Zascha Nygaard Lill, had a refusal there with Conterno-PS who also took a dislike to the following wall of very colourful planks for elimination. Jumped off a left-hand turn so horses only had sight of it from a couple of strides away, this fence, to the amazement of the crowd, also put paid to the chances of Frenchman Edward Levy (Eify du Pic) and world number one Henrik von Eckermann from Sweden (Calizi) when both horses jammed on the brakes and dislodged their riders to bring the elimination quota to three. 

The back bar of the oxer at fence 10 also claimed multiple victims, and with five retirements there were just 27 finishers from the 36 starters, but the second-round jump-off against the clock kept the 6,000 spectators on the edges of their seats.

Gauntlet

Guerdat and Is-Minka threw down the gauntlet with a fast, smooth pathfinding round that stopped the clock on 40.34 seconds and it was up to the rest to better that.

In her first-ever World Cup jump-off Russekoff was clear to the very last with the wonderful C Vier 2 who carried Germany’s David Will to European team silver in 2021 and who joined the Florida-based Israeli rider’s string 12 months ago. 

Then Bost set the home crowd alight with a great clear that just wasn’t quite quick enough when the clock showed 44.39 seconds, and although Charles shaved almost two seconds off that Guerdat was still well out in front with two left to go. 

The French had another reason to get excited when Sadran rode into the electrified Bordeaux ring, producing a fabulous run from the 11-year-old stallion Dexter whose partnership with his 22-year-old rider is a joy to behold. The crowd gave the pair a standing ovation even though they crossed the line 1.41 seconds slower than the Swiss rider’s target time to squeeze ahead of Charles into second place, because they knew they’d witnessed something special. Last to go, Devos was clear but a little cautious with his nine-year-old home-bred mare Casual DV Z to push Bost down to fourth. 

For Guerdat there was the satisfaction of victory and for runner-up Sadran, who has enjoyed a tremendous winter season with Dexter, there was affirmation of their place amongst the stars. For third-placed Charles there was a sense of the cementing of his partnership with Sherlock who won the seventh leg of the Western European League at La Coruna (ESP) in December but who looked even more solid today in both rounds.

Relentless

Charles, who described the first round track as “relentless”, said he was very happy with Sherlock. 

“He should have been clear in the World Cup last week in Amsterdam, just had a small mistake at the last jump, but I’m happy to have put it right this week and I’m very proud of him. He’s still very new at this level and he felt pretty at ease around there so I have good hopes for the future”, he pointed out. 

He said his third-place finish was “one better than last year, we were fourth here last year so if I keep coming for the next two years I could be at the top sometime soon!”

He stuck to his plan in the jump-off. “I saw Steve and he made it look a lot easier than it was. I thought maybe I could get him but then I realised quickly after the first three jumps I don’t think I’m actually close so just try to leave the jumps up. He (Sherlock) needs another few rounds at this height going at that speed to really get it. But I couldn’t have asked for more, he did everything I asked him so I’m very happy and very proud of him”, the British rider said.

Quick

Talking about her jump-off ride Sadran said, ‘I knew I was quick but not to touch Steve. My horse needs to learn to turn a little bit more smooth - but next time!” 

Jumping in front of her home crowd was a real treat. “It’s something special, especially because I need to pick up points for the Final and normally after today I will qualify for the Final in Riyadh and it’s super-nice for me tonight!” she pointed out. 

And asked if she was proud of what she achieved she replied, “I’m more proud of my horse because he’s 11 years old and still young but he is a genius for sure! He can do everything, he is so confident, and today he proved that he is one of the best horses in the world for sure!”

Meanwhile Guerdat, who also won in Bordeaux four years ago riding Victorio des Frotard, said “the first time I won the World Cup here felt unbelievable and this is the second time. I’m so proud of my mare and my whole team and it’s a very nice day to remember!”

Asked if he is excited about going to the Final in April he replied “Yes! But right now I just want to enjoy this victory especially for my mare. She should have left me last year after she won a Grand Prix, but thanks to my father-in-law he secured her for me so she could stay and go the whole way with me”. 

He has an incredible record at the World Cup Final, with 12 top-10 places along with his three wins. Today’s result has moved him up to fifth place on the league leaderboard behind fourth-place Kevin Staut from France, Britain’s Ben Maher and Harry Charles in third and second and Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann who remains in pole position ahead of the defence of the title he won with King Edward in 2023.

The 14th and final leg of the Western European League will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden in three weeks’ time, so don’t miss a hoofbeat….

Result

Standings

The times were tight, and the margins were miniscule, as two-time FEI Driving World Cup™ champion Bram Chardon (NED) set out on his bid for another title to edge into first on an exciting opening night in Bordeaux (FRA).  The three Dutch Drivers in the lineup followed a similar tactic and were very quick over the course, completing it in under 140 seconds.  All had penalties to add, but Bram had done enough to topple defending champion Boyd Exell (AUS) from the top spot – by only 1.04!

The running order was set by the series rankings after the eight qualifying legs, which stared in Lyon (FRA) in early November.  Ranked second, Bram was the penultimate athlete to enter the buzzing arena in the vast Parc des Expositions complex, with a near capacity crowd of 8,000.  Tackling Johan Jacob’s (NED) technical course, which had numerous options for routes through the obstacles and cones, Bram’s agile grey horses pooled their power to produce the fastest round of the night in 137.71 seconds.  An early ball roll meant four was added to his time, but the total of 141.71 kept Bram in front and gives him the psychological advantage going into the all-important title-deciding competition on Sunday afternoon.

As the top ranked Driver, Boyd was the last to enter the arena and bore the weight of expectation after his emphatic five victories during the series.  Although he was clear, his time was slower than the Dutch.  It was enough to put him in front of a delighted Koos de Ronde (NED) – but only by 0.14.  Another previous champion, Koos was the second Driver to start, and he added an early ball.  But his long striding horses kept flowing forward, as they have done throughout the series, and they produced a time that was only 1.18 slower than Bram’s.

Keeping the competition tantalizingly close, Dries Degrieck (BEL), who won his first FEI Driving World Cup™ event at the last leg in Leipzig (GER), drove a consistent clear to end on his time of 143.77, a mere 0.88 behind Koos.  Buoyed by his recent form, Dries may well ask his willing horses for even more tomorrow as he proved he can beat the best when it really counts.

As the third ranked Driver, Dutch legend Ijsbrand Chardon (NED) drove just before his son and was also fast, his horses producing a time of 139.89.  But there was eight to add, so his total of 147.89 pushed him into fifth.

Michael Brauchle (GER), who qualified on equal points to Dries, set out with his customary speedy intent but had to check his horses before the first marathon style obstacle, which stalled the rhythm, and cost him valuable seconds.  Two late balls on the course added eight to his time and he was sixth on 151.62.  The host nation’s wild card, Benjamin Aillaud (FRA), was the opening Driver and added eight penalties to his time to end on 166.63. 

As there is only one round in the first competition at a Final, the Drivers did not compete again and the top three re-entered the arena for the prize giving.  The positions from tonight set the running order for Sunday and also influence the scores because 50% of the difference between the first place and those behind is carried over.  After the first round on Sunday there will be a drive-off for the fastest three competitors, then the new FEI Driving World Cup™ winner will be crowned.

With such a close opening competition, it’s all to play for and the finale promises to be an exciting climax to a hard-fought series between the top Drivers.  Tune into FEI TV for live coverage.

For further information - FEI Driving World Cup™ - Season 2022-2023

With the inaugural season of the Longines League of Nations™ kicking off this month, over the past few weeks we've been taking a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete and be the first to hoist the new trophy at the Final in Barcelona.

Today, we look at France...

France has a rich equestrian history through the centuries, with a love affair that has produced some of the world’s greatest horses and riders. Two-time Olympic team gold medallists and 3-time winners of FEI Jumping World Championships and later the FEI World Equestrian Games™, the French are always formidable competitors, and they have an intimidating support structure taking them into a big competition year. 

Henk Nooren brings some 5 decades of experience to his role as chef d’equipe for the French team, becoming one of the most sought-after coaches in the sport and has not only helmed the French to success, but also the Dutch, Italians and Swiss. 

Adding to the tour-de-force that is French Jumping is Sophie Dubourg, national Technical Director of the French Equestrian Federation since 2013, the first woman to hold this position. Supporting high performance competitors across equestrian disciplines, it is in this capacity that she led the French Olympic teams which won medals in Jumping and Eventing at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016, and also second place at the FEI Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Final in 2022. Doubling focus between the upcoming Longines League of Nations™ whilst preparing for Paris 2024 Olympic Games, she reiterates France’s delight to be part of this new league: 

"The FEI Nations Cup™ has always had a very special meaning, and we are proud to participate amongst the best athletes and equestrian nations on the international circuit"

Being part of this new series also confirms the excellent work and continued dedication throughout the year of our athletes, their horses, their team, the owners, sponsors and all the staff.”

We speak to Dubourg about the goals for the French team as we approach the first leg. 

In a global series like the Longines League of Nations™, how does your team plan to collaborate with other participating nations, fostering unity and mutual respect in the equestrian community?

"This series is about competing for our nation at the highest level of the sport, and while we enjoy the camaraderie with all the participating nations, it is also vital to concentrate on achieving the best results possible. Equestrian sport has evolved a great deal over the years; not only with skills, facilities and equipment, but notably the mentality, not only of the riders, but the community, and the values of horsemanship.

Our sport captivates audiences around the world and for us the values of the sport are paramount. While winning is important, we also align with our collaborating nations and learn from the challenges and the pressures faced in such a high performance sport. 

There is an honour and respect when competing for your nation, which includes the mutual respect of our counterparts from all the participating nations in this series. The important thing is we learn from each other, helping us improve our skills and knowledge every time we compete, and we believe that this series gives us the platform to promote these shared values, which are essential for future generations watching the sport".

As France competes on a global stage, how do you plan to use this opportunity to attract equestrian tourists and enthusiasts to experience the beauty of French equestrian events, especially with the Olympic Games being hosted in Paris this year?

"Although France is not hosting a qualifier, being seen on a global scale as we participate in other countries provides great exposure to the sport for our nation. We know that all eyes are on France as we approach the Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games, and this global series puts us in the spotlight to capture the attention of new and existing equestrian fans worldwide. 

For those new to equestrian sport, we believe this series will be much clearer and easier to understand, which will be advantageous in promoting the series to the media, encouraging them to write about the sport and keep the momentum to follow the series right through to the Final.

Promotion of the series on all platforms including our social media channels will also amplify the widespread exposure to a larger audience, showcasing the talent of our nation, our horse & rider combinations and the exceptional competition. We believe this will not only boost the interest of the younger generations to follow the sport as fans, but also inspire them to achieve and reach their goals of participating at such a high performance level of the sport".

High performance participation in a top series is inspiring for development. How do you plan to capitalise on this series to engage with and inspire the youth of France, creating a new generation of equestrian enthusiasts?

"Competing in the prestigious Longines League of Nations™ series is undoubtedly of great importance for France, and we are delighted to be part of it, not only for our international riders competing at this high level, but also as an encouragement for the future generations of the sport. Whether competing on the global stage or at the local pony club, the values of the sport are the same: horsemanship, discipline, fairness, a level playing field,  friendship, honesty and achievement - all in equal measure.

For any athlete, being able to defend their country's colours is an honour. The Longines League of Nations™ series gives us the chance to broaden the development of our athletes and grow our country's talent pool of horse and rider combinations. Competing on a global scale has a different excitement about it and supporting young talent in a structural way, enriching their knowledge and skills is crucial for the development of any sport. Discovering new talent and - through promoting the Longines League of Nations™ series - encouraging them to consider competing at the highest level, is the ideal situation to capture the hearts of a new generation of riders, and show them that through hard work and dedication, their goals are attainable. Without a doubt, the series final in Barcelona will be one of the highlights on the international equestrian calendar in 2024, not only for our competing athletes and support teams, owners, sponsors and staff, but for budding equestrian enthusiasts".

Dubourg cements the sentiments of the top ten teams as they embark on this league, saying; “Together with the FEI we hope that this inaugural Longines League of Nations™ will gain as much exposure as possible with the general public…as we all work together, we hope to achieve the best results. As first seasons go, we hope it’s a good one!”

Is it going to be the year of the French? Follow the thrills and spills on FEI.tv as the first leg kicks off on 11 February in Abu Dhabi.