The FEI Vaulting World Championships came to a close with the ultimate battle of the nations.

In a record-breaking finale, Team France won back-to-back Nations Team titles scoring 9.239. The combination of the French squad with Yannick Kersulec and Orlof de Conde, Quentin Jabet with Ronaldo 200 NRW and Andrea Boe and Theo Gardies, Sir Sensation and Sebastien Langlois proved impregnable. They led from the start with each combination scoring over 9 points.

Team Germany collected the silver medal in a close fought competition, 8.923. Switzerland had pulled ahead after their two individuals however the German squad performed with precision and left Team Switzerland with another Bronze medal, 8.104.

FEI European Championships for Juniors and Young Vaulters

Germany dominated the Individual Young Vaulter final. Rising from an overnight 5^th place, Lisa Marie Wagner moved in unison with family horse Cascais to take home the bronze medal with Mum Katja Wagner lunging (8.118). Sarah Krauss expertly lunged Max for the final two competitors. Gianna Ronca kept her round one silver position (8.364), but it was Mona Pavetic who had the audience on the edge of their seats, creating unique shapes with her movements and earning the top artistic score of the day and with it the European title (8.532).

In the Male category Paul Ruttkovsky improved his round one placing to scoop the bronze medal for Austria (8.104). After a smooth freestyle program, he knocked Germany’s Ben Lechtenberg into fourth. The silver medal went to Frenchman Tom Menand (8.185), but the gold was reserved for Germany once again. Arne Heers added a second European title to the Pas de Deux one he won on Friday. Leading from the start, he was completely in harmony with Cleiner Onkel T OLD and wins his first individual FEI medal along with lunger Sven Henze.

A phenomenal final saw Germany take home the Junior squad title. The undeniable masters vaulted almost to perfection aboard Captain Claus with Gesa Bϋhrig, 8.311. Silver was for Switzerland, 7.899, with Sweden sweeping the bronze for their first Junior squad medal.

It was a sensational week of high-class Vaulting competition in a fabulous venue. The horses shone on the circle and provided magnificent partnerships for the athletes. Medals were won and memories made as we crowned the 2024 FEI Vaulting champions.

FULL RESULTS

Image: Quentin Jabet takes a picture of Team France after winning the Nations Team gold during FEI Vaulting World Championship 2024 Bern (SUI) © FEI/Martin Dokoupil

It was medals galore on what was super Saturday at the FEI Vaulting Championships. Five nations picked up gold medals in a day full of spectacular horse sport.

In a mind-blowing Senior Female final, Austria’s Eva Nagiller took home the Senior World title. She connected with borrowed horse Bastion and lunger Tomasz Ogonowski to produce a gentle and strong freestyle, 8.786. The silver medal went to Germany’s Alina Ross whose connection with family horse Baron R was obvious as she effortlessly performed her zombie Free test, 8.635.

For German sisters Alice and Helen Layer it was a dream come true at their first Senior Championship. Alice held her nerve throughout her routine and was rewarded with the bronze medal, 8.546. Nadja Bϋttiker had to settle for sixth place for the home nation after a time penalty proved incredibly costly.

It was a nail-biting finale in the Men’s competition. Once again, impeccable Vaulting led to an impressive final. Germany’s Thomas Brϋsewitz won his first Senior World medal, performing with character to take home the bronze, 8.636. Then it was all down to France. Theo Gardies entered second to last and with musicality and precision he earned top scores from the judges, piling the pressure onto teammate Quentin Jabet. Jabet moved seamlessly and was fully engrossed in his concept, however it wasn’t enough to hold the gold. Theo Gardies became the World Champion aboard Sir Sensation lunged by Sebastion Langlois (8.881), with the silver medal going home with Quentin Jabet for the second time (8.859).

There was glory for Switzerland in the Pas de Deux, with Zoe Maruccio and Syra Schmid stunning even themselves as a near flawless performance saw them sweep the silver medal (8.491). Germany’s Gisa Sternberg and Linda Otten had some performance errors dropping them one place but winning the bronze medal at their first Championships (8.397). The world title went home to Germany for the third consecutive time. Diana Harwardt and Peter Kϋnne proved themselves to good to be beaten (8.761).

FEI European Championships for Juniors and Young Vaulters

It was an historic day for Denmark as Josephine Vedel Sondergaard Nielsen vaulted her way to victory, winning the Danes their first Junior gold medal, 8.621, with Hanne Hagen Hansen and Tophoejs Geleto Lieto. Mara Hofer delighted the home crowd and with a delicate performance she rose to the occasion and finished in second place 8.329. The bronze medal went to German youngster Amari Santamaria Diaz, 8.280. No mean feat for the thirteen-year-old.

The Male final had a more tense ending. Small errors crept in to the performances of the final competitors leaving everyone on edge ahead of the results. Jakub Roguski won the Bronze medal and the first FEI Junior medal for Poland, 8.115, only a fraction behind Germany’s Lukas Heitmann. Heitmann’s horse trotted at the end of the test before the final dismount, however he managed to complete the test in time and just held on to the Silver medal for Germany, 8.177.

The gold went to Sam dos Santos from the Netherlands and he now has a European title to add to his two world titles. Doemaar struggled a little however Sam’s impeccable body control saw him through, and he was the clear winner with 8.490. 

There are still four medals on offer tomorrow on the final day, which will climax with the Nations Team competition. As the energy rises, we will see who has the nerve to be crowned World Champions and the Ultimate team.

FULL RESULTS

On the third day of vaulting competition in Bern (SUI), Germany gave their all and were handsomely rewarded.

The first medals of the FEI Vaulting World Championships were presented in the Squad competition in one of the best ever finals. The Swiss squad were eye-catching and crammed everything into their routine, it was a pleasure to watch and won them the Bronze medal (8.267). The French went big on dismounts and individuality, but it was only enough for the Silver medal, 8.556, as the team from Germany combined high level intricate moves with a near perfect performance to take the gold medal and World title once again, aboard Ecuador 28 with Alexandra Knauf lunging (8.677).

Germany dominated the Senior Pas de Deux, due to a series of unfortunate events for the Italian pairing, Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella. They overbalanced in the build up to a very difficult move and fell from the horse, unable to recover their routine and their score, they are sadly out of contention. Diana Harwardt and Peter Kϋnne (GER) showed their skill and won the round with 8.666. They are ahead of compatriots Gisa Sternberg and Linda Otten (8.329). Currently sitting in third are Swiss duo Zoe Maruccio and Syra Schmid. With 8.263, they are on track to win their first FEI medal if they perform another solid round. 

FEI European Championship for Juniors and Young Vaulters

In an incredibly impressive and expressive class of Junior Males, Sam dos Santos (NED) now has a commanding lead. He showed impeccable body control throughout his Free Test, winning round one on a total score of 8.458. The German youngster Lukas Heitmann scored only a fraction behind the Dutchman today. His dramatic and flexible program boosted him into Silver medal position overnight (8.208). Jakub Roguski dropped one place, into third, after a penalty for exceeding the time limit. His first-round score is 8.157 and he is looking likely to receive a medal for Poland. 

There was a change at the top of the Female Young Vaulter leaderboard after the Technical tests. Despite performing well executed routines, the three Swiss contenders couldn’t find themselves in the top three. Mona Pavetic (GER) stole the lead from teammate Gianna Ronca. Pavetic was fluid throughout her performance and earned top exercise scores (8.292). She leads Ronca by only 0.2. The two girls, competing on Max lunged by Sarah Krauss, will go head-to-head in Sunday’s final. Slovakia’s Sara Solteszova showed a tidy test earning the third best score of the day and propelling her into third (8.042).

Arne Heers held his gold medal position for Germany in the Male Young Vaulter division. With a confident Technical program, he has extended his lead over the rest of the men (8.127). Tom Menand (FRA) was gentle and creative and keeps hold of second in the overnight rankings (7.896) just ahead of Germany’s Ben Lechtenberg who has crept closer to the silver medal (7.863). Austrian, Paul Ruttkovsky has put himself in a good position to potentially land on the podium on Sunday. He is fourth currently with a score of 7.838.

Germany’s Junior Squad, Fredenbeck blew everyone away in the Free test. With absolute precision and attention to detail they captivated the audience scoring a huge 8.654 and are absolutely running away ahead of the rest of the competition (7.801). The squad from Switzerland had some small errors leaving them in second place, 7.397, and Italy have improved their interim position, pulling up into third place after a creative freestyle (7.389).

The final Junior class of the day saw the first medals of the FEI European Championships awarded. The Junior Pas de Deux took to the stage and performed much better than the day before. There was no change at the top and Great Britain achieved their first junior medal since 2013 with Milly and Evie Jessett claiming the Bronze (7.967). First and second place went to Germany. Felix Wöhe and Mia Bury won the round today and the Silver medal (8.120) but they couldn’t catch Arne Heers and Mia Bury who took home the Gold (8.307).

The Post Finance Arena is proving to be a top-class venue for Vaulting competition, and the horses are excelling under the energetic atmosphere created by the vaulting fans. More medals will be on offer tomorrow in what is sure to be another nail-biting day of competition.

FULL RESULTS

The FEI Tribunal has issued its Final Decision in an equine anti-doping case involving four (4) Prohibited Substances.

In this case, the horse ANA KS (FEI ID 107CR49 /JOR), ridden by Ahmad Kan’Aan (FEI ID 10071407/JOR) and trained by Ibrahim Fare’Kan’Aan (FEI ID 10040454/JOR), tested positive for the Controlled Medication Substances Dexamethasone, Diclofenac and Meloxicam as well as the Banned Substance Etoricoxib, following samples taken at the CEI2* 120 in Amman (JOR), from 29-30 September 2023.

Neither the athlete nor the trainer were able to provide an explanation as to how those substances entered the horse’s system. The FEI Tribunal found that the presence of four Prohibited Substances in the Horse’s body, all of which have anti-inflammatory effects, is not only rare but also very disconcerting in terms of protection and welfare of the horses, and as such constitutes Aggravating Circumstances.

In its Final Decision, the FEI Tribunal imposed an ineligibility period of 30-months on both the athlete and the trainer, starting from the date of the Final Decision. The provisional suspension already served by the athlete and the trainer shall be credited against their respective ineligibility period. They were also each fined CHF 10,000 and asked to pay costs of CHF 3,000.

The parties can appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 21 days of receipt of the decision.

The full Decision is available here.

Notes to Editors:

FEI Equine Prohibited Substances
The FEI Prohibited Substances List is divided into two sections: Controlled Medication and *Banned Substances. Controlled Medication substances are those that are regularly used to treat horses, but which must have been cleared from the horse’s system by the time of competition. Banned (doping) Substances should never be found in the body of the horse and are prohibited at all times.

In the case of an adverse analytical finding (AAF) for a Banned Substance, the Person Responsible (PR) is automatically provisionally suspended from the date of notification (with the exception of certain cases involving a Prohibited Substance which is also a **Specified Substance). The horse is provisionally suspended for two months.

**Specified Substances

The FEI introduced the concept of Specified Substances in 2016. Specified Substances should not in any way be considered less important or less dangerous than other Prohibited Substances (i.e. whether Banned or Controlled). Rather, they are simply substances that are more likely to have been ingested by horses for a purpose other than the enhancement of sport performance, for example, through a contaminated food substance. Positive cases involving Specified Substances can be handled with a greater degree of flexibility within the structure of the FEI Regulations.

Information on all substances is available on the searchable FEI Equine Prohibited Substances Database.

With just days remaining until the start of the equestrian competitions at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024, the FEI has introduced the Be a Guardian initiative, which calls upon members of the community to fully commit to their duties as ‘guardians’ of FEI horses. 

Be a Guardian is the central message that unites the community around the FEI Action Plan that was developed from the recommendations outlined in the final report of the independent Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission.

Watch! Horse welfare is paramount – Be a Guardian! 

Set up in June 2022 in response to growing public concern over animal welfare, the Commission was tasked with addressing societal concerns about the use of horses in sport and creating a blueprint to future-proof equestrian sports. The Commission also provided advice and recommendations to the FEI to ensure equine welfare is safeguarded through ethical, evidence-based policy and practices.

The term 'guardian' marks an evolution in the FEI's narrative of the horse-human partnership, chosen to better represent the human role in caring for horses and to underscore each individual's responsibility for ensuring horse welfare.

“This shift in terminology is not merely symbolic; it signifies a fundamental change in our approach to equine welfare,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos explained.

“Guardianship precedes partnership, and meeting the horse's natural needs — such as sufficient eating time, social interaction, and exercise — cultivates trust, enabling a thriving relationship between horse and human. A partnership emerges when this trust and mutual understanding pave the way for sporting excellence.

“Through the concept of guardianship, our focus shifts to what is best for the horses, recognising them as unique and valuable beings deserving of human protection, trust, and respect. This evolution redefines the human role as that of a 'caretaker,' with a responsibility to ensure a good life for horses.

“How we frame the issue, shapes how we solve it. By embracing the role of ‘guardians’ for horses, we commit to acknowledging their needs, treating them with respect, compassion, and care, reinforcing our duty to these magnificent animals we live, work, and compete with.”

The Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 represent a significant opportunity for the equestrian community to further develop a culture of enhanced respect and ethical treatment within the sport.

With a comprehensive approach to equine welfare, which includes aspects like transport, accommodation, veterinary care, and post-event support, Paris 2024 is clear about what is required to put horse welfare at the core of the sport.

For the first time at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, a position of Equine Welfare Coordinator has been established, with Dr Richard Corde, President of the French League for the Protection of the Horse, appointed to this critical position. He will offer advisory oversight on animal welfare throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games, ensuring all stakeholders adhere strictly to FEI regulations. This new appointment marks a significant advancement in centralising oversight that was previously distributed among stewards, veterinarians, and Ground Jury members.

The FEI, Paris 2024 Organising Committee, and GL Equestrian have worked together to prepare the venue with well-equipped air-conditioned stables, ample outdoor areas, and high-quality footing in the main competition arena, the cross country and all the training arenas, ensuring the comfort and safety of the horses.

Special attention has been given to the seamless and comfortable transportation of horses to and from Versailles. Environmental conditions such as weather, heat, humidity, and air quality are carefully monitored to minimise stress and maximise the horses' well-being.

Stringent health monitoring protocols will be enforced before, during, and after competitions to assess the horses' fitness and maintain their physical and mental health throughout the Olympic Games. A dedicated team of qualified veterinarians and support staff will conduct regular health assessments, promptly addressing any issues that may arise with immediate veterinary care.

Following competitions, meticulous post-event care protocols, including adequate rest periods, will be strictly observed to aid horses in their recovery.

"We cannot prevent every issue, but if we follow these rules and encourage everyone to take responsibility based on our shared values, we can work hard to further improve excellent standards of horse welfare," stated FEI President Ingmar De Vos.

"As we prepare for the Olympic Games, we are eager to display our sport's beauty and our dedication to caring for horses responsibly. Together, we are committed to ensuring that every horse at Paris 2024 receives the care and respect they deserve."  

About Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) www.fei.org

The FEI is the world governing body for horse sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and was founded in 1921. Equestrian sport has been part of the Olympic movement since the 1912 Games in Stockholm. The FEI is the sole controlling authority for all international events in the Olympic sports of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing, as well as Driving, Endurance and Vaulting.

The FEI became one of the first international sports governing bodies to govern and regulate global para sport alongside its able-bodied disciplines when Para Dressage joined its ranks in 2006. The FEI now governs all international competitions for Para Dressage and Para Driving.

The atmosphere intensified in the Post finance arena, Bern (SUI) for the second day of the FEI Vaulting World Championship. Only hundredths of points separate the top competitors keeping anticipation high ahead of the final rounds. 

The power of the horse was the deciding factor in the Squad competition, which saw team Germany see off French and Swiss rivals to win the round on 8.166. Ecuador 28 lunged by Alexandra Knauf was clearly scored as the best horse outscoring the next by at least 0.5. The French team had some uncharacteristic errors, particularly with their stands, which affected their score and left them in second place (8.056). Only just behind France and with a powerful set of compulsories the all-female Swiss squad showed their quality taking the third spot with 7.904.

The men’s Technical Test was a masterclass. One after the other they entered and commanded the arena. Thomas Brϋsewitz was the first to level up the difficulty. In combination with excellent technical exercises he took the lead momentarily, scoring 8.378 for the test, 8.462 final score, retaining his third place from day one.

Theo Gardies went just ahead, 8.396, in the technical program and 8.524 overall, but he stays in second place after teammate Quentin Jabet stunned the audience and judges alike. With artistic highlights and an incredibly difficult routine he won the test and the round with a total score of 8.662.

For the females it was a similar story with a slightly different ending. Alice Layher, the young German vaulter, won the test (8.395) after displaying near perfect technical elements. It wasn’t quite enough to place her in the top three after round one, (8.286), but it is so close it doesn’t matter. 

A minor error in her backwards stand dropped Switzerland’s Nadja Bϋttiker into third overall, 8.328, allowing both Alina Ross (GER) and Eva Nagiller (AUT) to overtake. They both had difficult, well executed routines and finished in second (8.340) and first place (8.348) respectively. A thrilling prospect for Austria.

The final round is worth half the total score, and it is worth noting that Illona Hannich (SUI) is still very much in contention. She occupies 5th place currently on 8.189. In any case the pressure is even greater now as it is likely that whoever performs best in Saturday’s Free Test will take home the gold.

FEI European Championships for Juniors and Young Vaulters

Stalwart, Sam dos Santos displayed his signature style even in the compulsory test of the FEI European Championship. Rising to the top of the Junior Male table, despite a minor balance issue in executing his stand, he showed he is here to earn the Netherlands another gold medal, clearly out in front scoring 8.334, aboard Doemaar with Jinte Pierik lunging. 

Jakub Roguski gave Poland their first overnight podium position in this Championship. He currently sits in second place, 8.052. Completing the top three Junior Males is Lukas Heitmann from Germany (7.997). He is small but mighty and very neat.

The Junior Female Free Tests were superb. The Danish superstar, Josephine Vedel Sondergaard Nielsen extended her lead after an effortless performance of a high-level routine. She scored 8.733 in the Free Test and has an interim final score of 8.340. Poland’s Roksana Naumiuk delivered power and intrigue in her performance earning an 8.524 for the test and bringing her into fifth place overnight (7.953). 

Nora Sandberg Mϋller (SWE) improved her position, leap-frogging Germany’s Amari Santamaria Diaz she now sits in second (7.987) with Santamaria Diaz coming in third 7.968.  There was big movement within the Female competition and with the final Free Test round worth 50% the podium is far from decided.

As the atmosphere within the stadium rose, competition nerves led to unnecessary errors and some falls from the vaulters. The top three are clear of the rest of the field by 0.5, which is a huge margin to make up in the final round. British sisters Milly and Evie Jessett had some dazzle in their routine and used their individual strengths to their advantage earning a 7.645 and an exciting overnight third place. 

Germany currently occupies both top two spots. After a creative and dynamic routine, Felix Wöhe and Greta Helene Liebig are in second place (7.734) but teammates Arne Heers and Mia Bury have the lead by far.  They performed elegantly in sync scoring 8.268, and, barring disaster, they are on course to win the title tomorrow. 

There are medals to be won tomorrow in the Senior squad and Junior Pas de Deux. It will certainly be a matter of controlling the nerves of the athletes as the crowd becomes increasingly electric and the prospect of glory much more tangible.

FULL RESULTS

It was a great beginning for the Swiss as the FEI Vaulting World Championship 2025 got underway in Bern, (SUI). Switzerland’s Nadja Bϋttiker is the overnight leader in the female class with Frenchman Quentin Jabet ahead in the males. 

The luck of the draw saw all the top placed females perform in the second half of the competition. The leader changed frequently as one outscored the other by minimal margins. Alina Ross (GER) showed a confident and clean performance and raised the bar earning 8.323 from the judges. In the end it was only enough to place third.

Eva Nagiller entered right after Ross and despite a late horse change her new steed, Bastion, proved to be an excellent match and allowed her to steal the lead for a while scoring 8.384. To the delight of the home crowd, Nadja Bϋttiker exuded strength and poise, with her dynamic exercises near flawless she flew to the top on 8.466. The young german, Alice Layher, currently sits in fourth place 8.178.

Excellence was in abundance throughout the men competition, as the top 10 males all scored over eight points. Theo Gardies (FRA) took the lead early on. He showed incredible execution throughout his test, posting a hard to beat 8.653. His horse, Sir Sensation, was the highest scoring of the class. 

Germany’s Thomas Brϋsewitz and Jannik Heiland came close but each had a very small error and they could only manage third (8.546) and fourth (8.415) respectively. French favourite Quentin Jabet entered second to last and had to cope with a mildy unsettled Ronaldo. Andrea Boe worked hard to soothe and settle him from the middle of the circle, allowing Jabet to complete a not quite perfect compulsory test, but impressive enough to win him the round and place him marginally ahead of his teammate with a score of 8.698.

FEI European Championships for Juniors and Young Vaulters

In the FEI European Championships for Juniors and Young Vaulters, the Junior squads got off to an exciting start and Swiss team Montmirail gave the home fans something to smile about. They stormed into the lead, scoring 7.174 after a tight and tidy performance aboard Livanto Cha CH with Mirjam DeGiorgi lunging. 

Germany found themselves in second place on 6.948. They were not in complete harmony with Captain Claus and had some errors throughout. Just a fraction behind, the squad from Italy finished the compulsory test in third (6.891). Their horse Robert Redford 5 was not completely relaxed in the beginning, however Nelson Alcides Vidoni connected with him from the centre and allowed the team to show their best. 

In the Young Vaulter Male category, Frenchman Tom Menand entered first and laid down the gauntlet posting a score to beat of 7.768. It held until Arne Heers competed.  Representing Germany with his horse Cleiner Onkel T OLD and lunger Sven Henze, he was the only vaulter to score over 8 points, receiving 8.073 and taking the lead. His teammate Ben Lechtenberg completed the competition and the top three. Despite a collapse in his mount he finished on 7.691.

The female competition was a much closer affair but Germany took the top spot once again. Gianna Ronca scored 8.124, vaulting on Max, lunged by Sarah Krauss. Also on Max, Mona Pavetic (GER) performed excellent dynamic exercises taking her into second, 8.099. Noemi Licci brought Switzerland another overnight podium position and she sits close behind on 8.063.

The final FEI European Championship class of the day was the Junior Female compulsories. Josephine Vedel Sondergaard Nielson earned the lead for Denmark impressing the judges and scoring 7.947. The talent came early in the class of forty-four as Zara Cvetkovic showed her strength and precision gaining Slovakia their first top three finish for the day.  She lies third on 7.791. 

At only 13 years old and the youngest competitor in the individual competition, Germany’s Amari Santamaria Diaz showed her quality, with an excellent test she squeezed into second place on 7.897, only hundredths of a point behind first. The class is very close and so full of talent, we can expect some changes within the top ten vaulters after they have performed their Free Test tomorrow.

Tomorrow will see the start of the Senior squad competition as well as the Technical tests for the Senior individuals. With little between the top of the pack the pressure will be on and nerves will be tested. Be prepared for more brilliant vaulting and plenty of action, artistry and amazing horses.

FULL RESULTS

Image: Nadja Büttiker (SUI) performs with Rayo de la Luz during the FEI Vaulting World Championships 2024 in Bern (SUI). © FEI/Martin Dokoupil

It was a narrow race for the 2024 FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ title heading into the final leg at Falsterbo (SWE), with Germany and Denmark separated by just two points. 

But when it came time for the CDIO4* FEI Grand Prix test at the Falsterbo Horse Show, Germany didn't let the Danish get within 10 points of them. It was a convincing victory for the Germans on the day, which secured them a second consecutive series title.

Led by Chef d'Equpe Jonny Hilberath, the trio of Evelyn Eger (Tabledance 3), Helen Langehanenberg (Facilone Frh), and Carina Scholz (Tarantino 5) finished on a total score of 215.261. Denmark finished with a total score of 204.174, followed by The Netherlands (202.478).

"The result is very impressive. As a trainer and team captain, I'm very happy with the performance of my riders and of the horses, and for sure the results," Hilberath said.

"Everybody was riding in top form and with a lot of quality."

-Jonny Hilberath (GER)

Germany was the only team to have all three of its riders score above 70%, and in fact only one rider outside of Germany reached that threshold in the home nation's Tinne Vilhelmson Silfven (SWE), whose 70.000% was not quite enough to push Sweden up the leaderboard from fifth. 

"It wasn't that easy [to select this team], because we had last week at Aachen (GER), and we are in preparation also for [the Olympic Games in] Paris," Hilberath shared. "Carina has been here already, last year with the team, and I was trying to collect riders which I could feature more with younger or newer horses. For example, Helen is riding a new horse, and I thought it was a very good show for her to perform internationally."

Langehanenberg and Facilone Frh finished the class on top with their 73.674%—a personal best for the combination. The 12-year-old was making just his second start at the FEI Grand Prix level.

"I was super happy. I've only been riding him since the beginning of this year, and we have not so many competitions together," Langehanenberg shared."I think the horse has a lot of potential for the future. There's maybe no weak side, but we have to improve and grow together.

"The test today felt like a big step forward. I was super happy, even without seeing the results. It felt great and maybe the beginning of some nice shows together."

-Helen Langehanenberg (GER)

The youngest rider on the team, Eger also brought forward the youngest horse in 11-year-old Tabledance 3. The pair also recorded a personal best score in the Grand Prix with their 70.413%. Scholz, meanwhile performed as strongly as ever with her 17-year-old partner Tarantino 5, who has successfully returned to top-level sport after sitting out nearly two years from international competition between July 2022 and April 2024.

"Carina had a very good ride. The horse is not a spring chicken anymore, and he's very sensitive. He's rather sharp, and she managed so well," Hilberath said. "The horse was doing wonderful, and he had a break. It's so nice to see the horse coming back better into the sport, and [Carina] is such a hard-working rider."

The weather wasn't ideal, either, with significant rainfall impacting the event. The event schedule was moved forward as a result, but competition forged forward in inclement weather.

"We are very grateful that we had such good conditions for the weather. I think the performances of the riders and the horses has been very good today because of [the efforts of the staff at the show] and of the good footing," Hilberath said.

Germany ultimately finished the Nations Cup series how they started it, having also won the opening leg at Wellington (USA) in February, with three different riders. The nation's final point tally from the four events is 42. Denmark and Sweden also replicated their finishes from last season, finishing second (38 points) and third (33), respectively.

Excitement is building and anticipation rising for the FEI Vaulting World Championship for Seniors, and the FEI European Championship for Juniors and Young Vaulters that are returning to Switzerland for the first time since it was hosted in Bulle in 1986.

The competition will begin in Bern on the 17th July, and looks to be fierce, fun and filled with Vaulting excellence as the World’s best come together to fight for glory and stamp their names in the history books.

FEI Vaulting World Championship for Seniors

Germany presents a formidable trio in the Female competition, headed up by 2023 European Champion Kathrin Meyer, who has her sights set on a first World title. Her strongest competition comes from her teammates, 2023 Silver medallist Alina Ross and 2023 World Champion Young Vaulter, Alice Layher.  Layher has made the leap from the Young Vaulter division straight to the top of the Senior category, and her potential, strength and grace make her a force to be reckoned with.

Swiss Vaulters, Ilona Hannich and Nadja Büttiker, will attempt to disrupt an all-German podium finish and hope to capitalise on home advantage.  Both have the ability; Hannich won the European Bronze in 2023 and Büttiker took the same medal home in 2017. Mental strength and physical reserves will play an important part in their competition as both will compete in the Swiss squad and Hannich in the Pas de Deux. Sadly, Danielle Bürgi, a great Swiss talent, will miss out on the event after sustaining an injury in competition two weeks ago, however Swiss legend Lukas Heppler also will be representing the home nation. 

Eva Nagiller, Austria’s big hope, will compete alongside her trusted team of lunger Klaus Haidacher and his horse Idefix 25. Also entering with a strong partnership, developed over the last few years in preparation for this event is Kimberly Palmer (USA), and her Italian combination Rosenstolz 99 and Laura Carnabuci which may give her the edge and a chance to bring honours home to the USA. 

France are bringing their A Game in the form of 2023 European title holder Quentin Jabet with Ronaldo 200 and Andrea Boe.  His unique style, delicate Vaulting and ability to manage challenging situations with ease have set him ahead. Compatriot Theo Gardies, 2023 Silver medallist, will endeavour to pip him to the post and take the title with his own flair. 

Having successfully returned to competition since an injury to his foot two months ago, Jannik Heiland will be hoping to tackle the Frenchmen head on and improve on his 2022 third place finish. Fellow German, Thomas Brüsewitz, is hunting his first podium finish since 2019 where he won Bronze at the European Championships. With high flying, mind-blowing dismounts, Canada’s twenty-two-year-old Talmage Conrad is certainly one to watch.

In the Pas de Deux, Italy are bringing 2024 FEI World Cup™ Champions, Rebecca Greggio and Davide Zanella (ITA), to take on 2022 World Silver medallists Diana Harwardt and Peter Künne (GER). Both pairings present intricate routines and excellence in performance will be of the upmost importance to earn top scores. 

For the home team, Ilona Hannich and Li Lafer have an opportunity to improve on their 2023 European Bronze with teammates Zoe Maruccio and Syra Schmid still on the hunt for their first FEI medal.   As always, the Pas de Deux promises to be an incredible spectacle. 

2022 Squad World Champions, France, have re-established their team, and have received top marks at CVI’s this year. They face German rivals, Team Norka, for a rematch of the 2022 battle for the top and we can expect a thrilling competition.  Each present their own style, having adapted to the new rules reducing the time allowed for triples during the Free test.

Home-nation Switzerland will hope to reward their fans and scoop a medal, but they face firm challenges from both Austria and the USA. 
The Official Team competition will wrap up the event in a nail-biting finale as the top countries choose their most elite individuals to compete alongside their squad to be crowned the ultimate Nation. 

FEI European Championship for Juniors & Young Vaulters

The FEI European Championship for Juniors and Young Vaulters, held alongside the Senior Championship, allows the Vaulting youth to be inspired for the future whilst achieving their goals and showing their promise. 

The Junior Female class is packed with potential. After an unfortunate finish in 2023 Océane Gehan was on the cards to be representing France, but has pulled out this time due to injury.

Denmark’s superstar Josephine Vedel Sondergaard Nielson, 2023 World Silver medallist, has the ability to go one medal better, however 2023 World Champion Clara Ludwiczek (AUT) will endeavour to clinch the European title. Her teammates Dana Benedict and Antonia Mayerhofer could also rise to the top. Germany too have three hopefuls, Johanna Timm, Amari Santamaria Diaz and Laura Seemüller.
Fan favourite, double World Champion, Sam dos Santos (NED) has been making waves on the Senior circuit, but returns to Junior to compete in his final Junior Championship. He will be hard to beat, however, as Germany’s Lukas Heitmann, who impressed judges with his performance in 2023, and Fabio Ring will be tough competition.

Polish hearts are set on Jakob Roguski, who has been steadily climbing the ranks and nipping at the heels of the top Junior males.
Switzerland has great expectations in the Junior Pas de Deux as Plüss sisters Katharina and Valentina aim to show a harmonious program. Fighting for another medal, but with a different partner, 2021 Pas de Deux World Champion Arne Heers will perform together with Mia Bury for Germany, while Austria has two strong combinations entered, Flora Maurer and Sarah Koroschetz and Julia Alber and Eva Koren. Evie and Milly Jessett will make their debut for Great Britain.

Fresh from their Nations Team win at the CHIO Aachen, Germany’s Junior Squad, Fredenbeck, have driven the standard sky high; Austria and Switzerland will have to work hard to keep up. Sweden has their own score to settle after narrowly missing out on a top three finish in 2023.

Young Vaulters

The Young Vaulter category has proven to be a fabulous competition. With athletes moving through the age range regularly, Anna Weidenauer, World Bronze medallist, is the only medallist from 2023 eligible to compete. She faces stiff competition from Germany’s Gianna Ronca and Italian Giorgia Fanucci. Switzerland have  three mighty contenders; Noemi Licci, Michelle Brügger and Leonie Linsbichler.

The Male field is narrow, and success will go to he who has prepared the best and has the constitution to present three excellent tests. The main contenders are from the powerhouse nations. France have chosen Tom Menand and Louis Dumont, Austria’s top choice is Paul Ruttkowsky while German hopes rely on Ben Lechtenberg and Arne Heers.

There are a plethora of medals to be won, with respect and honour to be gained over five days of intense competition.  

FEI TV will live stream all the action here

A Coruña (ESP) has been confirmed as the host city of the FEI European Championship in the Olympic discipline of Jumping for 2025.

The event will be held between 16 and 20 July 2025 and it will be hosted at Casas Novas, a major hub of Equestrian sport in northern Spain and venue of a Longines FEI Jumping World Cup^TM qualifier since 2016. 

"We are delighted to have A Coruña as the host of this Championship, especially at Casas Novas, which is a symbol of equestrian excellence," FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde said. "We look forward to working together with the Organising Committee to deliver a top-class event.” 

The FEI Jumping European Championship will be part of the celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the creation of Casas Novas, which was established in 1999. A Coruña will become the third Spanish city to host the prestigious event, following in the footsteps of Gijón and Madrid.

Image Caption: Casas Novas equestrian centre, in A Coruña (ESP), will host the FEI Jumping European Championship 2025.

Image Copyright: Casas Novas