Brazilian Jumping: A Legacy of Excellence Continues with the Longines League of Nations™ 2024 Series

With the Longines League of Nations' inaugural season kicking off in February 2024, over the next few weeks we will take a closer look at the 10 nations that have qualified to compete to be the first winner of the new trophy.  

Today, #10 in the rankings, we talk to Brazil...

Brazil has a rich and storied history in the world of Jumping, marked by a legacy of remarkable achievements and notable successes.  

Most recently, finishing fourth at the Longines FEI Jumping Nations™ Cup Final at the Real Club de Polo in Barcelona this year, where they secured their ticket to the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Over the years, Brazilian equestrians have consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for the sport, earning them a place on the global stage with Pan American games glory, but also when Rio de Janeiro hosted the Olympic Games in 2016.

From the iconic partnership between rider and horse to the pursuit of excellence in training and competition, Brazil's Jumping community has carved a remarkable path in the annals of equestrian history.

According to an official survey by the Brazilian Equestrian Federation, the number of active athletes with valid ID in national and international competitions held in Brazil has consistently grown over recent years, with Jumping leading the popularity ranks according to registrations. This is partly a nod to the cultural phenomenon of leading Brazilian Jumping athletes such as Rodrigo Pessoa, and recently the winner of the 2023 Pan American games, Stephan Barcha.

As Brazil gears up for the upcoming 2024 Longines League of Nations™ series, the nation stands poised to showcase its prowess once again as the only Southern hemisphere country to qualify for the top ten competing nations. With this qualification and participation underscoring the country's commitment to maintaining its position as a powerhouse in international Jumping; we speak to Carola May from the Brazilian Equestrian Federation.

Brazil has a rich history in equestrian sports. How do you see your participation in the Longines League of Nations™ contributing to the legacy and tradition of Brazilian Jumping?

"Competing in the Longines League of Nations™ series is undoubtedly of great importance for Brazilian equestrianism, not only for our international riders competing at a high level, but also as an encouragement for the future generation of the sport. 

Jumping is unquestionably the Olympic discipline with the largest number of enthusiasts in our country, and...

"Having the opportunity to compete alongside the best teams, represents a unique chance with positive impacts on the sport’s popularity and recognition"

Carola May

(BRA)

Brazil has produced some exceptional equestrian talents. How are you working to nurture and develop the next generation of riders through its involvement in the Longines League of Nations™ series?

"It all begins with the grassroots work. With the Brazilian Youth Championship in high-performance categories, selective competitions, and participation in the South American Youth Championship, which usually occurs annually, our young talents learn to experience the pressure of international competition and develop team spirit. The Longines League of Nations™ signifies the culmination of this preparation, much like the Pan-American Games, World Championships and Olympic Games."

Equestrian sports have a passionate following. How do you plan to engage and excite fans throughout the Longines League of Nations™ series, and what initiatives are in place to ensure that the Brazilian audience is part of this global equestrian celebration?

"Access to live streaming and potential TV broadcasts serve as tools to engage our Jumping enthusiasts who naturally seek to follow the exciting competitions in equestrianism. Simultaneously, promotion on social media and specialised channels are also crucial in enhancing the Brazilian audience’s participation in this global series."

The Brazilian team's journey promises to be a thrilling chapter in the unfolding narrative of the Longines League of Nations™ series, as they aim to add new chapters to Brazil's illustrious equestrian history. 

Be sure to catch all the action on FEI TV as the series kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 11 February.