Historic wins for host nation Uzbekistan at the 23rd FEI Jumping World Challenge Final

The 23rd edition of the FEI Jumping World Challenge took centre stage last weekend at the Universal Jumping Stables in Tashkent’s scenic Bostanlik district (UZB), drawing competitors from 12 countries and four continents. Representing the spirit of FEI Solidarity, 20 athletes, many experiencing their first international event, gathered to vie for the title and international victory, but ultimately Uzbekistan took the honours, marking a significant milestone in not only their own book, but in the competition's.

Host nation Uzbekistan claims historic victory

For the first time in FEI Jumping World Challenge Final history, the host nation emerged victorious in both the Final and Farewell classes, to the thrill of local fans new and old. Mirzahid Musaev clinched the Final with Casamira, while Akbar Sharipov took the Farewell class on La Blue Rouge, with both athletes delivering the only double clear rounds of the day.

The Final’s jump-off saw four competitors vying for the top spot after securing their first clear rounds. Top qualifier, Dominican Republic’s Giorgia Anna Ieromazzo Latour and Jangcy L, set the fastest jump-off time, but an unlucky pole ultimately handed Musaev the victory, underscoring the skill required in the Challenge and the exciting nature of the competition.

Mirzahid Musaev reflects on an emotional win

At 36, Musaev’s Olympic aspirations are strong, fortified by his first international win for his country. Musaev praised the event's organisation - a sentiment echoed by all competitors - and highlighted the demanding nature of the competition, which necessitated creating a winning bond with an unfamiliar mount, the 7-year-old Dutch Sporthorse mare Casamira, over what amounts to only a few hours of acclimatisation. 

Feeling very emotional on his win, he spoke to the wonderful team camaraderie and support from his fellow nationals, emphasising that the opportunity to compete against other countries and win for Uzbekistan's honour is a great privilege, and one he hopes to recreate. 

Podium placements highlight international talent, global growth, and FEI Solidarity success

The Final’s second-place position was secured by the Dominican Republic’s Latour, last year’s runner-up and 2019 winner, who won both qualifiers with Jangcy L, a Westphalian mare. South Africa’s Victoria Lynne Greyvensteyn, a debut international competitor at just 17 years old, took third with Polish gelding Jodcasall A-Z while her compatriot Divan Bosman, 18, earned bronze in the Farewell class, with Singapore’s 21-year-old Christie Paige Nair taking silver in that class.

These achievements exemplify FEI Solidarity’s efforts to develop young riders on an international stage, fostering competitive growth and excellence in equestrian sports worldwide.

FEI Jumping World Challenge: a gateway for emerging equestrian talent

Since its inception in 2001 under the Solidarity Fund, the FEI Jumping World Challenge Final has fostered accessible, high-level competition for athletes from countries where international sport is not easily accessible, creating opportunities for travel, learning, and honing international competition skills. The event’s continued success relies on the dedication of the FEI, national federations, the horse owners who generously lend their talented equines, and the invaluable friendships formed along the way.

Catch the replays on FEI.tv, and join us in anticipation of the 2025 season as the FEI Jumping World Challenge continues to champion equestrian excellence worldwide.