Hickstead is where showjumping began for me. I first came when I was 12 or 13, and won the 13hh working hunter ponies, and have had the bug ever since.

I remember watching John Whitaker and Nick Skelton warming up and thinking, “That’s what I want to do”, and I always think if that happened to me, it will happen to someone else.

I absolutely love the tradition of it too. The Bunns understand the importance of the venue, and not only do they keep improving it, they keep up with prize money and facilities.

There was some uncertainty when they lost the Longines sponsorship, but having that freedom has made the event even better, with title sponsor Agria coming on board, and getting individual spots; such as Unex sponsoring the speed classic.

The world number one rider, Kent Farrington, was in action this year, with an as good, if not better, field than you’ll find in a Longines League of Nations. It’s testament to the venue that riders like Marcus Ehning want to return every year, and I think that will continue for generations. I always make trying to get picked for Hickstead my priority.

“It was brilliant to pull it off”

People ask what’s the most important competition in the sport now when there is the Global Champions Tour, the Rolex and Longines grands prix and the Nations Cups. Unless you’re fortunate to have a big string of horses, you have to back one and for me, the Nations Cups take precedence.

It’s the format I really enjoy, although I probably wouldn’t say it at the time. The Nations Cups have been around for ever, and they’re so easy to understand. As long as we stay strict with ourselves and don’t change too much, I think they will stay that way.

My good friend Conor Swail and I jumped the only double clears in this year’s Agria Nations Cup at Hickstead. He’s another rider I’ve always looked up to, so to be up there with him at this level was brilliant. But I keep going back to the history and significance of Hickstead, and this is always the week I work towards, so it was brilliant to pull it off.

Medoc De Toxandria is a very sensitive horse and you have to do everything on his terms. He’s 14, and he’s never felt better. It’s taken me a long time to get him into a system that works for us but I wasn’t surprised he produced that in the Nations Cup.

I went in with a lot of confidence, whereas maybe in the past two years, I had some uncertainty and never rode well enough. Now I feel we’re in a good partnership, and I rode as I should have, and as he deserves.

Let’s hang on to equine talent

In terms of the sport overall I was fortunate to have a long chat with CEO of British Showjumping (BS), Iain Graham, recently. It’s not as simple as I thought, and I take my hat off to him. The situation is not as black and white as everybody thinks, and there’s logic behind what’s going on. He agrees it’s not perfect, but BS has only a certain amount of control.

We could all throw our arms in the air and say this and that but I don’t think we really are in much trouble. We’ve had four golds from the past four Olympics and you can’t argue with that. I think we just accept what we are at the moment, and what we’re becoming is a top producer of young horses.

It takes time to evolve but buying young horses and producing them is what Britain is becoming known for. We just have to be able to hold on to them, or get a top British rider to buy them, so we can see the benefit.

Ideally, we would try to get some kind of syndication, as in the Netherlands, to keep top horses in this country. If you had a pot for 10 British-bred horses to go to the top 10 riders, it would be a massive benefit.

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There’s no need for football to come home, as showjumping has done it, again, was the verdict as Great Britain triumphed in the 2026 Agria Nations Cup at the Royal International Horse Show.

The team had been victorious in 2023 and 2024 but having just been pipped by Germany last year, came back to win with a fence in hand.

Jessica Mendoza (Summerhouse), Adrian Whiteway (Chacco Volo), Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria) and Ben Maher (Catelly) finished on a total of eight faults, two fences ahead of Ireland, with Canada third on 24. Tim and his superstar campaigner Medoc jumped one of only two double clears to help seal Britain’s third win on home soil in four years.

Chef d’equipe Di Lampard said it was good to be back at the top.

“You talk about teamwork, this is what it’s all about, isn’t it?” she said, paying tribute to the teams behind the team, and her right-hand man Stanny Van Paesschen.

“I was quietly confident this morning, and yes, I had a bit of a nervous jitter towards the end of the second round – but I had every confidence in them.”

2026 Agria Nations Cup: Britain flying from the off

Britain was on flying form from the start; the first combination in, Jessica and her own 11-year-old gelding – a half-brother to her championship ride In The Air – jumped a textbook clear, sure and rhythmical, to give the team the best possible start, especially as it was the only clear in the first rotation of riders.

By the time Adrian came in, Britain’s was still the only clear. Chacco Volo did not touch a pole, but inexplicably stopped at the water, and the resulting time-faults meant they finished on a total of 20. Third in was Tim and the Gredleys’ and Unex Competition Yard’s 14-year-old, who were never in danger of touching a fence.

The luck had not been with Ireland in the first round; David Simpson and his Hickstead Derby hero Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve and Shane Breen and the versatile Scarteen had clocked up an uncharacteristic eight faults apiece, and team debutante Michaeli Byrne and MSH Claregalway four. But Conor Swail’s clear with Clonterm Obolensky put the team total at 12 and the pressure on by the time Ben came in with new ride Catelly.

Again, Ben and the 14-year-old owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright did not touch a pole – but again it was the water that was an issue, as Catelly went into it with a back foot.

This meant the team had a first-round total of four, a fence ahead of Brazil and two ahead of Ireland and the UAE. European champions Belgium and France were in seventh and eighth place, with 21 and 24 faults respectively, so missed out on the second round.

This rotation of riders led to a shake-up of the team order; Canada had finished round one in fifth place on 16 faults but Chris Pratt and Ideaal ES jumped clear and Kyle King (Kayenne Z) and Nicole Walker (Panter JVH) for four, so Amy Millar and Gaiete D’Elle’s five – an unlucky clip of the last fence and a time-fault – could be dropped for a total of 24. This was the same total as the UAE, who clocked up 12 in each round, but Canada’s faster time secured the podium. Brazil added four fences down in total to finish fourth.

In the second round, Jessica and Summerhouse clipped the troublesome early double, and Chacco Volo had an uncharacteristic two rails, which meant the pressure was on Tim and Medoc, who went round like the pros they are to leave everything up.

So in the end, it all came down – as it often has here before – to Ireland and the Brits. David and Pjotr had jumped for four, Michaeli eight and Shane and Scarteen a beautiful clear. So had Conor and Oliver Glancy’s 10-year-old clipped a single rail, or gone a second over the time, it would have been a home win without Ben needing to jump again. But their round was fast and faultless, the only other double clear secured, and leaving all the pressure on Ben’s shoulders. He could have one fence, two would have meant a jump-off with the Irish.

But Catelly wasn’t going to touch the water this time, and he flew everything else, clearing the last oxer to rapturous applause.

Ben paid tribute to the team at Hickstead, for the perfect going, sponsors Agria and the crowd.

“I’ve only had Catelly four months, so he was thrown in the deep end a bit, and we’re still making the odd mistake,” he said. “It was a bit of a unique fault I had in the first round; I don’t think I’ve ever seen a horse with a back foot in a water jump! So I had to make a bit of a plan B and got away with it.

“Then to come back, it was great to be able to finish it for this amazing team. I thought they were lying to me when I went in, that I had two jumps in hand and they’d told me one so I didn’t get too sloppy So I need to pay a bit more attention but Catelly jumped amazing, and showed what he can do. I’m very lucky to have the team of horses I have.”

Coming back to win

Jesssica and Adrian both jumped on this team last year and both were delighted to return and secure the win.

“I’ve had Chacco a long time, we’ve done it all together, and I’ve had an amazing season,” Adrian said. “This is actually probably the worst day we’ve had, unfortunately. But he’s an amazing, amazing horse. Unlucky today but that’s showjumping, and we’ll come back next time.”

Tim and Medoc were on the winning team here in 2023 and 2024, and Tim was delighted by the hat-trick, adding that Hickstead is the “holy grail” of showjumping.

“It’s where the showjumping all began for me, and I really want to give back to them every single year,” he said. “So to come here, jump a double clear and win on the team is brilliant, what it’s all about.

“Medoc got my career exactly back where I wanted to be, he’s been brilliant. Today was always the plan, we’ve been building towards this, and it’s come off. It’s very rare that plans come off, but it’s a nice feeling when they do.”

“This is for Bob”

Di added that the win was dedicated to the late legendary course-builder Bob Ellis

“We really wanted to win this year for Bob,” she said. “We all learned round his courses, they’re renowned all round the world. So talking to his daughter, we said we want to win at Hickstead. His memorial is in August and she said ‘I won’t be able to come [to Aachen], but bring a medal back’. Bob’s looking down on us.”

Hickstead director Edward Bunn thanked Agria, as without such support these shows cannot happen, and his team for their tireless weeks of work since the Derby meeting to ensure the ground was as good as it could be.

“Congratulations to Team GBR, to Di and her team,” he said. “Football doesn’t need to come home – showjumping does it for them.”

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A stellar quartet of British showjumpers is bidding for glory in this afternoon’s Hickstead Nations Cup (Friday 24 July).

A team win on home soil is one of the pinnacles of the sport for any rider, so expect some fierce competition when the flags go up for all eight nations competing in the CSIO5* Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain at 2.15pm today in Hickstead’s International Arena.

Hickstead Nations Cup: who is on the British team?

So who has chef d’equipe Di Lampard selected for her Hickstead Nations Cup team this afternoon?

Two members of the Great Britain squad heading to the showjumping world championships next month will be flying the flag, Ben Maher, who was on the gold medal-winning team at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and Adrian Whiteway, who will be making his senior championship debut.

Ben brings forward his relatively new ride Catelly, who was bought by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright for the triple Olympic gold medallist just three months ago, and they were part of Great Britain’s winning Longines League of Nations (LLN) squad in Rotterdam last month.

There will be a great reception for the hugely popular duo of Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo, who will be making their final team appearance before heading to Aachen as part of Great Britain’s World Championship squad. It’s been a fairytale couple of years for 35-year-old Adrian, who made his five-star Nations Cup debut here last year with Deborah Cox’s 13-year-old stallion and a win at Hickstead would be the perfect send-off.

US-based Jessica Mendoza is back in Europe for the summer and has made it on to the non-travelling reserve list for the showjumping World Championships in Aachen. She is riding her own 11-year-old bay gelding Summerhouse, with whom she has been competing since early 2024, and was also part of the winning team in Rotterdam this summer. They too were on the team that was just pipped to second by Germany in this Nations Cup in 2025.

Tim Gredley was part of the celebrated team that brought showjumping home in the Hickstead Nations Cup of 2023 with the country’s first Nations Cup victory on home soil for 13 years. His trusty partner, 13-year-old Medoc De Toxandria, is a veteran of two championships – one with Tim and one with Matt Sampson – and countless Nations Cups.

Good luck to the British team and we look forward to another cracking Nations Cup at Hickstead.

British Nations Cup team for Hickstead 2026

• Harry Charles with nine-year-old Fighting Phil, owned by Harry / 16-year-old Casquo Blue, owned by Harry’s father Peter Charles and Stall Zet.
• Ben Maher and 14-year-old Catelly, jointly owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright.
• Jessica Mendoza riding 13-year-old In The Air, owned by Permilla Amman, Georgia Kipp, Jessica Mendoza, Kristi Mitchem and Melissa Skowlund / 11-year-old Summerhouse, owned by Permilla Amman, Georgia Kipp, Jessica Mendoza, Kristi Mitchem and Melissa Skowlund, AKA “The Moms’ Club”
• Tim Gredley with 13-year-old Medoc De Toxandria, owned by Tim’s wife Rachel Gredley, his father William Gredley and Unex Competition Yard.
• Adrian Whiteway with 13-year-old stallion Chacco Volo, who is owned by Deborah Cox.
• Chef d’equipe: Di Lampard

The Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain takes place at 2.15pm this afternoon, Friday 24 July, at Hickstead.

How to watch the Hickstead action

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Great Britain’s showjumpers triumphed in a hard-fought Longines League of Nations (LLN) at the CHIO Rotterdam.

After some fluctuating fortunes, a thrilling battle ensued between the British, the USA and the Netherlands, rumbling into a nail-biting jump-off. Less than half a second separated the three representatives against the clock, but it was Harry Charles, at just his third show with new ride, the 12-year-old mare LT Holst Freda, who secured victory by just 0.07sec. The 26-year-old rider topped the podium alongside his younger sister Sienna Charles riding the family home-bred Chawton, Ben Maher (Catelly) and Jessica Mendoza with Summerhouse.

“We have very cool, very focused riders,” said chef d’equipe Di Lampard. “Their life is dedicated to their horses and completely devoted to the job. We have had unbelievable consistency on the podium in these past few weeks and this win secures qualification to the LLN final.

“I’ve every confidence in this squad that we keep rotating and we’ve got a great team here. It was a wonderful day of sport and a fantastic course that was fair to the horses as well. To finish with three teams in the jump-off. Wow.”

Siblings Harry Charles and Sienna Charles lead the charge to glory

Ben Maher acted as the British team’s pathfinder as 10 teams tackled Bart Vonck’s course, just touching the tape of the water jump in round one with another relatively new ride, 14-year-old Catelly, owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright. Jessica Mendoza’s eight faults was the discard score as Sienna Charles posted just four faults on firm favourite Chawton. Anchor rider Harry Charles then produced a vital clear with the New Zealand-bred mare LT Holst Freda, who came to the Olympic gold medal-winning Brit after competing at the recent World Cup Final with Julie Davey.

“It was down to the Charles family to get us into round two and they did it admirably,” said Di after the team finished seventh at the halfway point.

Having made the cut as one of the top eight teams to progress to the crucial second leg, with three riders per team and no drop score, Ben, Sienna and Harry shrugged off any pressure and delivered a hat-trick of clears to finish on a team score of eight. This forced the jump-off against Marilyn Little and La Contessa of USA, and Swiss rider Jason Smith (Picobello van’t Roosakker).

A masterful performance

“It was masterful how Harry rode the mare for the jump-off,” said Di Lampard. “Going first, he didn’t waste time anywhere; he threw down the gauntlet, riding beyond his years and his turn back to the vertical was pivotal. When we talked about it before the jump-off, we called it ‘a Bob rollback’,” she said; a nod to the late course-builder Bob Ellis’s trademark ingredient.

“Ben is still getting to know his horse, but he set up round two perfectly. Sienna rode amazingly, picking up where she left off last year after finishing fourth in the grand prix – this partnership loves this venue and it was a wonderful experience for her.

“It was a fantastic day and, to come back from seventh shows how close these Nations Cup competitions are. It was a big shock for France and Germany not to make the cut. The results can change completely. Everything goes with three counting riders in round two; the pressure is on.”

Harry Charles summed up: “That’s the great thing about this format – we were on the cut line after round one but everyone rallied together and we managed to get ourselves into a jump-off.

“All credit to my teammates and my incredible horse, Freda. To walk into an atmosphere like that is so impressive. I’m very proud of her and I’m so lucky to have her.”

After that penultimate qualifying leg of the LLN, the final chance for teams to qualify for the final in Barcelona rests in St Tropez- Gassin in September.

The British celebrations continued on Sunday when Ben Maher topped the grand prix riding Point Break.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Grand prix superstar Con Quidam RB, who helped the Netherlands win team silver at the 2022 World Championships, has retired from sport aged 20.

His rider Sanne Thijssen confirmed the KWPN stallion’s retirement after they came second in a CSI4* 1.55m grand prix in Vejer de la Frontera, Spain, on 15 March.

“The fact this chapter is coming to an end is indescribable,” said Sanne.

Con Quidam RB was produced as a young horse by Bulgaria’s Rossen Ratichev, who competed him in the six-year-old final at the World Breeding Championships in Lanaken, finishing 13th. “Connie” joined the Thijssen family in spring 2013 – ridden by Sanne’s father Leon, before Sanne, then 16, took on the reins in August 2014.

Over the next 12 years Sanne and Connie climbed the ranks together, amassing an impressive 19 grand prix victories and €1.4m (£1.2m) in prize money. They competed at the 2015 and 2016 young rider Europeans, helping the Netherlands win silver at the latter.

In 2021 they were on the team that won gold at the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona, and in 2022 the team silver at the World Championships in Herning. Some of their many other highlights include winning the Longines Global Champions Tour grands prix in Valkenswaard and Madrid and the Rotterdam CSIO5* grand prix.

Sanne said Connie taught her “to fight and not to give up” – and “always gave 200%”.

“You could sense so well when it needed to happen. When it was an important day. When we wanted to show the world what we could achieve together,” she said.

“The same applied to these final rounds. We fell short by 0.15 seconds for a final victory, but that second place felt just as good as a victory.

“I am sure if it had been up to you, this would not have been the last one. But to protect your golden heart, your lion heart that will always keep going, we have decided that it is time. Time for your well-deserved retirement.”

Sanne said there was “joy and sadness” in Connie’s retirement.

“Joy, because you deserved this so much, and we were able to conclude it so beautifully. Sadness, because I am going to miss you so much at competitions. Not just the performances we had together in the ring, but also your character and demeanour. Everything that made you you,” she said.

“Sometimes it seemed as if we could communicate with each other. You felt exactly how I felt, and I knew exactly how you felt. We made each other stronger and complemented each other where necessary. Two peas in a pod.”

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The Longines League of Nations (LLN) 2026 begins on Friday (13 February) with the first leg taking place in Abu Dhabi in the UAE.

Ten qualified teams, plus host nation UAE, line up for the first of four qualifying events for the LLN Final in Barcelona in October, so which horses and riders are we going to see in action this week? The answer is an exciting mix of Olympic veterans and rising stars and we can’t wait for the LLN team action to resume.

Here are the shortlisted runners and riders for the first leg of the Longines League of Nations.

Longines League of Nations: rising stars to Olympic veterans among key contenders

With a prize fund of €700,000 on offer at each LLN qualifying event and a further €1,600,000 up for grabs in the Final in Barcelona, it’s no surprise to see an A-list field in action in Abu Dhabi this week. Here are the teams announced for Friday’s two-round Longines League of Nations. All four riders from each country will contest round one, with only the top eight teams progressing to round two, where just three of the four athletes will be picked to jump again, without the luxury of a drop score.

Great Britain

A “youthful quartet” is how Great Britain’s team is described, with Joe Stockdale (Ebanking), Jack Whitaker (Jack JL) and LLN debutant Sandy McLean (Calixte Heartbreaker Z) lining up alongside team stalwart Tim Gredley (Medoc de Toxandria). The nation arrives in Abu Dhabi as reigning champions, having won the Final in Barcelona last year.

“We’d certainly love to retain that Longines trophy this year, and will be giving it our all to top the podium in Barcelona come October,” says chef d’equipe Di Lampard. “I’d like to think we’ll start the year a bit stronger than in past years and have strong hopes for a podium finish in Abu Dhabi or Ocala to get some good points in the first half of the season.

“Arriving at Rotterdam with extra pressure to get points last year wasn’t ideal but we were fortunate and secured our spot for Barcelona before the St Tropez leg,” she continues. “I learned by watching my fellow chefs who had to wait until Saint Tropez to see if they qualified for the Final. As chef d’equipe, competing for your country means everything – it’s why I do it. To be able to select a team to represent King and country gives me huge pride and I’m honoured to do it.”

Ireland

Winners in Abu Dhabi last year , Ireland now has new jumping manager Jessica Kürten in the driving seat. The green jackets will be sported by Mikey Pender (HHS Los Angeles), 21-year-old debutante Niamh McEvoy (Olympic ‘GL’ ‘FVD’) and brothers Shane (BP Arctic Blue) and Trevor Breen (Highland President).

“The Longines League of Nations is a prestigious series as only the best 10 teams in the world can participate,” says Jessica. “I particularly like the fact that it goes on the rankings of the athletes, including one under-25 athlete. The format of the competition makes it very dynamic and exciting for fans who are watching – and quite nerve-racking for those involved! But I’m very much looking forward to Team Ireland’s campaign this year.

“Ireland is a country known for its affinity with horses. Many of our Irish athletes have spent time riding horses since they were very young, have a very natural way with the horse and how they ride them. This partnership and bond is always an advantage to them, especially when in competition environments where we must make big ‘asks’ of our partners.”

Belgium

The reigning European champions are represented by Rik Hemeryck, Jos Verlooy, Wilm Vermeir and Annelies Vorsselmans, with team manager Peter Weinberg at the helm.

“Ambition and consistency are built on the same foundation: trust and team spirit,” says Peter. “We encourage athletes to be ambitious, but always within a collective framework where the team result comes first.

“Clear expectations, mutual support and confidence in one another allow athletes to perform at their best while maintaining the reliability that is essential in team competitions. For Belgium’s Red Musketeers, success has always come from riding with the team, not just for individual results.”

Structure and reliability: core principles in LLN

USA

It’s all about girl power for Team USA in Abu Dhabi, with Natalie Dean, Callie Schott, Sarah Segal and Skylar Wireman having been picked by chef d’equipe Robert Ridland.

“The opportunity to view and access top international sport is hugely motivating to inspire the next generation of athletes, and we have seen that firsthand with the Longines League of Nations leg in Ocala,” he says. “For our younger athletes, my advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity to watch and learn from these types of events. Watch the warm-up, the horsemanship, the course walks, how athletes work with their teams – it all builds towards the bigger picture of being capable of putting the pieces together on these stages in the most important moments.”

Germany

The inaugural winners in 2024 are back in force with Marco Kutscher, Daniel Deusser, Sophie Hinners and Jörne Sprehe.

“Structure and reliability remain core principles of our approach,” says chef d’equipe Otto Becker. “At the same time, the sport continues to evolve. We respond by regularly reviewing and refining our processes, including season planning, performance analysis and communication within the team. The aim is to preserve proven strengths while integrating new ideas where they add value.”

France

More top names line up for France with Simon Delestre, Antoine Ermann, Olivier Perreau and Jeanne Sadran picked for the season opener in Abu Dhabi.

Chef d’equipe Édouard Coupérie says: “With the Olympic Games approaching, where teams are made up of three pairs, it is essential to be able to adapt to this format.

“LLN is a highly competitive circuit, where results throughout the year and in the Final are a goal for every country – France will need to perform better in the 2026 final!”

Netherlands

Chef d’equipe Wout-Jan van der Schans has selected Kim Emmen, Frank Schuttert, Leopold van Asten and Jur Vrieling to don the orange jackets in the first leg of the LLN.

“Fortunately we have many, many good athletes, and also quite a few relatively young horses coming up to complement the seasoned professionals,” says the country’s newly appointed high performance director Laurens van Lieren. “This, of course, is the long-term plan for ongoing national development and performance excellence. So we expect to have a good group of combinations to select from, which makes us very hopeful for this season.

“We are incredibly grateful to have our athletes consistently at this global podium, showcasing their skills and talents to an ever-growing global audience. We look forward to the development of our athletes and horses throughout this season, and we invite everybody to come and cheer for the (future) stars of our lovely sport!”

Switzerland

After a disappointing 2025, we see some new names lining up for round one with LLN debutant Jason Smith, Romain Duguet, Gaëtan Joliat and Barbara Schnieper.

“Looking ahead to 2026, the focus will be on further strengthening our leading athletes so we can be competitive both in the Longines League of Nations and at the Longines FEI Jumping World Championship in Aachen,” says Swiss chef Peter van der Waaij. “The biggest progress has been made in developing the next generation, and I am convinced we will benefit from this approach in the coming years.”

Italy

Returning for its second Longines League of Nations season, Italy is set to be represented in Abu Dhabi by team veteran Piergiorgio Bucci, Giacomo Casadei, Paulo Paini and Clara Pezzoli.

“Our goal is to maintain a strong level of competitiveness in order to continue participating in the Longines League of Nations, because this circuit provides an excellent opportunity to compete in five-star events, which are not always accessible for our athletes,” says Italian team selector, Stefano Cesaretto.

Brazil

The experienced duo of Luciana Diniz and Pedro Junqueira Muylaert are joined by first-timers João Victor Castro Aguiar Gomes de Lima and Luiz Felipe Neto de Azevedo.

“Balancing experienced athletes with emerging talent is a central pillar of Brazil’s long-term strategy,” explains chef d’equipe Pedro Paulo. “While senior riders provide stability and leadership, younger athletes are progressively integrated into the high-performance environment.

“The Brazilian team is known for valuing a relaxed yet focused atmosphere. One informal tradition is the selection of a song for each event, chosen by the riders to represent that particular competition. That song often becomes part of the team’s routine, played while preparing in the stables. It helps create unity, reinforce team spirit, and maintain a positive mindset throughout the event, offering a small glimpse into the team’s culture behind the scenes.”

UAE

Chef d’equipe William Funnell leads the host nation’s three riders in Abu Dhabi, hoping to build on their tremendous second place finish of last year. Representing the UAE are Abdullah Mohd Al Marri, Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi.

After Abu Dhabi, the LLN series moves to Ocala in USA, then Rotterdam in the Netherlands and finally St Tropez-Gassin in France before concluding in Barcelona, Spain.

You can follow all the Longines League of Nations action with Horse & Hound, with H&H showjumping editor Jennifer Donald bringing you all the news from Abu Dhabi this week.

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“I’ve been on many teams over the years but the strength and attitude that these guys have together is fantastic,” credited Ben Maher after he and team-mates Harry Charles, Donald Whitaker and hero of the hour once again, Scott Brash, lifted the trophy for the Longines League of Nations Final in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday (5 October).

British showjumpers were riding the crest of a colossal wave leading up to the final curtain falling in Barcelona, notching up a remarkable hat-trick of team successes, which started with a long-awaited victory in the BMO Nations Cup at Spruce Meadows, continued to the final LLN qualifier in St Tropez last month, before the celebrations rang out once again in Spain for the British dream team.

“Today means the world,” said chef d’equipe Di Lampard. “The riders were so consistent at the beginning of the year and since Rotterdam it’s been go, go, go – three wins on the trot is just amazing. They make my job very easy.”

Longines League of Nations Final Barcelona: a first jump-off

The unique format for the LLN always makes for enthralling viewing but this final included the only missing ingredient so far – the series’ first jump-off to decide top honours. Having completed on equal team scores of 16 penalties, the scene was set for Ireland and Great Britain to battle it out in a thrilling showdown against the clock.

Billy Twomey, just eight months into his partnership with the athletic Jumping Jack Van De Kalevallei (Kannan x Chin Chin) set off first for Team Ireland. After performing some beautifully executed turns over another masterful Santiago Varela course, Billy saw a long stride to the final fence and pressed the accelerator. There was a collective gasp as the 10-year-old stallion gave it a hefty rattle, but luck was with the Irish side and they crossed the finish clear in 38.42sec.

In contrast to this relatively new combination, Scott Brash and Hello Jefferson have long reigned as one of the most successful partnerships in the world. The Scotsman had had the opportunity to seal victory for Great Britain with a clear in round two, but the world number five, fresh from victory in the world’s richest showjumping competition at Spruce Meadows last month, was left shaking his head in dismay after faulting at the middle element of the triple combination.

But there was no doubting this magnificent pair against the clock as Scott executed a perfectly judged round. Accelerating through the midway section allowed him the timely luxury of a perfect set-up to the tricky final fence, which the ever-obliging Jefferson soared over effortlessly, flying home with a quarter of a second to spare on the clock.

Great Britain, who didn’t qualify for last year’s inaugural final, were the newly crowned champions of the LLN Final 2025.

“I thought Billy did a fantastic job and really stuck it to us,” reflected Scott, surprisingly competing at his first LLN. “Thankfully I’m sitting on a quick horse and we managed to leave the jumps up. Hello Jefferson stayed calm – horses don’t really know what’s at stake so I just tried to stay focused and follow the great advice from my team.

“The team’s had an amazing year and it’s fantastic to finish on this note, so all credit to the guys, they’ve been amazing.”

Di added of her “icing on the cake” victory in the LLN Final Barcelona: “We’re well practised at having three in the final round who all count. It’s an amazing competition and I know organisers wanted a jump-off so it was great to have one.”

Di Lampard: “I have the best riders in the world”

Speaking of the country’s resurgence in recent years, Di continued: “There are some fantastic riders in the world, but I have three of the best and others coming up to join them. We had a couple of years where we were rebuilding. It happens in every rider’s career. Thankfully we have come back very strong.”

Pathfinder Ben jumped for four faults in round one on Enjeu De Grisien before delivering a crucial clear in round two.

“Enjeu stepped up amazingly – we had a small mistake in the first round but put that right,” he said. “With someone like Scott going last, it’s definitely easier.”

Harry Charles was also stepping back up to top level Nations Cups with 12-year-old Sherlock, owned by his father Peter Charles and Stall Zet.

“To walk back into a team that’s winning so much is very nice!” he said.

Donald Whitaker and Millfield Colette, who have contributed so much to Britain’s success and medal tally this year, were the drop score in round one with eight faults, sitting out round two.

“She’s been fantastic all year so I can’t blame her for not being totally on it today,” he reflected.

Two riders shared the double clear bonus – Bertram Allen of runners-up Ireland riding Qonquest De Rigo and Nicola Philippaerts of fourth-placed Belgium on Katanga VH Dingeshof.

The best athlete of the season was named as Piergiorgio Bucci representing LLN debutants Italy, with his groom Yulia Khokhryakova and horse Hantano also awarded.

Brash and Hello Folie are simply superb again

British celebrations began on Friday night when Scott Brash landed the grand prix of Barcelona riding superstar mare Hello Folie owned, like LLN hero Hello Jefferson, by Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham and looked after by groom David Honnet.

With 11 combinations coming forward for the jump-off, a high-octane thriller ensued but Scott and the 10-year-old Luidam mare cannoned round the magnificent Olympic arena at heart-stopping speed to top the leader board and earn the 99,000 euro top prize.

Scott had endured a barren period of five-star grands prix coming into 2025 but has gone on to land six already this year with Folie, Jefferson and Hello Chadora Lady.

“Folie jumped incredibly on Friday – she loves the job and feels like she’s getting more comfortable at that height now,” said Scott. “This was special.”

You can read the full report from the Longines League of Nations Final in Barcelona in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 9 October.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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All roads lead to Barcelona, Spain, this week (2-5 October) for the Longines League of Nations (LLN) final where Great Britain’s showjumpers are among the nine countries who have qualified for Sunday’s two-round decider.

So who will be lining up for this year’s event?

The LLN Final in Barcelona: runners and riders

Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard has selected a star-studded dream team for Sunday’s LLN Final in Barcelona. They arrive at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona off the back of a glorious victory in the final leg of the LLN qualifiers in St Tropez-Gassin, as well as a historic victory in the BMO Nations Cup at Spruce Meadows.

“We’ve had a really good season, but we’ve got better and better,” says Di.

Among the five riders representing Great Britain in Barclona this year are the trio of gold medallists from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games – Scott Brash, Harry Charles and Ben Maher.

They will be joined by Donald Whitaker, who played a key role in helping Great Britain win team silver at the European Championships in La Coruna, Spain this summer. The final squad member is relative five-star team newcomer Adrian Whiteway, who was part of the polished winning team in St Tropez-Gassin recently on his LLN debut.

Horse-wise, Donald lines up with his great partner Millfield Colette, the 12-year-old mare he jointly owns with Reitsportanlage Dagobertshausen and with whom he finished 10th individually at the European Showjumping Championships and were celebrated last year as the King George V Gold Cup heroes.

Adrian brings Deborah Cox’s hugely consistent 12-year-old stallion Chacco Volo. While Adrian joked after helping the British team secure victory at the LLN in St Tropez that “Time-faults are our forte, if you like – we’re pretty good at getting them!”, they are equally proficient at clear rounds and that’s what counts in these top tier team competitions.

A full house of Olympic gold medallists

Fresh from success in the world’s richest showjumping competition at Spruce Meadows, reigning Olympic team gold medallist Scott Brash has kept his options open with his choice of horses. He is opting to bring both 16-year-old Hello Jefferson and breakthrough star Hello Folie, both of whom are owned by Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham.

Harry Charles returns to the team fold with his father Peter’s and Stall Zet’s Sherlock, The 12-year-old was last seen jumping double clear for a third place finish in the CSI5* Rolex grand prix at the Stephex Masters at the end of August.

Completing the quintet of British riders is world number two Ben Maher, who also has a choice of two horses in Barcelona, with Enjeu De Grisien or Point Break.

Who are Britain’s rivals?

The other teams to have qualified for Sunday’s LLN Final in Barcelona from the four global legs in Abu Dhabi, Ocala, Rotterdam and St Tropez are Team USA, hosts Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, Germany, France and the newly crowned European champions Belgium. Germany returns to the Spanish city as title-holders, having lifted the inaugural trophy in dramatic style in 2024.

Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake has selected Neal Fearon, Billy Twomey, Bertram Allen, Mikey Pender and Sean Monaghan for the Spanish event this week.

Among the other international showjumping superstars in action will be European champion Richard Vogel and the Olympic champion Christian Kukuk.

The four-day CSIO Barcelona kicks off on Thursday 2 October, with the 1.60m grand prix taking place on Friday evening (3 October). Horse & Hound will be on hand to bring you all the latest news with the full report appearing in the 9 October issue of the magazine.

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For the first time in nearly 30 years, Great Britain’s showjumpers have triumphed in the BMO Nations Cup at the Spruce Meadows Masters, Canada.

The British quartet of Matt Sampson (Ebolensky), Ben Maher (Enjeu De Grisien), Joe Stockdale riding Ebanking and Donald Whitaker with Millfield Colette were the stand-out performers throughout the two-round competition, jumping three double clears between them.

They thrilled the crowds at this, the venue’s 50th anniversary, topping the leader board on a zero score. Great Britain’s victorious team were joined on the podium by runners-up Germany and third-placed USA, who both finished on a team score of four but were separated by cumulative time.

Great Britain’s Nations Cup showjumping victory after a 30-year hiatus

Great Britain last won the BMO Nations Cup in 1996 when the “Fab Four” of Nick Skelton (Showtime), Geoff Billington (It’s Otto), Michael Whitaker (Two Step) and John Whitaker (Welham) lifted the coveted trophy at the Calgary venue. Since its inauguration in 1977, Great Britain has now triumphed 11 times in the world famous BMO Nations Cup.

This time around, chef d’equipe Di Lampard led the next generation to victory with triple Olympic gold medallist Ben, last night’s record-breaking six bar winner Joe and European silver medal-winning rider Donald all jumping double clears. The contest was taken right to the wire, however, and victory was only sealed as the final rider of the competition, Donald Whitaker with Millfield Colette, brushed off immense pressure to produce yet another foot perfect performance and claim the €150,008 (£130,000) first prize, as well as the towering BMO silverware.

“The spirit of this team is second to none, it’s come together so well this year,” said Di Lampard. “Three members of this team [Donald, Ben and Matt] are the European silver medalists and we’ve been building, building… But to have the win here at Spruce Meadows – I’m so proud of them all.”

There was further British success on the penultimate day of the Spruce Meadows Masters, when Charlie Jones and Capitale 6 won the CSI2* grand prix. The action concludes with Sunday’s CPKC International grand prix presented by Rolex where showjumpers will be competing for the richest prize the sport has ever seen.

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Riders from the top two teams had falls today (8 August) before the Dublin Nations Cup, but they fought back to stand on the podium in this prestigious class.

The Dutch lifted the Aga Khan Trophy for the third time, claiming their first win in this Nations Cup at the RDS Dublin Horse Show since 2010.

Pathfinder Frank Schuttert took a fall when his mare, Isis, slipped on the way back from the pre-class parade.

He explained: “My horse was just a bit fresh and it was quite slippery for horses with their shoes on – it wasn’t her fault, just a thing that happened. I’m actually still recovering from an injury; four months ago I broke my hip and I fell on the exact same spot today.”

Frank went on to have 12 faults in the first round and eight in the second, but his team-mates – Kevin Jochems (Camilla Van De Helle), Willem Greve (Grandorado TN NOP) and Harrie Smolders (Mr Tac) – all delivered double clears to secure victory for the Netherlands.

“We kept fighting,” said Frank. “I was disappointed with my riding, I think I was maybe a little bit too much in my head and my horse is inexperienced. She did great and I had a lot of confidence in my team-mates. They did a fantastic job and it was a joy to watch them. Next time personally, I will fight back. But congratulations to the rest of the team and it was a great result.”

Germany took second in today’s Dublin Nations Cup, their effort spearheaded by a double clear from Sandra Auffarth and Quirici H. Sandra’s effort was particularly impressive as she had a fall in the warm-up for the first round. She was permitted to take a little extra time to recover, so jumped a couple of horses later than the original running order.

Sandra is a former eventing world champion and a multi-medallist in that discipline, most recently taking team silver and individual bronze at the 2023 European Championships on Viamant Du Matz, but she has not evented internationally this year and has been focusing on showjumping. She won a five-star grand prix at Falsterbo with Quirici H last year.

Sandra was backed up today by Christian Ahlmann (Blueberry), Marco Kutscher (Catelly) and new European champion Richard Vogel (Cloudio), who all jumped one clear round and had four or eight faults in their other performance.

Ireland took third, with double clears from young talents Tom Wachman (Tabasco De Toxandria Z) and Seamus Hughes-Kennedy (ESI Rocky) drawing huge cheers from the home crowd.

Britain finished fifth, with Joe Stockdale on Ebanking, Matt Sampson riding Daniel and Donald Whitaker with Millfield Colette all delivering one clear round and one four- or eight-fault round. Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo had one down on each showing.

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Britain came so close to winning a third consecutive Agria Nations Cup on home soil at the Agria Royal International Horse Show – but in the end took a hard-fought second-place finish to Germany.

The team of Ben Maher (Enjeu De Grisien), Adrian Whiteway (Chacco Volo), Jessica Mendoza (Summerhouse) and Georgia Tame (Be Golden) finished on a total of 12 faults, a single pole behind winners Germany, and five faults ahead of Belgium, completing the same team podium as at the European Championships a week beforehand – just with the first and third swapping places.

“It’s fantastic to be on the podium,” said British Equestrian showjumping performance manager Di Lampard. “It was close in the end, and we had new riders again; it’s even bigger when they step up in a team for their home Nations Cup, and I couldn’t be more delighted with how they’re progressing.”

Britain had ended round one in third place on eight faults; first and second in respectively, Ben and Adrian had jumped superb clears but Jessica and Summerhouse’s eight for a foot in the water and a rail down had to count as the luck was not with Georgia, who finished on 16. Germany was on a team total of four; dropping Marcus Ehning’s (Priam Du Roset) eight, they had clears from Rene Dittmer (Corsica X) and Marco Kutscher (Catelly), so only had to count Stefan Engbers’ (Baju NRW) four for clipping last element of the triple combination.

Ireland had also gone into round two on four faults, thanks to clears from David Simpson and his 2023 Hickstead Derby winner Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve and Sean Monaghan and Toyger. Cian O’Connor (Canbella Blue PS) and Jordan Coyle (Chaccolino) had a rail each but with one of those the discard score, and Belgium in fourth on nine faults, it was all to play for in round two.

Ever the ultimate horseman, Ben jumped another clear with the super 11-year-old gelding owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright. Adrian, making his five-star Nations Cup debut with Deborah Cox’s big-striding scopey stallion whom he has produced since he was four, came back in flying form but was unlucky to clip the narrow Uffington White Horse vertical for four.

“I’m thrilled,” Adrian said. “I think we were unlucky; we did exactly the same as in the first round, but that’s showjumping, and for our first attempt, I’m over the moon. Ten years ago this show, I went in that ring for the first time and won the winter novice final, last year I scraped into the five-star classes, this year I’m on the team. It’s been a hell of a year.

“I’m pretty level-headed but this is really special; I’ve watched this competition since I was a kid and to be on the team, and not mess it up, is a bit surreal. He’s an incredible horse; I’m so proud of him, happy with the result and so grateful to Deborah for all her support.”

Rene and Stefan had clocked up another clear and four for Germany respectively so Jessica knew she had to go clear. And she and her own 10-year-old gelding came back in top form to jump a faultless round and keep Britain in the mix. There was the brief prospect of a jump-off – which Jess would have been the one to contest – as Marco and Catelly again jumped clear for Germany, but although Georgia rode beautifully, the FGH Deckers and RE Deckers-Blom’s 10-year-old looking full of jump and class, she clocked up eight faults to seal second, which meant Marcus Ehning did not have to jump again.

Di paid tribute again to the strength in depth in British showjumping, after two silver medals – and four riders in the top 12 – at the Europeans, and this result a week later.

“We’re steadily getting stronger,” she said. “Ben was masterly, Jess came back to jump a fabulous clear and kept us in the hunt, and I couldn’t be more pleased with Adrian. This is encouraging – the future is looking bright!”

A special moment

German chef d’equipe Otto Becker said the team was delighted.

“But first I want to thank the Bunn family,” he said. “For us Germans, Hickstead is always special, and it means a lot to win here.

“And the most congratulations and thank you to my team. They did an amazing job today, and rode lovely rounds. It’s tough to win here; last week we were third and we were happy with that, but we are more happy to win here today.”

Marco said it had not been the plan to jump Catelly in the Nations Cup, but he had had a bad fall from Aventador S in the opening international class, so swapped rides.

“So we changed the plan, and I’m very satisfied with my horse,” he said. “He’d never jumped an open water, so I was a bit doubtful, and now very happy being double clear and winning this Nations Cup with my teammates.”

Belgium added eight to their first-round score to finish on 17; Niels Bruynseels and Origi VD Vosberg jumped the only clear so although the team could drop Annelies Vorsselmans’ (Trezeguet) eight faults, they had to count four apiece for Roy van Beek (Cavoiro) and Frederic Vernaet (Paulus-L). But this was enough for them to climb from fourth to third, as the luck was not with Ireland in round two. Cian and David had two rails each and Sean and Jordan one apiece, which meant a total of 20, and fourth place.

“Our greatest supporters”

Hickstead director Edward Bunn added his congratulations to the German team.

“It’s been nine years since they last won here, but they’ve been here for every Nations Cup; they’re our greatest supporters, so it’s good to see them win.

“Congratulations to Kelvin Bywater and Ben Townley on their course; I thought it was a very fair course and produced a great result, and importantly, Vicki Wentworth from Agria for their continued support of this fabulous competition. Without sponsors like Agria, we wouldn’t be able to invest in Hickstead, keep putting money into the facilities and making it one of the best venues in the world.”

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It’s been a busy week of news in the world of international showjumping, not least for the Irish who have been celebrating victories in nearly every corner of the globe.

We also pay tribute to a remarkable horse who, after years of second-itits has finally found the key to success and, it appears, there’s no stopping him now.

Read on for this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results

Showjumping news: a remarkable transatlantic team winning double

Fresh from celebrating Ireland’s four-star team success at Thunderbird Show Park in Langley, Canada, last week, showjumping chef d’equipe Michael Blake swooped into La Baule, France to lead another quartet of Irish riders to victory five days later in the five-star Barriere Nations Cup.

Cian O’Connor riding Bentley De Sury, Bertram Allen (Qonquest De Rigo), 23-year-old Seamus Hughes Kennedy on ESI Rocky and Tom Wachman (Tabasco De Toxandria Z) finished on a perfect zero score, all four contributing clear rounds to keep Belgium and Brazil at bay.

“That was phenomenal. We came here with really high expectations but when we saw the start list, with some of the world’s biggest names in opposition, it put us back in our box a bit,” said Michael. “We knew how good we were, though, and we knew that if we kept jumping clear Belgium would have to match us and so would everybody else. The lads were magnificent and kept on ramping up the pressure on the rest, and eventually they couldn’t live with us.

“This competition is one that’s escaped us for a few years and I had it on my bucket list so I’m thrilled,” he added. “Obviously, it’s been a great week, having won last Sunday in Canada, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Michael paid tribute to “incredible riders” Cian and Bertram, and was “especially” proud of young guns Tom and Seamus.

“They have come through our youth programme and have gained valuable experience through the EEF series, and that showed today as they delivered at the highest level,” he said. “The last time we won here Seamus was eight years old and Tom was six! It shows how strong this programme is, that these two lads performed so well and we could have Shane Sweetnam here as our fifth rider.”

Great Britain finished fifth on a team score of 16 penalties, represented by Donald Whitaker on Millfield Colette, Jessica Mendoza with In The Air, Robert Whitaker (Vermento) and anchorman Scott Brash with Hello Folie.

“There were some very good performances, it was a good result in a strong field and some partnerships are definitely coming forward for the European Championship selections,” said Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard.

“After competing in America, Jess’s horse is getting more into a rhythm in Europe now. Donald was unfortunate, his mare jumped a Nations Cup double clear in Abu Dhabi and they did well going out first to open with a clear; this partnership is getting stronger and better. Robert’s Vermento will only get better on grass. He’s proved himself in the World Cup Final but was a bit strong in the first round.

“Scott’s mare Hello Folie learned a lot in her first Nations Cup and I was delighted the way she improved over the two rounds,” added Di. “ She has been produced superbly and coped very well.”

Scott and Hello Folie went on to finish fifth to victor Daniel Deusser (Otello De Guldenboom) in Sunday’s Rolex grand prix, and Great Britain’s Millie Allen and Quick Diamant HR triumphed in Saturday’s CSI5* accumulator.

• La Baule results

Derby victory is written in the stars

Swiss showjumper Steve Guerdat exclaimed “At last!” after winning the La Baule Derby with Easy Star De Talma. Jessica Mendoza was best of the Brits in third on Disa DM 42.

“I had the feeling that everything was lining up and that this was going to be my year,” said Steve, who finished runner-up in this class last year and, drawn last this year, knew that a clear round would clinch victory. “I decided to keep in a good rhythm through the first two-thirds of the course and, if I was still clear, to play it a bit safer towards the end.

“My horse loves this competition and so do I.”

Showjumping news: Coyle doubles up for a third week

The green jackets of Ireland were back in the winner’s enclosure at Spruce Meadows, Canada, where Daniel Coyle bagged his third double in as many weeks, this time riding Incredible, while his team-mates Conor Swail and Darragh Kenny were also successful.

Darragh’s victory came with the appropriately named mare Lightning in a speed competition, and Conor completed his first five-star victory lap of the season with One Edition. Matt Sampson flew the British flag with success in a 1.30m riding Don Quentin.

“I can’t say enough good things about Spruce Meadows,” said Daniel.

The grand prix went to Canadian veteran, 60-year-old Mario Deslauriers with S&L Quartro Van De Meerputhoeve.

• Spruce Meadows results.

If at first you don’t succeed…

For years, Harrie Smolders’ mighty partner Monaco looked set to be remembered as the horse who showed remarkable consistency but always finished second, notching up so many incredible five-star results, without quite winning the big one.

But all that has now changed and the Dutch rider’s latest triumph with the 16-year-old son of Cassini II came in the €500,000 Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix of Cannes. Simon Delestre of France finished runner-up with Cayman Jolly Jumper and Maikel van der Vleuten completed the podium riding O’Bailey VH Brouwershof NOP.

“Incredible Monaco, once again so consistent – he’s one of a kind,” said Harrie, who collected a golden ticket to the LGCT Super Grand Prix in Prague at the end of the season.

“The atmosphere is unbelievable here in the evening with the crowd, the horses also feel this atmosphere and they give everything they have. We saw a very big track today and it was exciting right until the last rider and the last jump.”

• LGCT Cannes results.

British grand prix success

And finally in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, hats off to Great Britain’s Graham Gillespie, who landed the CSI3* 1.55m grand prix at Sentower Park, Belgium, with his great partner Veneno.

• CSI3* results from Sentower Park.
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Graham Fletcher has busy been watching Nations Cup action and shares a favourite story involving a canny Irishman...

My son Olli was back in British team action last weekend after a nasty injury had sidelined him for three months. We finished third out of 12 teams at Peelbergen in the Netherlands to qualify for the Nations Cup semi-final at Deauville.

It really was a game of two halves; at the end of the first half, we looked well and truly out of it. Taisie de Gruchy’s recent good form had got her into the team, but when La Presley CJS took an unusual exception to the water at fence four, it was game over for her as she became the drop score.

It’s always much harder when you’re playing with a team of three, but the Brits made a real fight back in the second round. Harry Charles was very unlucky to have the last fence down on Kannandillo, a relatively new ride for him.

Millie Allen produced a second wonderful clear on Clearround Il Mondo Z, while Olli and Hello William also jumped clear to secure third place for the team.

But the plaudits go to Millie. Although she won many medals at youth level, she was riding on her first senior Nations Cup team at 27 years old. And what a great job she did riding Karel Cox’s good horse, which she has brought on through the ranks. This looks like a top-class partnership.

Millie’s amazing week continued with second in the grand prix and winning the leading rider of the show award. I knew her grandfather, the late Dick Thorpe, very well and to say he would have been a very proud man would be an understatement.

Going full circle

There’s a saying that history keeps repeating itself. Even in my lifetime, I’ve seen it happen. When I first started travelling to continental shows, I found it fascinating that every country had its own character.

Although when competing at internationals you absolutely must focus on the job in hand, in my formative years overseas, shows were much longer than they are now. Most ran for a week and Aachen and Toronto went on for 10 days, so I usually found a bit of time to explore the surroundings.

In those days, it was striking how our European neighbours were much less prudish than us. I remember going for a sauna in Germany – to find it was mixed. As they all sat there in their birthday suits, I thought to myself how I’d never seen one of these in North Yorkshire!

At most of the shows back then, the loos were used by everyone – or gender neutral as they would be called now. So I suppose things have gone full circle.

But to switch on the news now and see the daily horrors of death and awful injuries in wars that shouldn’t be happening, then to hear people pontificating about who should use which loo – it’s just shameful.

Wit of the Irish

One of my favourite stories of the year so far concerns international Irish rider Sean Monaghan, who was catching a flight to Dublin with Ryanair.

As he went through the final boarding gate, a thrifty stewardess noticed Sean was carrying his rucksack plus a separate bag containing his riding hat.

“You’ll have to pay for the extra bag,” the firm-looking crew member called out.

As we all know, Ryanair might be a low-cost airline but extra add-ons are very expensive. So just as the stewardess was demanding the extra money, Sean took his riding hat out of the bag and put it on his head.

“You can’t do that, you know,” was the reprimand.

“But I have to,” said Sean, “I’m a very nervous flyer…”

Quite what the Irish owner of Ryanair and successful racehorse owner Mr Michael O’Leary would think of that, I don’t know. But I do know that the only person who can outwit a canny Irishman is another Irishman!

● Have you had any funny experiences flying with equestrian kit? Let us know by writing to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we head to the iconic Grand Palais on the Champs-Élysées in the centre of Paris, where top-tier showjumping makes a welcome return after several years. There was much excitement across the pond too, where, in Florida, the second leg of the Longines League of Nations produced a high-pressure finale, resulting in the narrowest of winning margins.

Read on for a round-up of this week’s leading international showjumping news stories and results.

Showjumping news: iconic venue makes welcome return

After a hiatus of several years during which the Grand Palais was transformed into an Olympic sporting venue for Paris 2024, top-flight showjumping made a welcome return to the iconic venue, on the Champs-Élysées in central Paris.

Under the breathtaking glass roof, the prestigious Saut Hermès took place over three days and Sunday’s feature grand prix was won by Simon Delestre with Cayman Jolly Jumper, finishing just ahead of Great Britain’s Robert Whitaker riding the brilliant stallion Vermento.

Robert and the Blatchfords’ 12-year-old stallion were drawn first against the clock, producing a double clear in 41.70sec. But France’s Simon Delestre triumphed in a time of 41.21sec, marking a historic third victory in this prestigious class.

“You can sense the weight of history at this venue,” said the in-form Simon, who won the Rolex grand prix at the Dutch Masters the previous week.

Robert said: “Simon was too quick, but I have no regrets.”

Great Britain’s Allana Clutterbuck (Vykinbay) and Claudia Moore (Hardesther) finished second overall in the Les Talents Hermès team competition.

• Saut Hermes results

USA claim victory in showjumping team thriller

With a vocal home crowd to propel them, the US squad of Lillie Keenan (Argan De Beliard), Aaron Vale (Carissimo 25), Laura Kraut on Dorado 212 and McLain Ward with Ilex delivered a dazzling victory in the second leg of the Longines League of Nations (LLN) in Ocala, Florida.

“To win on home soil and to have everyone see one of the best venues in the world is so special, because we all share an incredible sport,” said 28-year-old LLN debutante Lillie, who referred to Argan De Beliard as her “trusty team-mate”. “The more pressure the better for us.”

But in a dramatic evening of twists and turns, the contest remained nail-bitingly close at every stage and Germany were left ruing a first-round time-fault which kept them one point off the victors in the final standings. USA’s victory was only sealed with a final double clear from final rider McLain Ward (Ilex), marking a first LLN success for the United States.

World number seven McLain, who spent four weeks on the sidelines after a fall in January said: “The drama at the end is a testament to the format – it makes for excellent sport and competition.

“When Sophie Hinners [Germany’s final rider] jumped clear, I got a smile on my face and thought, ‘OK, game on’. This is what we do – you focus and this is what you live for.”

Belgium finished third with 13 faults, equal with Ireland who missed out on the final podium place by just one second when the two teams were split by accumulated times.

“We set very high expectations of ourselves, so obviously we’re disappointed,” said Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake, who picked Darragh Kenny (Eddy Blue), Cian O’Connor (Bentley De Sury) and 20-year-old Tom Wachman with Tabasco De Toxandria Z as his trio for round two; Daniel Coyle and Incredible sitting it out after a four-fault tally in round one.

“Some of the poles that dropped were ones that we ordinarily wouldn’t have, but that’s jumping. There were some real positives out there and plenty to build on,” added Michael.

Great Britain repeated their Abu Dhabi result of sixth. Pathfinders Ben Maher and Dallas Vegas Batilly returned from an eight-fault first round to stay faultless in round two, while Jessica Mendoza (In The Air) hit a rail in each round and anchor rider Harry Charles (Casquo Blue) jumped clear in round one but added four penalties in round two. GB’s LLN team debutant Charlie Jones, 26, produced a super opener for just four faults on Capitale 6, but was on the sidelines for round two.

Chef d’equipe Di Lampard said, “It was a tough competition with strong teams and a strong course but everyone handled it well.

“The team were so unlucky; we were four faults away from third place and a clear from Jess or Harry in the second round would have clinched it.”

Di credited Charlie’s “unbelievable” performance.

“He had an early rail at fence two but kept it together to come home on four faults, all credit to him, he was outstanding.,” she said. “It is a shame with this format he couldn’t go again.”

• LLN results

Olympic champion lands grand prix

After a nine-way battle between some of the titans of the sport, the reigning Olympic champion Christian Kukuk landed Thursday’s $350,000 Lugano grand prix at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.

Riding the hugely exciting mare Just Be Gentle, with whom he jumped double clear in the LLN, the German rider set an unbeatable target from first draw. Ireland’s multi-medallist Cian O’Connor came closest with his own Iron Man but next-generation talent was hot on their heels, with 25-year-old French rider Nina Mallevaey (Nikka VD Bisschop) and 20-year-old US competitor Mimi Gochman (Inclen BH) in third and fourth respectively, the top five rounded out by the mighty combination of Henrik von Eckermann and King Edward.

“She’s as sharp as a lion and in the ring she just wants to go fast,” said Christian of the Dutch warmblood by Tyson. “I’m excited for the rest of the year with her.”

• Lugano grand prix results

Showjumping news: “We’re over the moon”

Finally in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we head to Wellington, Florida. As the Winter Equestrian Festival reaches the final furlong, 20-year-old US rider Ansgar Holgers Jr landed the biggest success of his career in the $200,000 KASK CSI4* grand prix with Pixel-K Van’t Kattenhey.

“Any win feels nice, but this is definitely the icing on the cake,” he said, after beating Spencer Smith (HHS Seattle) and Shane Sweetnam (Gilona AO) to the top of the podium.

Ashlee Bond was among the other winners this week, riding Night Wish to victory in the WEF Challenge Cup. Their partnership hasn’t been plain sailing, however.

“He had a rearing issue and he was quite opinionated,” she said. “I worked with Leo Rauscher and he spent two weeks with him and completely turned this horse around. I’m really proud of the work because this was almost a lost cause. The fact that we’re here a year after he did his first 1.40m is really special. My goal is for him to do the FEI World Championships next year at Aachen, and the LA Olympics is my end goal. I think this horse has a good shot at jumping clear every day. I’m working backwards from three years to today.”

• WEF results
• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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In this week’s international showjumping news round-up we head to Wellington, Florida, where Irish teenage sensation Tim Brennan has everyone talking. There’s also the latest Nations Cup contest to read about and this week the Longines Global Champions Tour of 2025 kicked off in Qatar, where a whizzy mare stole our hearts for the second year running.

Read on for this week’s international showjumping news and results round-up.

Showjumping news: Irish teenager is living the US dream

Remember the name, because Tim Brennan is a real rising star of the sport. Having jumped with great success on youth teams in recent years, the Kilkenny 19-year-old has made the trip to Florida to contest his first Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). In this season’s prestigious BrainJuice under-25 series, he’s been in flying form and sealed overall victory by landing the penultimate grand prix riding his own Diadema Della Caccia.

“She has the heart of a lion,” Tim said of the Italian-bred Diamant De Semilly mare he’s been riding for five years.

The pair topped a competitive six-way jump-off and were cheered ringside by Tim’s family who were visiting from Ireland.

“She’s deadly careful,” said Tim of the flying grey mare. “She will jump anything for you once you ask her and I just have to be on the ball. She’s taken me all the way up through the ranks in Ireland and now we’re lucky enough to bring her out [to Florida].

“I was always thinking about coming out here; it’s a great experience to get more mileage under my belt. I’m looking forward to carrying this experience home, hopefully for a good year.”

Tim is based with John Roche while in the US, who credited his teenage pupil for having “a good eye, a good feel and a strong bond with Diadema Della Caccia”.

“A good grey mare will try for you. He gets on very well with her,” said John, who also credited Tim’s groom Juan Luis “Guicho” Rebollo for his help. “This series brings great development. For juniors or amateurs, it gives great opportunities for team involvement, and there’s no one route to success. I can’t say enough positive things about the division.”

• BrainJuice Under 25 Semi-Final Grand Prix results

Nations Cup serves up team thriller

Nine teams came forward for Saturday’s $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup at Wellington International’s WEF and it was won by the all-female US team of Natalie Dean (Acota M), Carly Anthony with Heavenly W, Charlotte Jacobs riding Playboy JT Z and Laura Kraut with Tres Bien Z, making her 90th Nations Cup appearance for USA.

“When Robert told me who the team was, I was really pumped,” said Laura. “These three amazing riders have been on fire for a while now, not just recently but for years. The way they rode the first round, it was textbook. I think building towards the Los Angeles Olympics we have three exciting young girls here that I think have a strong chance if things go right.”

Senior team debutante Carly Anthony was full of praise for Heavenly W after jumping a double clear.

“We wouldn’t be here without the horses, so I owe everything to Heavenly and to my team that supports me every day to be able to achieve this incredible opportunity and goal,” she said.

Ireland finished seven penalties behind USA for the runner-up spot. Lining up were Michael Duffy (Cantano 32), Bertram Allen riding Qonquest De Rigo, Cian O’Connor with Belvedere and Daniel Coyle on Incredible.

Great Britain’s three-rider team of Jessica Mendoza (In The Air), Charlie Jones (Capitale 6) and Harry Charles riding Casquo Blue finished sixth.

• WEF Nations Cup results

Showjumping news: Kimosa returns to the winner’s enclosure

On the CSI2* Andalucia Sunshine Tour, British riders were in flying form. Among the winners was Jodie Hall McAteer and her 15-year-old mare Kimosa Van Het Kritrahof, who landed the 1.45m ranking class, and Chloe Winchester who topped the 1.40m small grand prix riding eight-year-old stallion Toblerone OS.

• Andalucia Sunshine Tour results.

Global Champions Tour kicks off with remarkable double

Finally in this week’s international showjumping news round up, we head to Doha, Qatar, where the opening grand prix of the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) went to Abdel Said with Bonne Amie for the second year running. The Belgian rider finished ahead of Daniel Deusser (Gangster VH Noddevelt), and Saudi contender Abdulrahman Alrajhi claimed his first LGCT podium finish in third on Ventago.

“When I walked the course, I thought ‘Wow’ – you don’t come across courses like this every week,” said Abdel. “I’m incredibly proud of ‘Bonnie’ today.”

Best of the Irish was Denis Lynch and Brooklyn Heights who jumped clear in round one but tipped the first fence in the jump-off to finish seventh. Great Britain’s Ellen Whitaker (Korlenski) and Scott Brash with recent dual grand prix winner Hello Folie each picked up four faults in round one.

The opening Global Champions League contest went to reigning champions Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames, one of 17 teams in action this year.

• LGCT of Doha results
• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we are in awe of one horse’s sensational leap during the World Cup jump-off in Ocala, Florida, and a British team rider makes a remarkable recovery to represent his country at the opening leg of the CSIO5* Longines League of Nations.

There are also plenty of high jump thrills at the inaugural Hong Kong International. Read on for a round-up of all this week’s international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: Incredible takes flight

What a leap! Gravity-defying gelding Incredible is perfectly captured in full flight at the final oxer (main image above) by photographer Shannon Brinkman/FEI. The Ariel Grange-owned Incredible and regular rider Daniel Coyle finished a narrow third in an amazing all-Irish top four after a thrilling finish to the $300,000 Longines FEI World Cup Ocala. The victor was Cian O’Connor riding Bentley De Sury.

“When there’s so many Irish in the jump-off – and I knew they’d go hard – it motivated me to have a proper go,” Cian said. “The Irish are good all over the world. We punch above our weight I suppose for a small nation, but [Irish riders] are horsemen and they want to win. We work together, we discuss the courses together, people are behind the other person doing well and that kind of culture creates a movement where everyone wants to go well.”

Cian edged out team-mate Shane Sweetnam with James Kann Cruz by just 0.19sec, with Daniel Coyle a mere 0.03sec behind with Incredible, while Cian’s student Tom Wachman, 20, slotted into fourth on Tabasco De Toxandria Z.

Despite his valiant attempt, Daniel Coyle accepted defeat by saying: “If anyone’s going to beat you, it might as well be two Irishmen.

“The plan was to try to do eight strides to the last oxer, but I had emptied the horse and myself and I thought, ‘I will do something I never do’ and I took an extra stride. I said ‘If I’m fast enough, I’m fast enough’ but tonight I wasn’t.”

• CSI5*-W Ocala results

Brits share puissance spoils

At the inaugural Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, the Great Wall Puissance resulted in a four-way tie between British contenders Will Fletcher (Quintine Van D’Abdijhoeve), Jack Whitaker (Equine America Q Paravatti N) and Paul Gaff (Jaranco VZ) with Norwegian rider Simon Rahbek Yde riding ZB Max-Milan. This pair and Gemma Stevens (Envoy Merelsnest Z) topped the Kowloon Six Bar and Friday’s high jump contest was won outright by Sebastian Hughes with the ever-consistent Colorado Volo.

Denmark took top honours in the Longines grand prix but again it was tight at the top where Zascha Nygaard Lill (Com’On Stanley) beat Scott Brash on Hello Chadora Lady by just 0.03sec.

• CSI5* Longines Hong Kong International results

‘A week ago I couldn’t walk’

Next up in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we head to Abu Dhabi in the UAE for the opening leg of the Longines League of Nations. Ireland won outright with a flawless jumping display but Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard was “very positive” about the squad’s sixth-place finish for the season ahead.

Tim Gredley and Imperial HBF were part of Great Britain’s squad, jumping for four faults in each round, but he credited the “brilliant” team physio Jennie Owst when a knee injury meant he could barely walk, let alone ride, in the run-up to the five-star competition.

The British rider had been suffering excruciating pain and inflammation in his knee and had been unable to ride for 10 days prior to the show. But Jennie identified the cause in the bursa region of the kneecap and immediately set to work.

“If it hadn’t been to her, I wouldn’t have been able to ride – she was brilliant,” said Tim. “She fixed me within two days. I only got on Imperial for the first time on Thursday and the knee still isn’t perfect, but it’s been manageable since.

“If it had been anywhere other than Abu Dhabi, I probably would have rung Di and asked her to swap me out, but the way the new League of Nations is run, there aren’t any reserves and Imperial was already out there. So I had to get on the plane and swing the bat, but luckily it all worked out.”

Read the full report from the Abu Dhabi League of Nations in this week’s magazine, in shops Thursday 20 February.

• CSIO5* LLN Abu Dhabi results

Showjumping news: a platinum performance from Sameh El Dahan

Great Britain’s Sameh El Dahan landed the $32,000 Platinum Performance CSI3* 1.45m Classic at the Desert International Horse Park, Thermal, California, with WKD Aimez Moi.

“It was maybe even better for me to go first because then you try everything,” said Sameh of the five-way jump-off. “We’re a very old partnership. We know each other so well, so it was easy for me to just ride my round. Aimez Moi felt amazing.

“She’s always been very consistent and very brave. She tries everything. She’s won so many good things for us. I couldn’t ask for a better partnership.”

At the same show, Irish rider Conor Swail made his ring debut with One Edition, landing the grand prix with what he described as a “fact-finding mission”.

“[The win] was a bit of a surprise really,” he said, having only taken the reins on Vanessa Mannix’s 10-year-old mare while regular rider James Chawke is out injured. “The first day she was a little green. She jumped great yesterday, and I thought, ‘Why not try her today?’”

• CSI3* Desert Circuit results
• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Going one better than their runner-up spot in last year’s Longines League of Nations (LLN) season opener, Ireland delivered a dominant and flawless performance to win in this year’s curtain-opener in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Across seven rounds of jumping, not a single pole fell for the Irish quartet. Considering the team included a combination jumping at their first show together and a rider who was told nine months ago that he may never walk again, this was a remarkable result.

“I’m so proud of these boys,” said Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake. “This means everything, we came here last year and we held the lead at half time, but as they say it was a game of two halves and our second half wasn’t as good. We were very resilient today and to win on a zero score – we jumped seven horses today and not one had a pole down – it’s astounding. I’m so proud of my boys.

“We’re punching above our weight and we’re very proud to do so.”

Three teams on zero score at half-time in the Longines League of Nations

Santiago Varela built a delicate course, which included similar elements to last year’s challenge including a water jump to an airy double of verticals and a meaty combination with an oxer out to the lightest vertical with a plank on top to finish. Three nations came through to round two on a zero score – Ireland, France and host nations UAE – with Great Britain securing their ticket to round two as one of four teams tied on eight faults.

The Netherlands, USA and the three-rider squad of Sweden missed out on qualifying from the top eight teams from the 11 starters.

Despite the pressure that the three-riders-to-a-team second round puts on their shoulders, with all scores counting, Ireland’s team representatives continued to deliver double clear after double clear with Denis Lynch (Vistogrand) and Trevor Breen (Highland President) paving the way. With France and UAE dropping off the top of the leader board in round two, victory hinged on Ireland’s anchor rider Mikey Pender to deliver with HHS Los Angeles. Shrugging off the weight of responsibility, the ice cool 25-year-old produced the hat-trick of double clears and a tremendous victory was secured.

“It’s been a long road back but with the help of my wife Caroline, kids and family and all my staff, owners, I’ve managed to get back here,” said Trevor Breen, who fractured his lower neck and back in a fall in Hamburg last year riding his home-bred Highland President. “I set my goal quite a few months ago for this Nations Cup, but I had to convince Michael I was ready!

“I didn’t even speak to him for a long time because I needed to get results first. So I’m unbelievably chuffed that Michael would put his trust in me and I’m over moon to be back at this level and to deliver.”

New partnership deliver on show debut

Jason Foley came home with just two time-penalties in round one and although he wasn’t one of the three riders Michael Blake chose for round two, this was a superb performance from a rider competing on a horse he only started riding a few weeks ago and who he only jumped in the ring for the first time on Thursday – Chedington Hazy Toulana, formerly ridden by Chris Burton.

“To win here topped it all off,” said the 23-year-old.

Winning team competitions without a single jumping fault is not unprecedented but it’s a rare occurrence “because it’s so hard to do”, explained Michael Blake, who credited team veteran Denis Lynch for taking the riders “under his wing”. Mikey Pender agreed, paying tribute to a great team atmosphere for Ireland’s Longines League of Nations victory.

“Everyone was rooting for each other,” said Mikey, who was part of the runner-up team last year. “It feels sweet today.”

The host side UAE, led by chef d’equipe William Funnell assisted by Duncan Inglis, held on for the runner-up spot on eight faults, helped by a double clear from Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi with Chacolu, with France finishing third on 12 penalties, with two double clears on the score card.

Great Britain finished in sixth position with a team total of 20. Donald Whitaker’s exceptional double clear with Millfield Colette played a pivotal role. Rising star Robert Murphy jumped round for four and eight faults riding Jos Lansink’s Kannem JA Z, while Tim Gredley and Imperial HBF picked up four faults in each round. Joe Stockdale and Ebanking just succumbed to the middle part of the triple combination round one and sat out round two.

The Longines League of Nations journey continues next to Ocala, Florida, with the Final in Barcelona in October. You can read the full report from Abu Dhabi’s opening leg of this team series in this week’s Horse & Hound, in the shops Thursday 20 February.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘A chance for Brits to make a statement’: a Who’s Who guide to the 2025 Longines League of Nations

William Funnell: ‘Hearing your national anthem never gets old’

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‘A surprise comeback, but what an example he sets’: British team stalwart makes winning return in Nations Cup thriller

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The curtain lifts on the 2025 series of the Longines League of Nations (LLN) team showjumping competitions this weekend (Saturday 15 February) with the opening leg in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Although a couple of key riders have elected to boycott this year’s LLN, there is plenty to look forward to as the top 10 ranked nations battle it out for supremacy across three continents, with a ticket to the final in Barcelona the goal.

Great Britain, Ireland, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland and USA are the countries in action this year, and the UAE joins them in round one as the host nation.

So which showjumping combinations are in action in round one of the Longines League of Nations this weekend?

Great Britain fields dynamic squad for opening leg of Longines League of Nations

Great Britain failed to qualify for last year’s LLN final, but the reigning Olympic gold medallists enter this year’s contest as the fourth ranked squad.

“As a team, we expect to perform even better this year thanks to having that bit more time to prepare and the opportunity to build on lessons learned in the previous season,” said chef d’equipe Di Lampard, herself a former competitor at the World Equestrian Games, European Championships and Nations Cups.

“We need to have the strongest teams available for the LLN series. The other nations have been very competitive so far, so we need to match that standard if we’re going to secure a place in the final. Hopefully, we can plan and train with a larger squad of athletes and horses, balancing their individual goals with the responsibilities for Longines League of Nations team selection.”

Lining up to represent Great Britain in Abu Dhabi this week are Tim Gredley on Imperial HBF, who is jointly owned by Rachel Gredley, Bill Gredley and Unex Competition Yard. Joe Stockdale will be in action on Ebanking, owned by Barbara Hester and Laura Stockdale, and Donald Whitaker brings Millfield Colette, who is jointly owned by Reitsportanlage Dagobertshausen. Robert Murphy, 24, is riding Kannem JA Z, owned by Jos Lansink Horses BV.

“This year is a new season and a chance for everyone to make a statement,” Di added. “There will hopefully be some new combinations that are selected. Some athletes will be looking to use the series as a chance to prove themselves for selection for the FEI European Championships this summer, while the more experienced ones will be trying out new or younger horses. Last year held an element of the unknown because the series was new, but now we know what to expect and can be better prepared – time will tell.”

Explaining the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes, Di said: “I’m helping the riders to strategically plan their competition schedules and supporting the grooms. The wellbeing of our horses is of utmost importance and making sure they’re feeling fresh is key to helping them perform at their best. I try to encourage the athletes to limit the starts of each horse and build a plan around their individual needs. A World Class programme vet is usually at the events to check their wellbeing and each horse will have a dedicated groom travelling with them to see to their every need.

“Good luck to everyone – let the sport be exciting and the best nations win. To all the British fans supporting us from home, thank you all for getting behind your national athletes. To the fans around the world supporting the Brits at each of the LLN competitions, please keep it going. The horses, let alone the athletes, raise their game in a good atmosphere.”

Ireland: the best in the world

Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake has picked LLN newcomers Trevor Breen and Jason Foley for Abu Dhabi, alongside Denis Lynch and Mikey Pender.

“In the 2024 Longines League of Nations we maintained a delicate balance between fostering young talent and utilising the expertise of seasoned combinations,” he explained. “This approach will continue in 2025 as we focus on developing resilience in emerging riders while refining strategies for our experienced athletes.

“That win in Ocala [last year] was a phenomenal night of jumping. It reinforced the strength of our program and gave us the momentum to secure the top position in the league standings. Finishing first was a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team.

“Our youth programs are the foundation of our success. They provide a platform for emerging riders to transition to senior levels and excel under the green jacket,” he added.

“Our athletes support and inspire one another. This camaraderie and shared purpose are key to our success. It’s not just about individual performance, but about building a cohesive team that can rise to any challenge.

“For our athletes, we focus on goal setting and mental preparedness. Open communication is vital, whether it’s addressing logistical challenges or preparing for major events. This support helps alleviate pressure and keeps them focused. For our horses, individualised training and competition plans are essential. Targeting lower-level competitions allows them to build confidence and refine skills without unnecessary stress. Regular veterinary check-ins ensure they are in top physical and mental condition.

“As a small nation, our success on the global stage wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our fans and the dedicated systems behind our athletes. The level of competition among the 10 teams is exceptional and it’s a privilege to be part of this journey. We’re excited for what’s to come in 2025 and can’t wait to deliver more thrilling performances for our supporters.”

USA: valuable exposure for younger athletes in the Longines League of Nations

USA will be represented in Abu Dhabi by an all-female quartet of Skylar Wireman, Lucy Davis Kennedy, Taylor Kain and Kaitlin Campbell, lead by chef d’equipe Robert Ridland, a former Olympian.

“Introducing younger athletes into the Longines League of Nations is an excellent way to test them against the top sport, while providing valuable exposure,” he said.

A mix of experience and youth on French squad

With a new home stage to compete at during the LLN series in 2025, France is hoping to use lessons learned from 2024 as a springboard. Kevin Staut, Simon Delestre, Jeanne Sadran and Alexa Ferrer are the French representatives in leg one.

“The challenge lies in the early start to the circuit, which overlaps with the World Cup season,” said Sophie Dubourg of the French equestrian federation. “This year, we’re choosing to mix experience and youth from the outset.”

Title holders Germany bid to regain their LLN crown

Chef d’equipe Otto Becker brings a quality quartet of Katrin Eckermann, Sophie Hinners, Jörne Sprehe and Maximilian Weishaupt to spearhead the nation’s bid to defend their LLN crown and follow up on the individual Olympic title earned by Germany’s Christian Kukuk.

“In this series, every round counts,” said Otto. “There is no margin for error, which makes it incredibly exciting for spectators and significantly raises the stakes for riders. That’s why we will again focus on fielding experienced horse-and-rider combinations in 2025. Winning Barcelona for the third consecutive time would be an incredible achievement.

“Only the very best teams earn their place in the Longines League of Nations,” he added. “We have the highest respect for our fellow competitors and their supporters, and we look forward to delivering top-class sport for fans around the world.”

Team Belgium: inspiring the next generation

Chef d’equipe Peter Weinberg has guided the Belgian team since 2017 and flying the flag in Abu Dhabi will be Riky Hemeryck, Thibeau Spits, Jos Verlooy and Wilm Vermeir.

“One of the most critical insights from 2024 was the importance of starting strong and maintaining consistency throughout the series,” said Silke Hamerlinck, head of communication for high-level jumping administration at the Belgian equestrian federation. “It also provides an invaluable platform for our athletes to perform at the highest level while inspiring the next generation of riders.

“The outstanding team spirit among our riders creates an environment where everyone thrives and learns from one another. This unity strengthens our performances and fosters resilience during challenges.”

New leadership and different goals in Switzerland

Although he does not have key players Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat at his disposal for the LLN, young chef d’equipe Peter van der Waaij has selected a great team for Abu Dhabi – Bryan Balsiger, Romain Duguet, Janika Sprunger and Edouard Schmitz.

Switzerland hosts more than a dozen international equestrian events annually but its flagship show St Gallen was removed from the LLN series for 2025 after having been cancelled owing to bad weather in 2024.

“Our team is very persistent,” said Peter. “They keep working on their weaknesses and strive to enhance their strengths. The level of horsemanship among our riders is very high and they prioritise the wellbeing of their horses above all else.

“We strongly believe that big crowds help our sport move forward, both in the short and long term.

A strong Longines League of Nations start for the riders in orange?

The Netherlands finished runners-up in the LLN Final of 2024 and new chef d’equipe Wout-Jan van der Schans fields Kevin Jochems, Tani Joosten, Leopold van Asten and Jur Vrieling for the season opener.

“In Rotterdam last year we had a sea of orange cheering us on,” said Jantien van Zon from the Dutch equestrian federation.

Mighty Sweden always bring their A-game

Helmsman Henrik Ankarcrona pins his LLN hopes on Rolf-Goran Bengtsson, Angelie von Essen, Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli and Petronella Andersson to build on their podium finish in the LLN final last year.

“Perhaps the real highlight, though, is that the team learned a lot over the 2024 series, which means we will be aiming for more podiums in 2025,” said Henrik. “From grooms to riders to support staff, each and every individual plays a critical role to the performance. If everyone brings their A-game and the best version of themselves on the day, we will have a good run for the podium again.

“We are always mindful of integrating new talent at the right time and place to align with our long-term vision for the sport. Having that bigger vision is essential to keep on track, but we also aim to perform well on the day – this presents the ultimate balancing act for both immediate and sustainable success.”

Italy makes its LLN debut

Italian riders join the Longines League of Nations for the first time, with Piergiorgio Bucci, Emanuele Camilli, Giacomo Casadei and Giulia Martinengo Marquet flying the country’s flag for their debut in Abu Dhabi.

Team UAE led by William Funnell

Host nation UAE has chef d’equipe William Funnell at the helm and his squad representing their country on home soil are Abdullah Mohd Al Marri, Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi, Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi and Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi.

What is the Longines League of Nations format?

The 2025 LLN format follows that set last year and differs slightly from traditional Nations Cups. The competition comprises two rounds of jumping over the same course. Four athletes compete for each country in round one, with the best three scores counting for the team total. The best eight teams return for round two, fielding only three riders per nation, which means that every score counts.

In the event of a tie, one athlete from each of the tying nations will jump off against the clock.

Where are the remaining legs of the LLN?

The 2025 LLN campaign continues in Ocala (USA), Rotterdam (the Netherlands) and new venue Gassin-St Tropez (France), culminating in the grand finale in Barcelona, Spain, in October. Each qualifying event offers a prize fund of €700,000, with €1,600,000 up for grabs at the final.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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William Funnell shares his thoughts on Nations Cup boycotts and course-design debates

Since my last column, I’ve been largely based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) training the country’s team riders in my chef d’equipe role. I’ve brought a couple of seven-year-olds and my older mare Equine America Billy Picador, all of whom have benefited from the tours here, but I certainly didn’t expect to be winning a Nations Cup with Great Britain.

The British squad was short of a rider for the recent competition at Sharjah so I ran it past the lads from the UAE and they were all for it, thinking it would egg them on as they wouldn’t want to get beaten by their trainer!

It seemed to work, although causing them to finish second in a Nations Cup by jumping a double clear myself definitely wasn’t in my contract. I haven’t been sacked yet and I hope I proved to them there’s life in this old dog yet!

I’ve jumped in many Nations Cups, but you always remember your double clears and hearing your national anthem never gets old. My team-mates Georgia Tame, Lily Attwood and Joe Stockdale jumped supremely well, and with Joe riding the up-and-coming Billy Santorini it was a proud day for The Billy Stud and especially Donal Barnwell.

The last time Joe and I jumped on a Nations Cup team together was in Sopot, Poland, in 2021. I got jumped off and broke my ankle, ruining my chance of going to the Olympics; Joe also didn’t have his finest moment.

So it shows how far Joe has come – I’ve had a lot of pleasure helping him over the years and he’s proved he’s the real deal. He has supportive owners behind him, is building up some nice horses and has all the credentials to be a top-10 rider.

Joe has been selected to ride for Great Britain again this week (15 February) at the opening round of the Longines League of Nations (LLN) at Abu Dhabi, UAE, where I’ll be swapping my breeches for a jacket and tie with my main focus back on the UAE team competing there as the home nation.

But what a mess the FEI has made, tinkering with the former Nations Cup Super League, held at many of the most historic and prestigious venues in the world that always draw a fantastic crowd, and turning it into a sterile four-event series with a final in Barcelona. I understand why Steve Guerdat and Martin Fuchs’ have boycotted it this year.

Nothing beats representing your country in Nations Cups but the really special ones are parading for the likes of Dublin – where you have people hanging off the balconies to watch – Rome, Hickstead and Aachen. How many people will be in the grandstand at the new LLN venue of Gassin-St Tropez in September? Only the third leg at Rotterdam retains any kind of equestrian history.

As much as I support having the opening leg in the UAE, it comes at a time when the showjumping calendar is already saturated with various tours, the Globals starting up again and the World Cup indoor circuit still in full swing. The conflict was seen last week when Great Britain couldn’t field two five-star riders to fill our allocation at the Bordeaux World Cup show.

In the past we regarded the World Cup as a championship in its own right, but where does it fit in now? Whichever way you look at it, there’s another FEI event losing its way.

Debate around doubles

The topic of conversation this week, off the back of Harry Charles’s fall in Florida, has been whether two-stride vertical to oxer combinations should be banned. Most of us have had a fall at some point when we’ve pushed for that back rail off two strides and the horse has picked up a stride too early.

Peter Charles was right when he asked what they actually brought to a course. They rarely add faults but they do bring danger, which we don’t want.

A popular podcast

While I’m in the UAE, my wife Pippa has been recording podcasts with various names in the equestrian industry alongside Made In Chelsea’s Tristan Phipps. They seem to be going down well and it’s proving an excellent way to expose our sports to a wider audience.

● An outright ban on these two-stride vertical-oxer or more guidance for course-designers? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Two of the biggest names in showjumping are shunning the FEI’s flagship series in 2025 over disagreement with its choice of venues.

London 2012 Olympic individual gold medallist Steve Guerdat and former European champion Martin Fuchs will not be competing in the Longines League of Nations this year.

The Longines League of Nations, which starts this week in the UAE, is a revamp of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup series and ran for the first time in 2024. Hickstead and Dublin were among the longstanding host venues that did not make the cut to hold legs of the new series.

The two riders cited the calendar and locations of the Longines League of Nations stages as reasons for their boycott.

“The Nations Cups are very important to me. I am critical of the fact that the best traditional tournaments that have shaped the history of our sport are not included in the Longines League of Nations calendar in order to support tournaments that, in my opinion, have few spectators and few reputations,” said Martin, who is currently ranked fifth in the world.

“I will be available to Switzerland for all other Nations Cups this season and am looking forward to a successful year.”

Longines League of Nations qualifiers will run at Abu Dhabi (15 February), Ocala (22 March), Rotterdam (20 June) and Gassin – St Tropez (21 September), with the final at Barcelona (2 to 5 October). The St Gallen leg, which was on the original calendar and was cancelled in 2024 owing to weather, has been replaced by the St Tropez fixture.

Switzerland will be contesting the Longines League of Nations in 2025.

Chef d’equipe Peter van der Waaij said: “The Longines League of Nations competitions bring additional pressure with the new format; we experienced that in 2024. It is crucial to be strong as a team and to support each other. These are key aspects for Nations Cups and with a view to the European and World Championships. An important goal within the Longines League of Nations series is of course to qualify for the final in Barcelona.”

During a press conference at Bordeaux, where he won the Longines World Cup jumping qualifier with Connor Jei, Martin added: “I’m really pleased to have the opportunity to talk not only about this win, but also about more serious topics than just this competition.

“For us, it’s really the competitions such as this in Bordeaux, Falsterbo, Dublin, Dinard, La Baule, which have this tradition, the crowd, a buzzy atmosphere of a top competition – we think it’s really important to support these competitions.”

He added that “of course it is great that there are new competitions”, giving the examples of Abu Dhabi and Ocala, but the traditional ones – “those that are the best in the world” – should be supported, rather than prioritising the new.

“I think the new ones need to prove themselves first. If they are better, if they do prove themselves to be better, then let’s discuss again a change in the calendar,” he said. “But we don’t agree with the way it’s been done and are very, very disappointed for the sake of our sport and the Nations Cup.”

World number two Steve Guerdat said Nations Cups are “very important to me” and that it is “always a great honour to represent Switzerland at a Nations Cup”.

“I am also 100% behind Swiss Equestrian,” he said. “The atmosphere at the Swiss Nations Cup in St. Gallen, for example, or at other traditional tournaments in equestrian countries is incomparable.

“There are fantastic tournaments with a great atmosphere all over the world. It is precisely this atmosphere that I miss at tournaments that are organised less for the horse-loving public than for a select audience – I cannot understand the FEI’s strategy regarding the Longines League of Nations.”

Swiss Equestrian sports manager Evelyne Niklaus added: “We have had extensive discussions with Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat. We respect this wish. Both will be part of the team at other Nations Cups and will give their all for Switzerland.”

Dublin and Hickstead are among the historic former Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup venues that now hold their own legs, independent of an FEI series.

An FEI spokesperson told H&H: “The FEI regrets the absence of these two top athletes at the Longines League of Nations, but fully respects the right of each competitor to make decisions based on their own priorities and circumstances.

“While St Gallen was initially part of the Longines League of Nations series, the decision to remove it was based on safety concerns and the need for venues to meet certain standards. This decision, though regrettable, was made in the best interest of the sport and its participants.”

The spokesperson added: “While the participation of top athletes like Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat is certainly valued, the strength of the series lies in the calibre of competitors from around the world, which we are confident will continue to attract passionate spectators to these prestigious events.”

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Great Britain landed its opening team showjumping contest of 2025, the CSIO4* Sharjah Nations Cup presented by Longines, in the United Arab Emirates yesterday (2 February). The competition marked a return to the British fold for team showjumping stalwart William Funnell, who last jumped in a Nations Cup two years ago, and his exceptional double clear with Equine America Billy Picador proved pivotal to Great Britain’s victory.

“The strength of the team is brilliant, so credit to them all,” said Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard.

The British squad was led out by pathfinder Joe Stockdale with Renske Quelhorst’s exciting nine-year-old Billy Santorini, who was jumping in his first Nations Cup. The pair jumped for four faults and a clear.

Georgia Tame, 27, was contesting only her second show with 10-year-old Be Golden, having helped to produce the son of Golden Hawk, out of Shane Breen’s great mare Zarnita, in his younger days for Breen Equestrian. The pair picked up 16 faults in round one but returned for a smashing clear in round two, just picking up one time-fault.

Johnnie Walker, an 11-year-old Harley VDL gelding, was another horse making his team debut having been beautifully produced by Lily Attwood, and the pair posted a crucial clear in the opening round before their eight faults in round two became the drop score.

Having stepped aside from jumping in team competitions while he took the role of chef d’equipe to the UAE showjumping team on their journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics, William Funnell made a welcome return to the British squad, jumping a brilliant double clear on the squad’s second Billy Stud-bred horse, the 13-year-old mare Equine America Billy Picador. Picador, like Santorini, is by Billy Mexico but out of Animo mare Bidorette.

Finishing on a team score of five faults, Great Britain won gold, ahead of the UAE riders in second, three penalties adrift. The three-rider squads of Belgium and Germany took third and fourth respectively, and Ireland finished fifth.

Nations Cup showjumping thriller: great team spirit

Di Lampard told H&H the win was “a fantastic start to the season”.

“It was a real mix of new and old and the fact every rider contributed is great,” she said. “It was fantastic to see Billy Santorini starting his Nations Cup career so well with Joe Stockdale, he looks very promising and Joe is really maturing. The horse hasn’t been competed a lot but has been very carefully produced and it just shows that when you get the foundations right, they can step up.

“Georgia hasn’t been riding Be Golden very long so it was a great show of her horsemanship – it was just towards the end of the first round that it started to unravel, but she was supported well in the second round and she’s a great rider.”

A surprise return to the British team

Di described Lily Attwood’s journey to the top with Johnnie Walker as “a feather in her cap”, adding that there was “no bigger surprise than having William riding for us again”.

“He was fantastic and it just goes to show that he still wants to ride and to do it well, and what an example he sets; I told him what a brilliant performance it was and for all of his pupils to see. To pick things back up at Nations Cups after a couple of years out is amazing, but especially to do it with a double clear. It just looked so good,” she said.

“I must confess I didn’t ask William initially to ride in the team because last year he had his other commitments and couldn’t do it. But it wasn’t until they were talking among themselves out there in the UAE and Stanny van Paesschen said to me he thought William might ride on the team if asked. So it was a really good team spirit out there that got this team together.”

William Funnell’s last Nations Cup showjumping appearance for Great Britain came two years ago and this time around he was also acting as chef d’equipe to the runners-up UAE, resulting in some friendly rivalry between the top two teams.

“I cantered in for my second round knowing that Great Britain could win, but if I had once fence down, the UAE would win, so it was a bit of a win-win situation!” William told H&H. “It was fantastic to have two Billy Mexico horses on the team – both Santorini and Picador are horses my wife Pippa Funnell produced and I thought Joe did a fantastic job, he’s really come of age as a rider, whether it’s riding his young ones or the horses he knows. He’s doing a sterling job and Santorini looks to have a big future for him.

“It wasn’t my plan to jump the Nations Cup but it was great to be able to support the British team as well as the UAE team – I actually thought having me on the team would egg the UAE riders on a bit, because they didn’t want to get beaten by me!”

Next stop, Longines League Of Nations

The next team contest for Great Britain will be the five-star Longines League of Nations, which kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 15 February. Joe Stockdale will be back in action, this time with Ebanking, and he will be joined by Tim Gredley on Imperial HBF, Donald Whitaker on either Picasso VD Zwartbleshoeve or Millfield Colette, and Robert Murphy riding either Hulde G or Kannem JA Z.

“Hopefully we see some nice partnerships coming through to introduce and hopefully everybody can keep hold of the horses; everything’s looking good,” said Di. “Off the back of the Games, I think it has put a bounce in everybody’s step.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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After Germany’s success in the inaugural Longines League of Nations Final in Barcelona, Spain, team rider Richard Vogel credited his groom Felicia Wallin for his double clear performance with the stallion United Touch S.

Richard and the Untouched x Lux Z 12-year-old were one of only four faultless performances on Sunday (6 October) and their contribution helped to seal a momentous win for the German side. But, with Richard having been competing in North America in recent weeks, the fitness, training work and preparations with United Touch S ahead of Barcelona has all fallen to Felicia, who has worked with Richard for the past four years.

“I have to thank Felicia. She actually had him mostly in training since the Paris Olympics,” says Richard, ranked number 10 in the world.

“We gave United a bit of time off then we did Spruce Meadows and then he had another bit of time off. So since Spruce, I wasn’t riding him or around him much because I was competing in America.

“She took over his training and clearly did a pretty good job! So I guess we have to keep it that way now. The plan works! She rides him very well. Normally, I’m the one that does the flatwork that is more educating for him, which is also important. She’s the one that goes in the forest with him and gives him a happy time – it’s very important to have the right balance there.

“But since I was away for two weeks, I said to her that not only should she be riding in the forest, but could she also do the work in between – and she did it very well!”

German showjumper Richard Vogel: “We’re very happy to have Felicia by our side”

Richard explains how Felicia is a vital member of his team at his yard near Marburg in central Germany.

“I’m very glad to have her by my side and the horses are very happy to have her by their side,” he says. “Felicia did some showjumping in her youth but realised where she’s extra good is in the care of the horses. We’re a young team – she is 24 and I am 27 – and we are heading in the same direction; we have high hopes for the future.”

Richard describes United and Felicia as being devoted to each other.

“If United could pick between me and Felicia, he would always go to Felicia – not that he doesn’t like me, but their bond is very special,” he says.

Felicia and Germany’s other winning team grooms, Sofie Karlsson, Heidemarie Jaeckel, Ulla Uusitalo and Johanna Klare were all presented with special awards during the prize giving ceremony in Barcelona (pictured, above).

Daniel Coyle’s mare Legacy: “She’s like a pony at home,” says groom Francesca Garavelli

Another groom taking the spotlight at the Longines League of Nations Final in Barcelona was Francesca Garavelli, who looks after the great mare Legacy, owned by Ariel Grange and ridden by Daniel Coyle. She led the 14-year-old mare in to receive the award for the best horse of the season for her performances during the Longines League of Nations series.

“She’s unbelievable, the simplest horse to look after, she does it with all of her heart,” says Francesca. “Legacy is just the boss. I’ve never met a horse like this.

“She’s like a pony at home – she’s in the paddock all day, she enjoys grass as much as possible. You can do anything with her.”

Daniel and Legacy also shared the €200,000 bonus for jumping a double clear in Barcelona and Francesca says she loves watching the pair in action in the ring.

“Legacy always puts in such a good performance – she tries her hardest every time,” says Francesca, who joined Daniel Coyle’s team shortly before the Paris Olympics. “She’s a bit lazy to ride at home but she’s clever – she’s saving her energy. Home is her relaxing time.”

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In an exhilarating display of world-class sport, Germany came home as the jubilant victors of the inaugural Longines League of Nations (LLN) Final yesterday (6 October).

The new-look series for 2024, a radical departure from the traditional Nations Cup format, reached its climax at the Real Club De Polo in Barcelona, Spain, where fortunes oscillated wildly for the nine finalists. However it was Otto Becker’s side’s superb horsemanship and composure under pressure that earned them the right to be the first to etch their names on the new silverware.

“Today was a great day, a weekend we will never forget,” said world number 10 Richard Vogel, who jumped double clear for the winning team with the phenomenal stallion United Touch S.

The competition was neck and neck from the off and, with the luxury of a drop score in round one, Germany and the Netherlands topped the leaderboard on a zero score.

France, Sweden and Brazil formed a chasing pack carrying four faults, a fence ahead of Ireland, with USA and Spain on 12 faults. The first big surprise of the afternoon was that Switzerland were already trailing on 24 faults.

Switching to the three-rider per team format for round two, chefs d’equipe had to make tactical choices as to which riders to bring forward. Also, although the meaty championship course remained unchanged, Olympic designer Santiago Varela raised fence 7a and b – a double of airy verticals with a Liverpool under the second element – which would prove pivotal to the competition. The double became something of a bogey fence, while the Polo Club plank two fences later, on either a long five or short six strides from the previous oxer, was the downfall of many.

Just under half the competitors jumped clear in round one while in round two the strike rate dropped to just 22%; Santi noted that the majority of faults throughout the day came at the verticals and front poles of oxers.

Longines League of Nations Final: a shock elimination

Switzerland’s fortunes didn’t improve into the second round and they were only replaced at the bottom of the rankings by France, who were eliminated after Kevin Staut’s Beau De Laubry Z stopped at the double, depositing his rider. Both walked away unscathed.

Jana Wargers and her mare Dorette OLD’s four faults in round one were Germany’s drop score next to her team-mates’ three clears and Otto Becker made the decision to leave her out of round two. German pathfinder Andre Thieme (DSP Chakaria) earned a round of applause as the first contender to clear the tricky double second time around. However after a huge leap over the following oxer, the six strides to the gold plank then came up short and it toppled, passing pole position temporarily to the Dutch.

But when the newly crowned Olympic champion Christian Kukuk, at his first show back with Checker 47 who had jumped immaculately in round one, picked up eight faults against the Netherlands’ second rider Kim Emmen (Imagine), who collected 12 faults, the two nations were back on equal terms for the final rotation.

Ireland’s anchor rider Daniel Coyle and Legacy conjured up a foot-perfect double clear to take the squad within striking distance of the podium on a team score of 20. Peder Fredricson, another Olympian making an international return with his Paris 2024 partner, the 18-year-old Catch Me Not S, added four faults, placing Sweden on the same score as Ireland but in a faster time.

The Longines League of Nations Final reached its crescendo with the remaining two riders and, as Santiago summed up, “With this format you have to wait until the very end because everything can change in just a second.”

Germany had two fences in hand over Sweden, but with the Dutch breathing down their necks, final rider Richard Vogel and his stunning stallion had no room for error. But they powered home as smoothly as ever to seal the perfect double clear.

Had they done enough to win?

The baton was passed to final rider Harrie Smolders on Uricas VD Kattevennen and a clear would force a jump-off with Germany, but one fence down was game over and so it panned out – the plank played its part one last time and the heartache reverberated round the stands as the Dutch side dropped into second. Harrie’s team-mates clutched their heads in disbelief.

But the celebrations rang out for Germany, with Richard Vogel crediting another epic performance from the incredible son of Untouched, owned and bred by Julius-Peter Sinnack.

“I have a very special horse and he showed us one more time just how special he is,” he said.“Especially in the second round, I don’t think there are many horses that can come back as strong as him and I’m happy that I gave him a good enough ride.

“He felt very good the first round, then the pressure was on for the second round – a lot of things were happening and it was a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions watching it.”

The 2021 European champion Andre Thieme described DSP Chakaria’s first round clear as “incredible”.

“I was disappointed with my one rail down, but the second round showed us that there were so many rails coming down so actually four faults ended up being a pretty good result,” he said.

“I’m thrilled to be part of that team and it feels very special.”

Christian Kukuk attributed his second-round faults to “inaccuracy” in his riding.

“I had a very good first round, I jumped in Friday’s grand prix because it was his first show since the Paris Olympics but I think his condition is not yet at this level, so he was a bit behind me in the second round today and I was just a bit too shy and didn’t ride accurately enough,” he said with typical self-criticism.

“I was a bit far off the double of verticals – only about 20cm, but that’s enough on a course like this – then I had an unlucky fault at the plank, so I was a bit disappointed by my round,” he said. “My riding wasn’t as accurate as in Paris and that’s what you need – always. Fortunately we had Richie and he was flying – he brought us the win today and it was incredible to see.”

Where did Ireland finish in the Longines League of Nations Final?

Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake was pleased with Ireland’s fourth-place finish but “disappointed that we let it slip”.

Pathfinder Denis Lynch with Vistogrand and Daniel Coyle (Legacy) both jumped clear in round one, while Cian O’Connor came home with eight faults on Fancy De Kergane, the only nine-year-old in the contest. Another of the shock results came with a miscommunication between Friday’s grand prix victor Mikey Pender and HHS Calais between the treble combination and the following narrow vertical. The run-out resulted in four faults, adding to the 12 time penalties he accrued, in part for crossing the start line a fraction too late.

Denis, Mikey and Daniel were picked as Ireland’s representatives for round two, returning a team score of 12. This put them equal with Sweden but they finished off the podium in fourth as the deciding factor was accumulated time.

“We came here with not too bad a team, some of us made a few mistakes and you can’t be doing that in a final like this,” said Michael Blake. “The trophy was within our grasp and we’ll learn from it. But congratulations to the three teams that were on the podium, they were great.”

Where was the British team?

The top eight teams from the 10 nations competing in the 2024 series qualified for the LLN Final, with Spain joining as hosts. The four global qualifiers, starting in Abu Dhabi in February, were reduced to three when the third leg in St Gallen was cancelled owing to adverse weather conditions and Great Britain’s best result came with a third-place finish in Rotterdam on the back of 10th in Ocala and seventh in Abu Dhabi. That meant the Olympic gold medallists, alongside Belgium, failed to make the cut for Barcelona.

Four riders shared the €200,000 (£168,000) double clear bonus – Daniel Coyle and Richard Vogel were joined by Dutch rider Maikel van der Vleuten with his Olympic bronze medal-winning partner Beauville Z, and flying Spaniard Armando Trapote on Tornado VS. Maikel, Daniel and Henrik von Eckermann were also awarded as the best athletes of the season, having each jumped five clear rounds.

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You may also be interested in:

‘A spring in our step for the Olympics’: John Whitaker clinches fabulous home Nations Cup win

Celebrating 150 (and counting): rider set to reach remarkable Nations Cup milestone at Hickstead

‘What a day to be Irish’: a momentous team win, but British disappointment

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What a week for British riders! In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we’ve watched grands prix being won by our country’s heroes, seen some superb performances from the next generation of young showjumpers and credit goes to one of the super grooms who make it all possible.

Read on for this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results

Showjumping news: Olympic gold medallist makes exciting triumphant return

After an unforgettable summer in which Harry Charles won Olympic gold in Paris quickly followed by a glittering grand prix victory in the Longines Global Champions Tour of London, the 25-year-old took some well-deserved time out to recharge his batteries. This week he made a triumphant return to the sport, winning the CSI2* grand prix of Peelbergen in the Netherlands on nine-year-old Bandit after a seven-way jump-off.

This success also marked a return to the ring for the Stall Zet and Peter Charles-owned Bandit, who was last seen unseating Harry in Aachen in July and, although the stallion was unhurt in his stumble, the accident resulted in a broken arm for Harry.

“There was actually a similar oxer-oxer triple combination to the one in Aachen but that was more of a freak fall, so it wasn’t on my mind at all and Bandit really wasn’t bothered – he’s Irish and pretty hardy!” said Harry of the Obos Quality x Cruisings Micky Finn stallion, who was bred in Ireland by Ted McKenna.

“I had four horses in Peelbergen, none of them knocked a pole down all week and Bandit won the grand prix so it was a great way to come back,” Harry added to H&H. “The last few days, I’ve felt really excited and ready to start riding again, which I think means my break did me good and I’ve taken enough time to reflect. The showjumping calendar doesn’t really allow you to take a break so if you want one you have to make that decision for yourself and not many riders seem to do it. But for me it’s worked.”

There were further celebrations for the Charles family on Sunday (15 September) when Harry’s sister Sienna won the medium tour final on Valkiry De Zance.

• Peelbergen results

A stallion with “the biggest heart”, says Joe Whitaker, as cousins triumph

Showjumper Donald Whitaker says in his forthcoming interview in Horse & Hound magazine this week (19 September), “What makes us such a successful family is that all over the world, there will be a good result coming in from somebody; there’s motivation everywhere” and to prove it, two members of the Whitaker family enjoyed a grand prix win apiece this weekend.

In Ascona, Switzerland, Robert Whitaker and Vermento landed the CSI4* grand prix with the faster of only two double clears, while in the CSI3* grand prix at Sentower Park, Joe Whitaker and the brilliant Hulahupe JR stormed to glory by nearly 3sec.

“He’s an amazing horse; I’m so close to him now as I’ve had him for such a long time. I started him as a six-year-old, and we’ve had a lot of fun together,” Joe told H&H of Jessica Crane’s 12-year-old. “He’s in flying form.”

Joe missed the first half of the year with a broken hand followed by a hip injury and only returned to the international circuit in June. He and Hulahupe won the CSI2* grand prix of Lier in July, finishing third at the venue the following week, then made a winning return from a couple of weeks off at Sentower on Sunday (15 September).

“He’s come back really strong and won again there, so he’s in great shape, I’m really happy with him,” said Joe. “The grand prix was tough; 60 qualified and there were only nine clears, which speaks for itself about the height and the technicality. When Hulahupe is jumping well like that, you can feel as if you can do anything on him and he won it through the three turns in the jump-off. There was a turn back to the double, then two turns back to the oxers and I jumped them on a very tight angle and I reckon he saved a second on each turn.

“In a grand prix like that I try to stick to my own plan; I’ve made some mistakes in the past trying to chase people when actually I’m quite naturally fast as a rider anyway, so what I’ve learned with a bit of experience is just to try to do the best round I can personally and if it works that’s great. When the horses are jumping that well it gives you the freedom to go a bit faster! It’s a fantastic feeling.”

Joe also won a young horse class at the show with Stephanie Holker’s talented seven-year-old stallion Maserati WS, and Steph won a 1.25m herself riding Guido.

“I’m delighted for Steph because she’s been working so hard with her horses,” said Joe, who also credited groom Lucy Smith for his string’s fantastic wellbeing.

“Without her we wouldn’t be there because I fly home to the family every Sunday and go back a couple of days later and she’s doing a great job of keeping the horses fit and getting them ready, which gives me the freedom to do that,” Joe said. “You need somebody very trustworthy and good with the horses to be able to do that, so when the horses are all in such great form, it’s all credit to her.”

• Sentower Park results
• Ascona results

Showjumping news: an invincible pony Nations Cup squad

Next in this week’s international showjumping news round-up we look to the British heroes of the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final at Azelhof Horse Events in Lier, Belgium, who were once again the gold medal-winning pony squad. The team of Hollie Gerken (Galaxy V), Sophia Rogers on Neil 55, Lucy Capper with Oscar Van De Beekerhiede, Maisie Alsopp on Vaughann De Vuzit and Cate Kerr on 17-year-old Cindy won with a team tally of just one penalty picked up in the first of three rounds of jumping, finishing ahead of second-placed Ireland with Belgium in third.

“We knew we’d won before Cate went in, but she wanted to jump, jumped clear and we finished on a total of one fault!” said chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker. “They all rode really well, it was a great result!”

In the children’s Nations Cup the Dutch took the title ahead of Great Britain, with Ireland in third.

“I thought it would be fast – I didn’t think it would be wild”

And finally in this week’s showjumping news round-up, the 2024/25 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup North American League kicked off with victory for Kent Farrington on 10-year-old mare Greya ahead of runner-up Sam Hutton of Great Britain on Melusina BVL Z in Traverse City.

The US rider was first to jump double clear in the seven-way jump-off and couldn’t be beaten with a winning time of 37.19sec over Alan Wade’s track. The British challenger came within 0.2sec but had to settle for second.

“Going first, I thought the jump-off would be fast, but I didn’t think it would be wild,” said Kent, who withdrew Greya from the Olympics when she developed a “bad cough” that required a course of antibiotics. “The first part of my round was secure, and then at that point going to the last jump, I thought I played it a bit safe. I thought I had done a pretty aggressive round that someone would have to try hard to catch. It got a little closer thank I would have liked, but we had luck on our side today.

“She’s a sensational horse,” Kent added. “She was always extremely, extremely careful. She had a bit of a wild personality, but she’s always been an exceptional athlete and a special horse. I’m very proud of what she’s developed into. We’re still at the very start of her career. I’m excited to see where it goes.”

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The British team goes to the Paris Olympics with “a real spring in our step”, having won a second home Nations Cup at the Agria Royal International Horse Show on the trot, with the Netherlands second and Ireland third.

Ben Maher (Exit Remo), Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria), Robert Whitaker (Vermento) and John Whitaker (Equine America Unick Du Francport) retained the Edward Prince of Wales Cup in the Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain, John and Unick Du Francport sealing the deal as the last combination in the arena with a fabulous clear.

Asked if the pressure made it harder – one fence down would have meant a jump-off with the Dutch and two second place – John said: “It’s a bit weird; I think it actually makes me ride better. When the pressure is on, I think that brings out the best in me.

“You just go in and focus on doing the job but luckily my horse is on good form. The first round was a bit hairy towards the end but we managed to leave them up, and the second round felt really good.”

“I thought these guys would have made it a bit easier for me!” he added. “But we won and that’s all that counts.”

The British team had meant business from the off with a zero score in round one; Robert and Vermento were unlucky to clip just the Hickstead planks for four faults as the drop score but the other three combinations all jumped clear. No other team went to the second round with a clean sheet, but the Netherlands – Bas Moerings (Ipsthar), Mel Thijssen (Imodo), Tani Joosten (Galdal Me) and Lars Kersten (Funky Fred Marienshof Z) – were snapping at their heels on four faults.

The Irish team of Denis Lynch (Vistogrand), Max Wachman (Kilkenny), Tom Wachman (Berlux Z) and Cian O’Connor (Fermoy) were only a fence behind on eight so there was all to play for in round two.

Ben and Exit Remo jumped another foot-perfect clear, then Tim and Medoc tipped just the Liverpool at fence seven. Bas, the first Dutch rider, also finished four, then Tani on eight, and Denis and Vistogrand had added another four to Ireland’s tally. If Robert and Vermento could jump clear, the win would be ours.

Vermento came in on strong form but took the last two rails. And when the last Dutch rider, Lars, made up for his 16-fault first round with a beautiful clear, it was all in the hands of John, the veteran of more than 180 Nations Cups.

And it was better this way, certainly for the crowd, as John showed the world, again, what a legend he is, cool and calm as he gave a faultless display to secure the back-to-back home wins.

“It was great to win again,” he said. “We had something to live up to after last year, and we did it.”

John joked that even better than the second win was something he was asked in the warm-up: “Someone said could they have a picture of me and my brother,” he said, grinning at Robert. “That was even better than winning the Nations Cup!”

Robert said it was great to be on the team with his dad again.

“And to win is fantastic,” he said, adding when asked about his faults: “I was just testing how good he really is!”

Tim, who as well as Ben and Exit Remo and John and Unick was on the 2023 winning team at Hickstead, said the win “feels even better this year”.

“It’s surreal,” he said. “I keep banging on about the importance of Hickstead to our country. When I was doing working hunters here, I remember getting an autograph from John and thinking ‘That’s what I want to do’, so to be sitting here with him; without them, those dreams don’t happen.”

All the riders, and Hickstead director Edward Bunn, were united in their gratitude to Agria, which took over as sponsors of the class after it was not included in the revamped FEI Longines League of Nations.

“I’m very proud and happy to be on this team,” said Ben. “Thank you to Agria. I grew up here on ponies, as many of us did, and the history behind this competition means a lot to the sport. And without the sponsorship, it wouldn’t happen, so thank you very much.”

British chef d’equipe Di Lampard said the result was a “real feel-good” one for the whole sport.

“I think the British team has picked up momentum this year,” she said. “The goal has always been Paris but to pick up momentum like we have, in Rotterdam and Aachen – and the SMART goal of winning here again! – will really give us a spring in our step for Paris. We’re really looking forward to it.”

Di added that the Nations Cup series is invaluable in bringing forward the next generation of riders – something Ben had also been doing this morning when his young son was in action in the under-10s jumping.

“It’s been a long time since I rode here on ponies but it’s great you can start from the beginning here, and go all the way to sitting here,” he said. “And I’m sure many of them will be watching and hoping to be doing this job. But it was harder work running round the cross-poles this morning than riding this afternoon!”

Vicki Wentworth, chief executive of Agria UK, said she could not put into words how proud she was of the team.

“The Nations Cup of Great Britain, the first time we’ve sponsored it and I’m there giving the prize to the British team,” she said. “It’s an amazing, amazing achievement and I’m so proud. Well done.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Olympic Games, the Royal International Horse Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also be interested in:

Celebrating 150 (and counting): rider set to reach remarkable Nations Cup milestone at Hickstead

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‘The best day’: an emotional John Whitaker helps Great Britain triumph in Hickstead Nations Cup

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Irish showjumper Cian O’Connor is set to reach a remarkable career milestone at the Agria Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead this afternoon (Friday 26 July).

In the feature showjumping class, the Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain, the much decorated rider will represent Ireland in a Nations Cup competition for the 150th time.

This outstanding sporting achievement comes 25 years after Cian made his Nations Cup debut at the age of 19 and his first top-tier team appearance in the green coat of Ireland came at Hickstead the following year.

“It feels like a full circle moment,” Cian told H&H of his landmark return to the British venue.

“In 1999, I did two Nations Cups – one in Zagreb in Croatia and one in Athens. Then in 2000, I did Helsinki, Drammen and Falsterbo, before my first five-star came at Hickstead in 2000.”

For his 150th Nations Cup appearance at Hickstead on Friday afternoon, Cian will be riding the 10-year-old stallion Fermoy, co-owned with Keira Stoute and Sarah Stoute. But this milestone will be “extra special” as the Dublin native will be riding on Ireland’s showjumping team alongside two of his pupils, Max Wachman with Kilkenny and brother Tom Wachman riding Berlux Z, both of whom were part of Ireland’s gold medal-winning young riders team at the European Championships in the Netherlands last week. Denis Lynch will act as Ireland’s pathfinder in Friday’s Nations Cup riding Vistogrand.

Cian O’Connor: “Great people and horses have crossed my path”

“I’ve been very lucky – not only with the people that have crossed my path but the great horses that have crossed my path, too – and I’ve had fantastic opportunities,” said Cian reflecting on his 150 Nations Cup caps, which include four victories in the Aga Khan Trophy in Dublin, and helping to secure Ireland’s place at the Tokyo Olympics with a high-pressure win at the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona in 2019.

“I think it was a bit easier back in the early days – you jumped nationally, then there wasn’t much choice, your career was in the chef d’equipe’s hands and if you wanted to travel abroad you went on Nations Cups. One year I jumped on 12 Nations Cups, whereas nowadays riders do two, three or four because there are so many other circuits going on.

“So it’s a nice milestone to reach, but things are very different now.”

“I won’t break John Whitaker’s Nations Cup record!”

Twelve months ago at Hickstead, Great Britain’s Olympic legend John Whitaker – who turns 70 next year – sealed his 180th Nations Cup appearance with a British win, but Cian O’Connor said that’s not a record he’ll be chasing.

“I won’t break John’s record, because I’m sure I won’t be riding for as long as him!” said Cian, 44. “But it’s nice to celebrate 150.”

This will be Cian’s first Nations Cup appearance with Fermoy, but the stallion has been jumping well at five-star in recent months, including a win in Ocala, Florida, finishing 10th in the Aachen grand prix and a double clear for sixth in the grand prix of Rotterdam.

“He’s since had a little break, jumped clear in [Thursday’s] 1.50m class and he feels on real form, so I’m looking forward to jumping the Nations Cup with him,” said Cian, who has recently been joined at his Karlswood stables by former leading international rider Cameron Hanley.

“I’m delighted to have Cameron on board – he’s helping me with Max and Tom but also some other students. I try to have the best people around me because as Karlswood has grown and developed, you can’t do it all on your own, so I’m very lucky to have such great people on the ground.”

Cian O’Connor, who won individual bronze at the London 2012 Olympics, has been selected to represent Ireland at his fourth Olympic Games in Paris next week riding another horse co-owned with Keira and Sarah Stoute, the 12-year-old Maurice.

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You may also like to read…

‘What a day to be Irish’: a momentous team win, but British disappointment

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Ireland threw down the gauntlet in the Mercedes-Benz Aachen Nations Cup, securing the win with three riders gone – and two combinations who will be travelling to Paris for the Olympics jumping double clear – with Mexico and Britain finishing a fence behind in second and third place respectively.

Denis Lynch (Vistogrand), Bertram Allen (Pacino Amiro), Shane Sweetnam (James Kann Cruz, pictured) and Cian O’Connor (Fancy De Kergane) were one of five teams who took a clean sheet to the second round, with just the first fence down from Denis and his European silver medal-winning ride as the discard score. Shane and James Kann Cruz are on the Irish Olympic team and Bertram and Pacino Amiro are the alternate combination.

They were level-pegging with Sweden, Mexico, Britain and the Netherlands, but then jumped three clears in succession in round two, so Cian and the nine-year-old stallion did not have to jump.

“I thought they weren’t so bad!” said Irish chef d’equipe Michael Blake of his team. “When Denis had that first fence that he didn’t want, it looked like a long way home, but that was the first and last fence we had all night.

“We’re so delighted to be here; it’s been a long time since we won here but it was the plan all year to bring the best team here, and thankfully things went our way tonight. Thank you to Mexico and Great Britain for pushing us all the way to the line, and the crowd was unbelievable. This show is phenomenal.”

Britain were in fine form, with only one unlucky rail for Harry Charles and Casquo Blue as the discard score in round one and Ben Maher (Dallas Vegas Batilly), Scott Brash and his Paris Olympics ride Hello Jefferson and Robert Whitaker and Vermento jumping clear.

Ben and Scott repeated their foot-perfect performances in the second round but the luck was not with Harry, who hit the first part of the double, the US planks and the German oxer for 12 faults. Robert and the Blatchfords’ 11-year-old stallion jumped a super round just clipping the same fence in the double, putting Britain on a total of four.

This was the same finishing score as Mexico: Nicolas Pizzaro (Pia Contra), Andres Azcarraga (Contendros 2), Federico Fernandez (Romeo) and Eugenio Garza Perez (Contago), who edged ahead thanks to a two-second time advantage.

British showjumping performance manager Di Lampard said she was delighted with the result, and the way the partnerships performed.

“They’re really coming into form at the right time,” she said. “The team as a whole are really coming together; third place in Rotterdam last week was exciting, then in top competition here. The last three years we’ve been on the podium here.”

Di cited the quality of the field, as shown by the number of clear rounds, and the fact the British team was more than up for the challenge.

“We’ve had a steady start to the year, but every four years, our goal is the Olympic Games and I feel the riders and horses – each partnership has had its individual plan – are going towards the Games, and hopefully we’re going to peak in August.”

The last team outing before Paris will be the British Nations Cup at the Royal International Horse Show.

“We’ll be there; and we want to retain our trophy.’ Di said.

‘We’ll give it everything’: Ireland names Olympic showjumping team for Paris 2024

British Olympic showjumping team is revealed: who has been selected for Paris 2024?

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In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, there was huge disappointment when prolonged torrential rain brought the St Gallen leg of the Longines League of Nations to a halt. In Saint Tropez, however, the sun was shining brightly for a special celebrity guest from the world of Formula One and a pioneering female-only showjumping team reigns victorious.

Read on for this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Max meets Max: F1 hero enjoys front row seats for a spot of showjumping

Austrian showjumper Max Kühner had a congratulatory handshake from Formula One hero Max Verstappen, who was watching the Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix of Ramatuelle, Saint Tropez.

Max Kühner and EIC Up Too Jacco Blue triumphed ahead of France’s Simon Delestre on Cayman Jolly Jumper, with championship leader Eduardo Alvarez Aznar third on 19-year-old Rokfeller De Pleville Bois Margot.

“What a day! It’s great to stand on top of a Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix podium again, particularly here in Ramatuelle, Saint Tropez, with Max Verstappen watching us,” said the winning rider.

• LGCT Saint Tropez grand prix results

Showjumping news: “challenging circumstances” cause havoc in St Gallen

St Gallen’s Longines League of Nations, due to take place on Friday 31 May, was cancelled owing to prolonged heavy rain. FEI jumping director Todd Hinde said: “Despite extensive planning, the weather conditions made the situation extremely difficult and we very much appreciate the efforts of riders, chefs, grooms, officials and the organiser in trying to find solutions in the challenging circumstances. While this is regrettable, we believe under the circumstances this was the right decision to make.”

The loss of this team competition comes at a crucial point for Paris 2024 Olympic selectors as entries deadlines loom. No points will be allocated for the 2024 series from the St Gallen leg and the league will continue instead in Rotterdam on 21 June, after which the standings for Barcelona will be calculated.

Tim Gredley, who had been picked to represent Great Britain in Friday’s League of Nations competition said, “The League of Nations shows are the pick of the circuit, so to get to that stage and not jump was disappointing, but a lot of people are in the same boat. Imperial HBF is in great form and I was so looking forward to that Nations Cup with him. I gave him a jump the day before and he never felt better.”

Martin Fuchs and Commissar Pezi won Sunday’s 1.60m Defender grand prix in St Gallen with the sole clear round, and Britain’s sole representative Robert Whitaker and Vermento finished ninth with five faults. Of the few supporting classes to go ahead at the five-star show, two went to Irish riders – Denis Lynch and Vistogrand topped the 1.50m MS Direct Group Prize and Mark McAuley (Fury Nocturne) won the Thommen Recycling Prize.

• St Gallen results

Showjumping news: speed Derby success for Debney

Great Britain’s Grace Debney won Devon Horse Show’s speed Derby in USA riding Zarina De Vidau while Darragh Kenny and Serendepety flew to victory in the welcome stakes.

• Devon Horse Show results

Girl power: the first women-only jumping team triumphs

Finally in this week’s showjumping news round-up, we return to Ramatuelle, Saint Tropez, where the first women-only jumping team Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames triumphed in the latest leg of the GCL. This pioneering project founded by Deborah Mayer of the Iron Dames secured their second win of the year. They were represented by Katrin Eckermann and Kim Emmen; the former describing winning as “an amazing feeling”.

“We won the first stage in Doha and have been very unlucky since,” said Katrin. “In Doha we had different women in our team so it shows how strong we are. We are just women in the sport following our dreams and right now I don’t want to ever stop it.”

Malin Baryard-Johnsson, part of the third-placed GCL team added, “To have four women out of six athletes on the podium shows the girl power within the sport.”

“We love that,” added her team-mate Jessica Springsteen.

• GCL results

And let’s hear it for the boys, too!

Great Britain’s Olli Fletcher and Hello William landed the CSI3* 1.50m class in Le Touquet, France, from a field of 77.

“He has so much personality, he’s king of the stable and always will be – he’s my baby and gets treated better than any human,” said Olli of Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham’s 12-year-old. “Even talking about him puts a smile on my face. He has such a big heart and I can’t thank the Harrises and the Kirkhams enough for giving me the opportunity to ride my ‘horse of a lifetime’.”

Not to be outdone, Scotsman Sandy McLean continued his 19-strong winning streak from Sentower Park with a run of eight successes in Lier.

A medal haul for Great Britain in Zuidwolde

In the Youth Nations Cup, there were medals galore for young British riders. The junior squad secured silver, represented by Maisy Williams (Dalton D’Hoyo), Noora von Bulow (Interstar B), Charlie Atkinson on Ballingowan Leia and Olivia Sponer on Equine America Bingo Du Chateau.

“The pressure was on, but they delivered,” said team manager Clare Whitaker.

The young rider quartet of Rachel Proudley (Petitfour VD Wareslage), Jake Myers (J Superstar), Lauren Caroline (Elmira Mail) and Ava Vernon on Volnay De Choc Z took bronze, while Lauren Caroline (Gait L), Olivia Sponer and pony rider Emily Gulliver (Fleur De Nuit 8) all finished on the individual podium during the concluding grands prix.

“Gait L is very naturally quick, has a very big heart and always tries to jump clear,” said Lauren. “I know him well now as we bought him from Shane Breen two and half years ago; he said he was the horse for Junior classes and he was right, it was a very good buy.”

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Olympic showjumping team hopeful Tim Gredley has a busy June ahead of him as he attempts to pull off a unique Derby double.

On Saturday (1 June) after fulfilling his previous day’s League Of Nations team duties in St Gallen, Switzerland, the Newmarket-based showjumper is travelling to Epsom Racecourse in Surrey where his family’s racehorse Ambiente Friendly lines up as one of the favourites for the historic Flat race, the Betfred Derby.

Three weeks later, at the world famous Hickstead Derby, Tim is hoping his showjumping stable jockey Joe Clayton can triumph with his Unex Competition Yard-owned Gentlemen VH Veldhof, with whom Tim finished 15th in last year’s contest.

“It certainly would be an odd double,” smiles Tim. “But that’s the aim!”

Tim Gredley: “We took his shoes off and let him enjoy some time in the field”

Ambiente Friendly was bought last year by Tim’s father Bill Gredley with former jockey Freddy Tylicki. The family’s patience and vision with the “tearaway” two-year-old have been richly rewarded with a three-year-old colt who now heads to the Epsom Classic as second favourite behind the Aidan O’Brien-trained City Of Troy.

“We sent him into training with James Fanshawe straight from the breeze-ups last year. I went to watch him one morning and he was lathered in sweat, just not ready to be doing what he was doing,” Tim tells H&H. “So we took the decision to take his shoes off and let him enjoy some time in the field for three months over the summer to grow and develop, and just let his mind get a bit better.”

Ambiente Friendly, who is by the Coolmore stallion Gleneagles out of Fastnet Rock mare Roxity, returned to Newmarket trainer James Fanshawe in July and won his first race at Leicester over seven furlongs “quite easily”.

“Everybody obviously hopes they have a potential Derby horse but he showed that day he had an engine, it just needed a bit of managing,” recalls Tim. “We wanted to see what we really had after that, so we ran him in a Group Three at Newmarket and we got the tactics all wrong – we should have begun to teach him to settle then, rather than letting him bowl along.

“We were all a bit annoyed with ourselves, but we learnt from that and we took the decision that he wasn’t going to be a Guineas horse – his mind wasn’t right for it – and instead the Fanshawes did a brilliant job spending the whole winter teaching him to settle in behind horses and canter slowly.”

“It’s just nice to be involved in the Derby conversation”

Ambiente Friendly finished fourth in his seasonal reappearance in a Listed race at Newmarket for new jockey Callum Shepherd, before stepping up in distance for Lingfield’s Derby Trial on 11 May, which he won with devastating ease, beating the Aidan O’Brien-trained Illinois. The Betfred Derby, part of the QIPCO British Champions series, is now the ultimate goal in this remarkable journey and experienced jockey Rab Havlin has been booked to ride Ambiente Friendly in the race.

“The plan came off and it’s very exciting now,” says Tim. “It’s lucky that we’ve managed him right, because he could very easily not be where he is now if we’d carried on with him as a two-year-old.

“It looks like it’s an open Derby this year – obviously you have to be realistic when you’re up against those big guys and we’re very aware they won’t be letting anyone have any sort of advantage or easy ride! We’d be delighted to be up among the top three or four. Really it’s just nice to be involved in the conversation.”

On to the Hickstead Derby…

After Derby day at Epsom, Tim Gredley will return to St Gallen to jump in Sunday’s five-star grand prix.

“With this new rule you can only jump two horses in the League Of Nations shows anyway, so there wouldn’t be anything for me to jump in on the Saturday – so I hope it’s doable to make it to Epsom on the Saturday for the Derby, then get back to St Gallen on the Sunday for the grand prix,” he says. “It’s not very often you get a runner in the Derby, let alone one with a real chance, so I’m not going to miss it!”

According to Tim, Hickstead’s Al Shira’aa Derby has also been the long-term plan for Joe Clayton and the 18-year-old Gentlemen VH Veldhof.

“I’m letting Joe and Gentlemen give it a go this year – I can’t do everything at the moment!” he says. “I think he’ll have a really good chance – the horse has never been fitter or looked healthier and has been round a couple of times with me.

“Joe’s been on flying form with him recently and really that’s been the plan since the beginning of the year, for Joe to go and win the Hickstead Derby.”

Can they pull it off? Watch this space!

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The future of British showjumping looks brighter than ever judging by the wealth of talent on show from the victorious Nations Cup pony team in France at the weekend. At the other end of the scale, we were left in awe after global superstars Henrik von Eckermann and King Edward made showjumping news headlines by producing a swathe of faultless performances to be crowned World Cup winners for the second year in a row.

It’s all happening in this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: British pony team first-timers strike gold

Great Britain fielded a high-calibre quartet, the majority of whom were team debutants, for the pony competition at the FEI Nations Cup Youth in Compiegne, France, where they struck gold, winning on a zero score. Hollie Gerkin with Galaxy V, Sophia Rogers (Neil 55), Cate Kerr on Cindy and Aimee Paxton riding Las Vegas topped the podium ahead of Switzerland on a score of six, with Ireland’s James Derwin (Rincoola Babog), Lauren Adams (Slieve Bloom Bella Rose), Annie Boland (K-Little Hero) and Charlie Flynn (HK Zero) in third.

“They are all team first-timers, and they rode and coped very well,” said Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker. “It is looking promising for the European Championships this year with a depth of choice.”

British riders filled five of the top seven placings in the grand pix with 15-year-old Aimee Paxton finishing second to Mathilda Hansson (Helga TH O), and team-mate Sophia Rogers in third.

Ireland’s children-on-horses squad of Charlie Flynn (Elia), Ted Fagan on Consol, Robbie Sheehan riding Fubalia and Sam Widger (Jerenice Dysenbeeck Z) won the Nations Cup, where Great Britain’s quartet of Rosie Smith (Fruselli), Honey Bowes on Javas El Cid, Ted Bastian-Mason (Chacco Bay) and Lottie Adams with Khaleesi OL finished equal second.

Henry Squibb (Kimba Kasino), Ella Spencer (Gilton Des Islots) and Rosie Smith on Azolette also flew the British flag with individual victories.

FEI Nations Cup Youth results

Up there with Milton and Shutterfly

Henrik von Eckermann’s superstar partner King Edward was elevated to the ranks of such legends as Milton and Shutterfly when he became the first horse for 25 years to win back-to-back World Cup Finals.

“To be here winning two times is something I could never have dreamed of when I was younger,” said the world number one.

Read the full report from the World Cup Finals in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops 25 April.

FEI World Cup Finals results

Showjumping news: back in the winner’s enclosure after a year-long recovery

Ireland’s Jordan Coyle won the $32,000 Equine Tack & Nutritionals CSI3* 1.45m speed class on the grass Derby field at the Equestrian Village at the Wellington International, Florida, USA – a welcome comeback after a year-long recovery from injury for the mare.

“We’d had Costa for about 10 months with quite high expectations when she got an injury,” said Jordan of the 12-year-old Componist Champblanc x Allegreto mare owned by Elan Farm, who sustained damage to her deep digital flexor tendon.

“Unfortunately, that was it for us. It’s taken exactly one year to get her back to the show ring,” said Jordan of the months of rest, hand-walks and a slow push back to fitness under the watchful eyes of Elan Farm grooms Marketa Churova and Miša Honzova.

“I have to give them 90% of the credit because they did most of the work to get her back and it was a serious job.

“She’s quite easy, so building her back was just about taking our time,” he added. “We did a 1.20m, then a 1.30m and then a 1.40m. I would almost say that she’s a better horse now than she was when we got her.

“We have taken our time because I think she’s a very good horse; she’s mostly careful, but also easy to ride and has enough scope. It’s great to have her back and now we are going to have a bit of fun and not put her under too much pressure.”

Just one Cornetta

And finally in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, we move closer to home and Ireland’s Mikey Pender made his first visit to Chard Equestrian Centre in Somerset a winning one, lifting the CSI2* grand prix with nine-year-old Irish sport horse HHS Cornetta. He beat William Whitaker on Chacco’s Lando into second, with Britain-based Frenchman Gaspard Maksud third on Ballypatrick Tiberius.

“She’s a very talented mare, who wants to do the job as much as I do,” said Mikey.

You can read the full report from the CSI2* Chard in next week’s Horse & Hound magazine.

CSI2* Chard results

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Teenage showjumper Tallulah Mackenzie Smith is making waves in the sport and is currently in France representing Great Britain at back-to-back youth Nations Cup competitions.

But she’s endured a rocky road over the past three years after top mare Nistria VD Winning Z broke a bone in her foot while competing at the Al Shira’aa Jumping Championships at Hickstead.

Tallulah, 19, had only had the super Non Stop mare for a matter of weeks, having bought her from Carron Nicol in 2021, when the accident happened, and the early prognosis was not bright.

“Originally we were told she’d never be ridden again and it was game over for her, so to have her back is the best thing ever,” says Tallulah. “She was off for a year and a half in total. She only came back to competition last year, it’s remarkable really.

“She was pretty good about the whole thing – I think she knew she needed fixing and we were trying to help her. But by the end she was definitely saying ‘Get me out of here!’”

Tallulah Mackenzie Smith: “It was the best thing ever to be back in the ring with her”

According to Tallulah, Nistria has returned to the ring “wanting it even more”. They’ve been jumping some great clear rounds at CSI2* and CSI3* shows, stepping up to CSI4* in Spain last month. They had a good run at Pony Of The Year Show before heading to Compiegne this week and she has been picked for the young rider Nations Cup team competing in Czechia next week (Friday 26 April).

When she returns from her stint abroad, Tallulah is hoping to contest next month’s prestigious Defender under-25 competition at Royal Windsor Horse Show.

“She’s loving it again now,” says Wiltshire-based Tallulah. “It was the best thing ever to be back in the ring with her – I’ll never take it for granted again.

“She has such big character – she’s cheeky, too, she goes round the warm-up trying to bite everyone near her!”

Tallulah Mackenzie Smith is also making great strides with a couple of new rides, the very exciting nine-year-old mare Cubix Van De Berghoeve Z and the talented eight-year-old British-bred stallion Minted. She’s hoping to contest talent seekers with both this summer, while her great partner Karaibes is also core to an exciting string.

Tallulah finished school last year and has a place to start at university in September, but is considering pursuing her dreams in an already exciting showjumping career.

“I’ve always loved showjumping, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do and I can’t imagine not doing it – but it’s also tough making it pay as a business,” she says. “So I will have to decide, but at the moment I’m just taking things step by step. I’d like to become more consistent in the two-star grands prix and do a few more ranking classes.

“But I don’t think I’ll ever have another horse like Nistria. We’re such a team and she just wants to win. She’s a proper fighter and if I’m ever a bit nervous I can feel her saying, ‘Don’t be silly, we’ve got a job to do, we’ve got this’. She’s so tough, just amazing.”

You can read about more of this year’s Defender under-25 contenders at this year’s Royal Windsor in next week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 25 April.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This week’s international showjumping news round-up focuses on a thrilling second leg of the new-look Longines League of Nations (LLN), at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.

Ireland’s showjumpers are looking stronger than ever this year and an ecstatic quartet were back on top of the world after a dominant performance in a high-calibre contest. There was disappointment for the Brits there, but in Spain, cousins Donald Whitaker and Joe Clayton flew the flag in tremendous style with a grand prix one-two.

Read on for a round-up of this week’s international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: ‘What a day to be Irish’

Cian O’Connor proclaimed, “What a day to be Irish” after he helped a competitive Irish side to a momentous win in the second leg of the Longines League of Nations (LLN) series in Florida, USA.

Going one better than Ireland’s runner-up spot in Abu Dhabi last month, Cian joined Darragh Kenny, Daniel Coyle and Shane Sweetnam, with the Irish side dominating from the outset to secure a brilliant victory with a team score of five, ahead of Switzerland who rocketed up the leaderboard in round two with a full house of clears, finishing with eight penalties.

USA and Netherlands had held the lead with Ireland on a zero score after round one but mistakes started to creep in for both teams during the second rounds and they each completed with 12; the USA joined the podium ahead of the Dutch with a marginally quicker time.

In the first round, clears from Darragh on Amsterdam 27), Daniel on Legacy and Shane riding Nations Cup debutant Otis Blue – a late replacement for an injured Bertram Allen – meant that Cian wasn’t required to jump Maurice. But this combination entered the equation under the spotlights in round two on Saturday night as one of the trio picked by chef d’equipe Michael Blake to contest the decider.

With four faults already collected at the midway double by Darragh but with nothing to add from Daniel and Ariel Grange’s mighty mare Legacy, Cian carried the pressure of knowing that a single rail could cost them victory, potentially forcing a jump-off with the USA. But he and the 12-year-old Maurice, recently bought into by Sarah Stoute of Keysoe International, remained foot perfect over the obstacles set by Alan Wade, just adding a time-fault, which would seal a momentous victory for an ecstatic Irish side.

“I’m so proud and honoured to work with these guys and they put in an incredible performance,” said Michael, with Ireland now clear at top of the standings at the halfway point in the LLN series. “The other nine nations – who make up the top 10 in the world rankings – sent their best to Ocala and we saw them off in style. There is no room for error in the League of Nations and my lads showed that they thrive on that pressure.”

An “over the moon” Cian said: “What a day to be Irish. We’ve been working towards this for some months and I feel privileged to ride alongside these great guys. The team is building great momentum with this win following up our recent win in Wellington [four-star Nations Cup].

“You can only deliver when last to go if the team have done their job, and my job was easy riding with these three guys, they had amazing clear rounds and they set the whole thing up for me!”

Daniel summed up, “I’ve jumped lots of double clears with Legacy before but this is that bit more special. It feels like I’ve been getting Legacy ready for five years for a night like this.”

Otis Blue is new to this level and Shane credited this “very talented horse”.

“We got the job done and got us into a good position for the second round,” he said.

Once again, the rollercoaster of fortunes in this new format team showjumping competition played out in round two, when there is no drop score. A fall from Kevin Staut after a refusal on Beau De Laubry Z resulted in France’s elimination and Belgium plummeted down the leaderboard with a surprise run-out from Niels Bruynseels’ Delux Van T&L. There was also disappointment for reigning Olympic, world and European champions Sweden and Great Britain who failed to qualify for the second round, finishing ninth and 10th respectively from a high-calibre field that featured 16 of the top 20 riders in the world. The series now returns to Europe, with the next leg in St Gallen at the end of May.

A winning start for Cian O’Connor

Cian O’Connor had already posted victory in Friday’s Winning Round showjumping class at World Equestrian Center riding Fermoy. Cian and the 10-year-old Chaccos’ Son stallion co-owned with Sarah Stoute of Keysoe International were drawn second in round two, producing a scorching clear which proved unbeatable.

“I picked up a time-fault the first round but as everyone’s going back in for round two on zero, the only disadvantage was being early in the draw,” explained the Irishman. “That worked out OK, because I think a lot of the guys tried to go too quick in the second round. The fences were big enough that they ended up having a rail.”

Maurice, previously ridden by Maurice Tebbel, is “a bit of a character”.

“He’s a very easy horse to ride. He’s very brave, has huge scope, is really careful and fast,” said Cian. “I’ve basically been trying to tame him and work with him over the last five months since I’ve had him. I was happy to have the opportunity to go against the clock and let him travel a little bit, and you can see that he answers the questions and nearly goes a foot higher. I couldn’t be happier with him.”

Cousins finish first and second in showjumping grand prix

Finally in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, British showjumper Donald Whitaker (Millfield Colette) pipped his cousin Joe Clayton (Commissaire S) to win the CSI3* 1.50m CHG grand prix to wrap up Spring MET III in Oliva Nova, Spain after a thrilling 10-way jump-off.

“It was a fast jump-off and my cousin Joe was first to go, so he set the pace,” said Donald. “My horse is naturally very fast – a bit too fast at times actually – so I was just trying to half nurse her round a little and then let her go to the last fence. I did one less stride there and I think I won it there. She has such a big stride.”

“She is really special,” he added of the Cornet Obolensky 11-year-old bred in Great Britain by Sue Jagger. “It took a while to figure her out. She has such a big heart, she is so brave and sharp. She has been knocking on the door for something for a while now.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Graham Fletcher shares his thoughts on the new-look Nations Cup and dealing with pressure

I was with David Broome recently as we celebrated his 84th birthday. He always has a balanced view on the sport of yesteryear compared with today. Indeed, it wasn’t long before we were talking about the FEI’s new Longines League of Nations (LLN) versus the Nations Cup format we’d known for years.

In particular, we reminisced about Hickstead and Dublin. I was lucky enough to be on the winning team at both. It’s obviously great to win in front of your home crowd – but the Aga Khan Trophy in Dublin is such a special day when the whole nation seems to come together in the hope of an Irish victory. Whatever the result, it never dampens the spirits of the evening’s get-togethers and parties. It always made me realise why, when it comes to selling, the Irish are in a different class than any other creed or country.

Nations Cups have historically been the FEI’s jewel in the crown and they’ve updated the system and prize money for this season to give it more worldwide recognition. The first of this year’s LLN series was in the UAE, with Ocala to come followed by St Gallen, Rotterdam and the final in Barcelona. I can appreciate how the FEI has made these revisions to keep pace with the prestige and prize money offered by the Global Champions League and Rolex Grand Slam.

In with the new

My son Olli was part of the Monaco Aces, competing in the first of the Globals at Doha in Qatar. He said that the pictures of the Al Shaqab stadium simply didn’t do it justice; everything from the decor to cleanliness of the whole building was mind-blowing.

The show was held over two consecutive weeks with €800,000 (£680,000) to be won across two grands prix. With the Cheltenham Festival on this week, it’s interesting to reflect that the Cheltenham Gold Cup has a prize fund of £625,000 while the Champion Hurdle is for £400,000 – statistics that reveal just how far showjumping has come.

The FEI has also changed the format for the new LLN. It used to be the three best scores from four riders to count for both rounds. Now, the first round is the same, but only three go in the second round with all to count. Many riders would have preferred to keep the old system, as would some chefs d’equipe who used it to give young riders valuable experience. I can understand their concerns.

However, it was some three years ago on these very pages that I suggested the idea of three-to-count second rounds because the Nations Cup was becoming too boring and confusing for modern sport. Let’s remember that the idea for team jumping came from early army competitions when they often struggled to get three out of four to finish!

A change for the better?

In recent seasons, we’ve heard commentators’ enthusiasm wane when one team was so far in front that their last rider didn’t even need to jump. Imagine how a Formula 1 crowd would react if Max Verstappen was leading with five laps to go – so they called him in saying, “You’ve obviously won, so save yourself for another day.”

Of course, there will be more pressure under the new format. But that’s what modern sport is all about. Take the penalty shoot-out in football… if only three out of four counted, the competition would go on all night.

I remember the England manager Gareth Southgate talking me through the penalty kick he so famously missed. “When I started walking from the halfway line, I knew I was going to score,” he told me. “But the closer I got to the goal, the smaller it seemed to get.”

I’ve never heard pressure explained better – and that’s what the three riders in a team will feel. Some riders will be better suited to it than others, and there will be big disappointments along the way. But at least nobody will be leaving their seat until the last one jumps.

● Do you agree with Graham about the new-look LLN? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 14 March

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

In this week’s international showjumping news round-up, there is plenty to celebrate for a unique team of Irish horses in the Nations Cup at Wellington International’s Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) – something team manager Michael Blake said he’d never seen “in 100 Nations Cups”.

A young British rider also posts a landmark first five-star victory in Doha, Qatar, and a highly anticipated rising British equine star achieves a watershed coming-of-age performance.

Read on for a round-up of the highlights of this week’s international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: “This team is a little unusual”

Ireland fielded a mix of Olympic veterans and team debutant horses for the $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup during week eight of WEF, which proved to be a winning formula as they topped a cracking contest between the 10 teams.

Pathfinder Darragh Kenny (Eddy Blue), David O’Brien (El Balou OLD), Shane Sweetnam (RR Combella) and Cian O’Connor with Fancy de Kergane topped the leaderboard ahead of Canada and the USA. Great Britain’s squad of Jessica Mendoza (I-Cap CL Z), Tim Gredley (Imperial HBF), Sameh El Dahan (Oscar-A) and Ben Maher (Ginger-Blue) finished in fourth.

“This feels amazing – I’m so lucky that my parents had their flights organised, all my students, my clients and my sponsors are here, we’ve had a great night,” said Irish squad debutant David, who jumped clear in round one, just adding two time-faults in the second leg for owners Chansonette and Leap Year Farms.

“It was a very strong team, I was thinking to myself how many times have the three of them [Shane, Cian and Darragh] competed for Ireland compared with some other teams. It’s really special for me to be sitting up here with three Olympians. They are so experienced.

“I came in on a horse who was willing to fight for me and who doesn’t want to knock any poles down. The horse has a long history and I got him because he was a difficult child, and he needed a continuing program. To me, he’s my number one, so every day we’re out for a long time and it’s a process to keep him focused. But results-wise, I’m very happy with him. He’s probably been the reason I was able to go out on my own and have a business.

“I’m delighted it paid off and everything came together. It’s a great atmosphere, when you come in the ring everything is pumped up. My heart was pumping, the horse’s heart was pumping. There was a big cheer when we cleared the last fence.”

Darragh Kenny jumped for clear and four on Kerry Anne LLC’s Eddy Blue.

“I love to ride for Ireland. It’s one of my favorite things, second to winning, of course,” he said. “But winning with an Irish team, that’s even better.

“Eddy Blue has never done two rounds like that before, but he seemed to step up to the occasion very well.”

Anchorman Cian O’Connor on Coolmore Showjumping’s Fancy De Kergane jumped clear in round one but was able to sit out round two, with team victory already in the bag.

“We saw a bit of everything in the course tonight,” said Cian. “Obviously, it plays a part with one round in the daytime then one at night. Both rounds were light, delicate and the plank was difficult to judge.

“This horse is only nine, so he’s just stepping up to this level. There aren’t many nine-year-olds able to do this, so I’m very happy with him. There’s something very special about the night classes here. So many people were here tonight and it’s one that everyone wants to win.”

Shane Sweetnam and the mare RR Combella jumped for four faults in each round.

“That’s the purpose of giving her a chance in this – you really do learn a lot,” he revealed. “She showed her character and how good a horse she is. I think the rider could have done better, but I was very happy with her, especially at the end to go and give a solid round to make sure that we did win.”

Irish chef d’equipe Michael Blake said: “This team is a little unusual. In 100 and something Nations Cups that I’ve been involved in, I’ve never had a full team where none of the horses ever jumped a Nations Cup before. That shows true depth in that we could put out a team of new horses, very good horses, but still new horses.

“On paper we didn’t look like the favourites, but I knew we’d be hard to beat. Canada looked strong, the US looked very strong, but we had a lot of experience, and we know how to dig deep.

“We love to come here because the atmosphere is amazing. To see a full house, that’s what lifts you, it’s very special.”

• WEF Nations Cup results

“A big day in the office” for 20-year-old Olli Fletcher

British rising star Olli Fletcher described winning his first five-star class, at the LGCT of Doha, Qatar, as “a big day in the office” and he couldn’t have been happier with Alison Walton’s 12-year-old BP Pocahontas after winning the opening tw0-phase.

“It was an amazing show – the stadium and the arena are beyond anything I’d ever jumped in, so I’m happy the horses enjoyed it with some good results,” Olli told H&H. “Winning my first five-star is definitely a memory that won’t be forgotten, that’s for sure. It was very special.

“My mum and owners Alison and John Walton had come from South Africa to watch, which was lovely because they’ve been instrumental in my career,” added Olli, who also made his debut for GCL team Monaco Aces on Hello William. “Both the horse and I learnt a lot and we’re looking forward to the season ahead.”

Another five-star winner at the show was Ireland’s Denis Lynch with the mighty stallion Vistogrand.

• LGCT Doha results

Holly Smith’s 14-year-old stallion makes sensational comeback

Making a welcome return to the showjumping news headlines this week was Holly Smith’s 14-year-old stallion Fruselli, who jumped to a victory double after a year on the sidelines.

The flying duo landed the ClipMyHorse.TV grand prix on the CSI2* Andalucia Sunshine Tour in Spain, having topped the Vejer Trophy speed class on Thursday, where she beat Tabitha Kyle on last week’s six-bar winner Desterly. Holly described it as “a bit of an emotional” result after “a long road back from injury” for the stunning chestnut.

Guy Williams was among the other British winners this week on the tour, landing the 1.45m ranking class on 12-year-old stallion Ernie Of Greenhill Z.

• Andalucia Sunshine Tour results

Showjumping news: an emotional victory as LGCT season kicks off

The first Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) crown of the new season was earned by Belgium’s Abdel Saïd riding Bonne Amie in the €375,000 grand prix of Doha, Qatar, after a 10-way jump-off. The winning duo edged out Ireland’s LGCT grand prix first-timer Harry Allen on Calculatus by less than a quarter of a second, with Marcus Ehning third on relatively new ride Coolio 42.

“Bonne Amie is incredible, but she’s a big, sensitive lady and I struggled a little in the jump-offs last year,” said Abdel after securing his first LGCT grand prix victory. “I would maybe over-ride her a little, or not ride with enough feeling. But today it felt as though she matured and grew with some small changes and I’m thrilled it all came together. She truly deserves this win.”

Abdel has qualified for the new-look LGCT Super Grand Prix at the GC Playoffs in Riyadh this year.

• LGCT grand prix of Doha results

Tom Wachman and 15-year-old mare soar to glory

Next in this week’s showjumping news round-up is young Irish rider Tom Wachman, who teamed up with his European team gold and individual silver-winning 15-year-old mare Cathalina S (Salt N Pepa S x Sandro) to win a 1.45m speed class at WEF.

“I think I was the only one in the class to do five strides to the double of verticals,” said the 19-year-old. “Cathalina has a huge stride and that’s one of the big things for her, how she can be very quick in the speed classes. I think that’s where I probably won. She’s super.”

• WEF results

A winning streak for Ben Maher and a coming-of-age performance

And finally in this week’s international showjumping news round-up, the reigning Olympic champion Ben Maher celebrated a coming-of-age performance from rising star Point Break in the $200,000 CSIO4* grand prix at WEF, Florida.

The 10-year-old Swedish warmblood Action-Breaker x Balou Du Rouet stallion, owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright, produced the only double clear after a five-way jump-off.

“This is probably the biggest grand prix he’s won,” said Ben, who acquired the stallion as a six-year-old. “He’s just an incredible horse. He started at WEF in the seven-year-old jumpers. It wasn’t so long ago he was spooking off every golf cart and we were in the back arenas; I kept switching arenas trying to get the groundwork in. But he was always a very talented horse and he’s progressed very nicely.

“He’s a stallion and he’s had quite a few very nice foals now, but he’s like a pet when you’re not on him. But his athleticism is what separates him from the other horses. The way he can bend his body and move his shoulder allows my job to become much easier. I can ride at the jumps and trust that he can do the job for me.”

Earlier in the week, Ben had triumphed with Jane Clark’s 13-year-old mare Ginger-Blue in the WEF Challenge Cup, who also made her Nations Cup debut with Ben this week.

“It’s always special to win any FEI competition, especially here in Wellington; there’s a lot of good horse and rider combinations any week,” said Ben. “But there’s a lot of people that fly in especially for this week, so to start it like this is a confidence boost.

“There’s strength and depth in my team, both horses and people. It’s a great time to be able to ride right now,” added Ben, whose groom Kirsty Bond won the groom’s award in the grand prix.

• WEF results

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Top British showjumper and UAE chef d’equipe William Funnell discusses the new-look Nations Cups series, and further border woes when transporting horses to Europe for elite sport

Winning the recent four-star home Nations Cup with the UAE squad was a great result. They’re a talented team of riders, who were capable of qualifying for the Olympics before I joined them, but they’ve been working hard since. So it was nice to have built on all our groundwork and hopefully we can continue to do so.

We had a nice mix of two young riders and two more experienced. Although the competition was nothing like going to the Olympics, there’s always a lot more pressure performing in front of your home crowd, so it was nice to see them thrive – you never know how people will cope until they’re in that situation.

The difference between my job and Di Lampard’s is that I’m responsible for putting the right riders on the right horses and I select exactly what shows they do – which is good, but also comes with a lot of responsibility!

For the new-format Olympics, you need horses that are solid and are going to finish their rounds, and we fielded three new horses bought with that in mind. Although they had excellent records, you never really know if you’ve made a match until they’re in the ring with their new riders, so from their performances, we look to have some good combinations.

Longines League of Nations

The inaugural Longines League of Nations takes place here in the UAE this weekend (8–11 February). It’s tough with the World Cups in full swing, and plenty of riders in America, to tempt them to the UAE for one show, but there are some very good teams going.

Each country is now allowed to send only four riders, rather than five, for each event in the series, so with 10 nations’ horses coming from all over the world, I’ll be surprised if the odd one doesn’t pick up a knock or scrape and some have to start with a three-man team. Although every team goes down to three riders in round two under the new format anyway, that’s a massive disadvantage. Why are we flying horses all over the world anyway, when we had such lovely shows in Hickstead and Dublin in our calendar already?

It will be interesting to see how the second round plays out. You can’t cover a bad round with all scores counting, and just one small misfortune will take you from hero to zero. Does that make it more exciting? For some people maybe.

The Olympics are fast approaching, and very few countries are spoilt for horsepower. But isn’t it exciting that John Whitaker at the age of 68 has a potential horse and is planning his next Olympics? It’s going to be interesting to follow, that’s for sure!

Border woes

Later this year, not only will we have to do all the health and vet checks when transporting horses out of the country, we’re going to have to do the same on the way back as well. It already costs us nearly an extra day to get anywhere on the Continent, so with the added expense of those rules on the way back, the impact could be huge.

Hopefully that extra demand at home will be a big incentive for UK shows to up their offerings. We have good enough shows in the UK to keep producing young horses here, but the long and the short of it is that it’s far easier paperwork-wise to fly my horses out of Heathrow to Dubai than it is to get them to France and back, and that is a serious problem.

● Do you agree with William? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 8 February

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Success breeds success, according to the popular sporting hypothesis, and we see it in bucketloads in this week’s international showjumping news round-up.

From Daniel Coyle’s back-to-back World Cup wins with brilliant mare Legacy, to the input of two of Great Britain’s greatest showjumpers Nick Skelton and William Funnell in other riders’ success, there’s been plenty to celebrate in the world of showjumping. Read on for a round-up of this week’s international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: back-to-back World Cup success for Coyle and Legacy

Fresh from their World Cup success in Leipzig last weekend, Irish showjumper Daniel Coyle and Ariel Grange’s super 14-year-old mare Legacy triumphed again with another extraordinary performance in a World Cup thriller in Amsterdam. The duo sliced nearly 3sec off the leading time set by Dutch rider Willem Greve on Highway TN NOP to take top spot.

“I’ve been doing dry January, I do it every year, but Ariel Grange said ‘Go and have a few beers’,” Daniel said. “So I had three after last Sunday’s win and I think we might have a few more tonight!”

Daniel explained that commitment and determination have been the key to his success.

“My brother Jordan won everything on ponies and I didn’t win so much, or so it seemed!” he said. “In any sport I suppose you just get stuck in and get on with it or you get left behind and give up. Thankfully it went the right way for me in the end.

“It goes back to riding those ponies at home in Ireland where it’s very competitive. I rode with my brothers and everybody else, even the likes of Richard Howley, who now also has won a few World Cups. I was always chasing those guys. It’s good to see now I can have some revenge and I guess I also had some great horses in my career in the smaller divisions that have taught me how to do jump-offs. If being competitive in a jump-off is all I can give back to Legacy then I’m happy enough with that.”

Daniel has formed a unique partnership with Dolly, as Legacy is known at home, who has now earned a few weeks off in Florida before five-star League Of Nations duty.

“For years, we weren’t really on the same page,” he explained. “She’d jump one fence very high and the next fence I’d ask her to jump – like a plank or something delicate – she’d knock it down and I’d be very confused as to why. But I feel now we are very much on the same page; we have a real understanding.

“We have a huge year ahead with the World Cup Final and the Olympics – and for sure we’ll be looking at both with her – but we have to have a conversation about it all. The main thing is to get her to the Olympic Games like she is right now and try to win a medal! She’s in the prime of her life, she’s got better, she’s got older, and maybe so have I.”

Two qualifying rounds remain in the Western European League series, after which the top 18 riders in the standings will earn a ticket to the World Cup Final in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in April.

Also enjoying a successful time in Amsterdam, British rider Matt Sampson landed a winning double of five-star speed classes with his London International winner MGH Candy Girl.

• Jumping Amsterdam results

At the other end of the scale…

While Daniel Coyle is racking up multiple World Cup successes, amateur Mexican rider Jose Alberto Martinez Vazquez produced a career first World Cup qualifier riding Quinley in Puebla, Mexico.

“Quinley means everything to me. I’ve never had a horse like him before,” he said of the Holsteiner gelding he’s produced for 11 years from a four-year-old and with whom he represented Mexico at the 2022 World Championships. “Going to the last fence, you’re always thinking, ‘Is this enough?’ I had a bit of a miscommunication, but Quinley still went over it. I’m thankful.”

• CSI4*-W Puebla results

William Funnell leads UAE to first Nations Cup success, Great Britain third

Weeks after taking the helm as the new UAE chef d’equipe, William Funnell led the squad to a debut Nations Cup success at the CSIO4* Sharjah. Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi on Enjoy De La Mure, Abdullah Mohd Al Marri (BBS McGregor, formerly with Jack Ryan), Ali Hamad Al Kirbi with Jarlin De Torres and Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi (Chacolu) didn’t hit a fence throughout two rounds, accumulating just two discarded time-faults to win on a zero score from Germany with five penalties on the card.

Great Britain finished third on 24 faults, represented by Joe Stockdale (Ebanking), Donald Whitaker on Millfield Colette, Skye Higgin riding Djordania Du Tillard and Jack Whitaker on Equine America Q Paravatti N, with Ireland finishing fifth.

British chef d’equipe Di Lampard said: “To finish on the podium was incredibly pleasing. We had two good results with young horses Ebanking and Djordania, which is encouraging for these partnerships for the future. We need to improve marginally as a team as we look forward to the first Longines League of Nations competition in Abu Dhabi. There was a slight lack of consistency, but we are looking at all the positives of yesterday.”

• CSIO4* Sharjah results

More showjumping news: home-bred Grey Goose provides just the tonic

In more international showjumping news, Australian showjumper Rowan Willis flew to top spot of the CSI2* $100,000 Lugano Diamonds 1.45m grand prix on the Split Rock Jumping Tour at the TerraNova Equestrian Center in USA riding his home-bred mare Wellington Grey Goose (Corlensky x Grandira).

“Wellington Grey Goose is a real tryer and she’s fast,” said Rowan. ““I’ve done Split Rock shows ever since I came to America, and Derek Braun always puts on great shows. It’s really good for the competitors, has good prize money, and they have a fantastic facility here in Sarasota.”

• CSI2* Split Rock Jumping Tour results

$215,000 grand prix goes to Foster

Canadian showjumper Tiffany Foster won the Winter Equestrian Festival NetJets CSI4* grand prix riding Battlecry, a 10-year-old by Vigo D’Arsouilles x Latano, whom she owns with Artisan Farms and Kent Farrington.

“I’m really happy to finally check this one off,” said Tiffany, who was also awarded as the week’s leading international rider while Battlecry’s groom Kaytlyn Brown earned a $500 prize. “My horse has a bit of a right drift – just like every horse, he goes one way or the other – so, I thought the jump-off was actually going to suit him.”

Luciana Lossio took second for Brazil on Lady Louise Jmen, while the Nick Skelton-trained French rider Nina Mallevaey took third on Cartier SR.

“Nick told me I could have gone faster to the last, but I’m so happy with my horse,” said Nina. “He’s really trying to do everything for me. I’m going to try to have many more podiums like this.”

Great Britain’s Ben Maher took fourth on Faltic HB and Irish showjumper Cian O’Connor slotted into fifth on Maurice for owner Pat Crean.

• WEF results

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

With the Paris 2024 Olympics fast approaching, all eyes will be turning to who is performing well in international team competitions as riders vying for a place in the squad begin their Olympic build up – and where better to look for clues than the new-look Longines League of Nations?

Great Britain enjoyed a successful 2023 Nations Cup season, winning the home leg at Hickstead after a 13-year dry spell and finished the series with victory in the opening leg of the Longines FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona. The new CSIO5* Longines League of Nations season kicks off at the Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on 11 February and British chef d’equipe Di Lampard will lead a strong quartet for this top flight competition under its new format.

Joe Stockdale will be taking the reins on either 13-year-old mare Equine America Cacharel, who is owned by Joy Cocklin and Joe’s mother Laura Stockdale and recently returned to competition after several months on the sidelines, or the 10-year-old stallion Ebanking, who is jointly owned by Barbara Hester and Laura Stockdale.

Joe will be joined on the British squad by France-based Skye Higgin riding Bernadette Lejeune’s 11-year-old mare Djordania Du Tillard.

Completing the British side are cousins Jack Whitaker and Donald Whitaker. Jack is the youngest member of the British side at 22 and he has the choice of two horses – either his father Michael Whitaker’s 15-year-old Equine America Valmy De La Lande or the 12-year-old mare Equine America Q Paravatti N, who is owned by Michael and Graham Gillespie. Donald, 31, brings either 13-year-old stallion Di Caprio or 11-year-old mare Millfield Collette, both of whom he jointly owns with Reitsportanlage Dagobertshausen GMBH.

“We’ll work to showcase the horses and riders involved in the series and tell their stories to inspire others,” says Di Lampard as excitement builds towards the Longines League of Nations.

“The new team competition format will provide fresh opportunities to develop our athletes – both human and equine – against some of the best jumping nations in the world and I look forward to seeing what they can bring to the table.”

Longines League of Nations: “It will take riders out of their comfort zone”

Di Lampard took the helm as Great Britain’s first female performance manager in 2015, having previously competed herself at the highest level, including representing her country at world and European championships. She now focuses on team structure, management and coaching, working to continue Great Britain’s rich equestrian history “and the legacy it provides”.

“We have a proven system which we know works for the squads, but the new Longines League of Nations enhances the opportunity for younger and less experienced riders, and indeed horses, looking to gain international experience in a team setting,” she says. “They’ll have the chance to gain their air miles and learn about travelling further afield, alongside mixing with the very best riders in the world.”

According to Di, the new format is “creating a buzz” among the riders.

“It’ll create a bit of competition for selection for the teams, which is always healthy, and it will even take some of the riders out of their comfort zone,” she says, describing the series as “an achievable goal for riders” and “a vital stepping stone” towards championships.

“The series is inspiring and educational for those new to equestrianism, as well as those starting on their competitive journey,” she says, adding that the selection door “is always wide open”.

“The series is a great opportunity for many riders. For example it’s ideal for one-horse riders who are just making their way up the international pathway and competing at elite level.”

“The experienced riders help support the younger, less experienced ones”

The secret to Great Britain’s success, says Di, is the all-important team meal.

“There’s always a good sense of camaraderie, but getting the team spirit going with the riders is important,” she says. “It’s such a great learning environment with a mix of experiences, so that meal is important.

“The experienced riders help support the younger, less experienced ones, and educate them along the way. Team order is also important. Certain riders like to go in certain positions – it’s lucky for them – while we like to make the less experienced riders feel more comfortable in the order.”

Great Britain lines up as one of the world’s 10 top ranked nations competing for the Longines League of Nations curtain-raiser in Abu Dhabi, before the action moves to Ocala in USA, St Gallen in Switzerland, Rotterdam in the Netherlands with the final taking place for the series’ top eight teams in Barcelona in October.

Longines League Of Nations: top 10 teams line up

The teams are drawn according to their world ranking, with host side United Arab Emirates – who are not vying for qualification – leading the way in Abu Dhabi, followed by Brazil, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Switzerland, Germany, France, USA and finally Ireland have pole position.

The reigning Olympic, World and European champions Sweden are sending out Henrik von Eckermann, Wilma Hellström, Peder Fredricson and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, while Brazil fields former Portuguese team member Luciana Diniz, Marlon Zanotelli, Yuri Mansur and Luiz Felipe de Azevedo Filho.

Flying the Belgium flag are Gregory Wathelet, Koen Vereecke, Abdel Saïd and Wilm Vermeir with France sending Kevin Staut, Roger Yves Bost, Olivier Robert and Olivier Perreau.

The 2023 Nations Cup title holder Germany fields Christian Ahlmann, Jörne Sprehe, David Will and Christian Kukuk while representing Ireland are Michael Pender, Richard Howley, Mark McAuley and Denis Lynch.

Dutch fans will be cheering home Kim Emmen, Jur Vrieling, Loewie Joppen and Leopold van Asten, while the Swiss team consists of Janika Sprunger, Barbara Schnieper, Elian Baumann and Pius Schwizer.

Team USA will be represented by Alise Oken, Callie Schott, Hannah Selleck and Aaron Vale with hosts UAE, led by chef d’equipe William Funnell, fielding the quartet of Abdullah Mohd Al Marri, Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi, Abdullah Humaid Al Muhair and Ali Hamad Al Kirbi.

While the first round is run much like the traditional Nations Cup seen until last year – with the best three scores counting – only three riders from each of the top eight ranked nations after round one progress to round two under the new Longines League of Nations format, with every score then counting. If a jump-off is required to decide top honours after round two, just one rider from each team in contention will go against the clock.

There’s €700,000 in prize money to play for at each qualifier and €1,600,000 on offer at the Barcelona Final, so the stage is set for a very exciting year.

You may also like to read…

‘A brilliant way to finish’: meet the 21-year-old who jumped clear for Great Britain in Nations Cup Final

‘Horses are this sport’s most valuable asset – put their welfare first’: top coach’s advice to young riders

‘Fabulous opportunity’ as major deal secures future of Britain’s Nations Cup

Harry Charles enjoys ‘one of the best shows of my career’ and a treble clear helps Great Britain celebrate

John Whitaker: ‘Hickstead was one of the greatest weeks of my life’

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Swedish showjumping chef d’equipe Henrik Ankarcrona is one of the most respected coaches on the circuit, leading the nation’s riders to a host of accolades in recent years, including a hat-trick of gold medals which means they currently reign as Olympic, European and World Champions.

The squad heads into the year of the Paris Olympics as one of the favourites to secure what would be the country’s fifth Olympic gold medal. They continue to be respected for their dedication to the sport, ability to perform under pressure, superb horsemanship and unparalleled sportsmanship.

In this busy landmark year, the Swedish squad has also earned a coveted spot as one of the top 10 teams competing in the inaugural Longines League of Nations, which kicks off in Abu Dhabi next month. Sweden’s ultimate goal is, “As always, to win as much as possible with the best horse-rider combinations, presented in a good way to always put the horse first,” sums up Henrik of his country’s proud showjumping history.

Henrik Ankarcrona: “Nations Cup and championships are the pinnacle of our sport”

“For Swedish jumping, the FEI Nations Cup and championships have always been the pinnacle of our sport and what we believe is the very best way to get a good name as a jumping nation,” Henrik continues. “I believe that this new League will carry on that history.

“Obviously recent successes speak for the cohesion of our team and I believe that this confidence and our attention to detail are a legacy that will bring us further success in this new series.”

The Swedish fans are often among the most passionate and numerous in the crowd, particularly when it comes to team jumping competitions.

“I believe the new Longines League of Nations format will engage both media and spectators alike,” explains Henrik (pictured above) of the “unique” new series. “It makes it easier to follow and very exciting to see how it develops – and changes – from leg to leg towards the final. We are very proud to be one of the 10 teams to take part.

“For Sweden, this means a lot and I’m sure this will encourage a lot of young riders to set their goals high, set the bar high, and work hard towards achieving the experience needed to participate in this League.”

“Love your horse and put its welfare above all else”

Speaking of inspiring the next generation, Henrik has some clear advice for young riders bidding to make a name for themselves in the sport.

“If you are passionate about jumping and dream of being an international equestrian or championship rider, there are two elements – first, and most important, is to love your horse and put their welfare above all else,” he reveals.

“Secondly, you need to work very hard. You need a drive and you need to be open to learning. Listen and look at the top riders.

“But the most important one to listen to is your horse. Learn to read them and understand that they are the most valuable asset in our sport.”

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Daily turnout for horses compulsory by law: country leads the way on welfare

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‘Good to be back’: Olympic medallist makes winning return following injury

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The confirmation of a new title sponsor for the Royal International Horse Show and the Nations Cup of Great Britain has been welcomed as a “fabulous opportunity”.

Equine insurer Agria and Hickstead have signed a deal extending their partnership from this year, when Agria sponsored ring five and international classes, to become the overall sponsor of the meeting (23-28 July), and its featured competition.

H&H reported in the summer that Hickstead, and Britain, had not been included in the FEI’s relaunched Longines League of Nations. This deal means that for the 50th time, a British team will compete against other nations in the historic Nations Cup at the West Sussex showground, with a €200,000 prize fund.

“We are enormously grateful to Agria for increasing their support of Hickstead,” said Hickstead director Lizzie Bunn. “Their contribution towards safeguarding the future of equestrian sport in this country cannot be underestimated. It is important for us to partner with sponsors who share our values, particularly in respect of horse welfare in top class sport.

“The past few months have been a period of great change, but it also presents a fabulous new opportunity for us. Agria coming on board as sponsor of the Nations Cup means we can now guarantee this hugely popular and iconic class will remain at Hickstead. It gives us much more freedom and flexibility, allowing us to take the class in the direction we and our international riders want, following the example of other fantastic independent Nations Cups in venues such as Spruce Meadows and Aachen.”

Agria UK CEO Vicki Wentworth added: “Agria is thrilled to become title sponsor of this historic show as we continue to spread the word about our game-changing lifetime insurance which has already made such an impact in Britain. Agria’s roots are in Sweden, a nation which is mad about showjumping, and it’s exciting to be so highly involved with the sport in Britain now too.”

British chef d’equipe Di Lampard welcomed the news as “fantastic”, adding that it is very important for British showjumping to have a home Nations Cup.

Ben Maher, who was on the British team that won the home leg this year, added: “The Nations Cup is a very important competition, and growing up it was one of those classes that I always dreamt of being able to take part in. There’s a lot of history surrounding the Royal International and the Nations Cup as a whole, so for Agria to be able to step in and secure the future of this event is great news for Hickstead, showjumping, and us as a country.”

You might also be interested in:

Huge disappointment as Hickstead – and Britain — miss out in Nations Cup revamp

‘The best day’: an emotional John Whitaker helps Great Britain triumph in Hickstead Nations Cup

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

What a bumper selection of showjumping news we have to bring you this week! From Harry Charles coming oh, so close to winning just about everything at the Stuttgart German Masters, to the dazzling spectacle of the Global Champions Playoffs in Prague, a World Cup jackpot in Las Vegas and an outstanding British Nations Cup success, we didn’t know where to look – it was a weekend packed full of epic sport.

Want to find out who won what and where? Then read on for this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: ‘One of the best shows of my career’

British showjumping star Harry Charles enjoyed a winning double, narrowly missing out on an outstanding four-timer, at the CSI5* Stuttgart German Masters. With the speedy Billabong Du Roumois, the 24-year-old finished second in the opening speed class, following up with a convincing 1.55m victory the next day. Later that night, he triumphed with Ann Thompson’s Aralyn Blue in the 1.55m Stuttgart German Master, sealing the week with a runner-up spot on Casquo Blue in Sunday’s Longines FEI World Cup qualifier behind Kevin Staut (Beau De Laubry Z).

“This has been one of the best shows of my career and it’s one of those weeks that doesn’t happen very often in this sport,” said Harry, who finished just 0.14sec slower than his French rival in the World Cup. “I didn’t quite think I could catch Kevin – Casquo isn’t the fastest horse – but when you have a crowd like this behind you, you give it everything and my horse gave it everything as well. It was so close, but it feels like a win anyway!

“It’s amazing what Casquo can do with his body, how athletic he is, and today he had a bit of speed in him as well,” added Harry, crediting the brilliant team around him for “letting me have weekends like this”.

“On Friday, to become the German Master was a pretty cool title. I would have loved to have won the World Cup, too, but maybe I’ll come back next year and try again!”

• Stuttgart German Masters results

A dazzling win for super Epaillard and a round of ‘pure joy’ for von Eckermann

Amid pyrotechnics, lights and big-stadium atmosphere at the Global Champions Playoffs in Prague, Czechia, Julien Epaillard was the star of the show in Saturday night’s €1.26m Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) Super Grand Prix, for which riders qualified at each of the season’s grands prix. Two technical rounds of jumping set by Uliano Vezzani resulted in no double clears so the flying Frenchman won with chestnut mare Dubai Du Cedre as the quickest four-faulter, just tapping out fence three in a nail-biting second round.

“I had my plan and I was disappointed with the fault,” said Julien. “I saw Henrik von Eckermann’s round on King Edward and my mare is very different – she has a smaller stride – so I couldn’t do the same plan as him. I still had a lot of delicate fences to jump and two good riders following me, so I felt the pressure.

“I don’t have all the comfort with her, she’s a bit special,” he said of the Baloubet Du Rouet x Diamant De Semilly mare. “But she has a lot of blood and she uses that to jump – sometimes with me, sometimes not!

“This is one of my biggest victories, so I’ll enjoy it.”

Former Super Grand Prix winner Henrik von Eckermann’s second-round clear with King Edward lifted them from seventh to second ahead of third-placed Max Kuhner (Up Too Jacco Blue), but the world number one was disappointed. But he described every round with his brilliant partner King Edward as “pure joy”.

“Every time I go in the ring with him, I try my best because we can only do so many shows,” he said. “So even if I’m second today, a round like that is pure joy, because of the feeling he gives me.”

There were no British riders in contention for this year’s Super Grand Prix, but Ireland’s Bertram Allen and Pacino Amiro soared up to fourth with a superb second-round clear. The top three grooms, Caroline Belouet, Louise Barraud, and Mariella Offner, were also awarded in the prize-giving.

Jodie Hall McAteer and her great mare Hardessa flew the British flag in Saturday’s 1.50m jump-off class, finishing second to Frank Schuttert (Isis), while Sophie Evans (Florida Van Maarle) won a CSI2* speed class.

• GC Playoffs results

Showjumping news: Nations Cup glory for Great Britain

In other showjumping news, British rider Mark Edwards continued his excellent run of overseas form by winning the CSI2* grand prix in the Villamoura Champions Tour, Portugal, with Royale Tale. The Welsh rider then became the hero of the Great Britain team when jumping a triple clear on Marlene Edwards’ Flying Tinker II, including a thrilling jump-off performance versus Belgium and USA, to take them to the top of the podium in Sunday’s CSIO3* Nations Cup.

Mark was joined on the podium by Olli Fletcher (Hello William), Adrian Whiteway on Chacco Volo and James Smith riding Tayvale Hunky Dory, and Mark credited “great team spirit all week”.

“I knew what was needed to win and Flying Tinker came out in the jump-off like the little superstar he is,” said Mark, who beat the Belgian challenge by nearly 2sec. “Today’s win makes it all the more special, jumping treble clear on a home-bred.”

• Villamoura Champions Tour results

One million less in prize money: ‘the pressure was immense’

The 2023 Global Champions League (GCL) season champions Riesenbeck International followed up with victory in Sunday’s €6.5m GCL Super Cup Final. They were represented in this epic season finale by GCL rider of the year, Christian Kukuk (Checker 47), Eoin McMahon (Mila) and Philipp Weishaupt (Zineday), the latter two securing crucial double clears for the squad. Valkenswaard United agonisingly took second for successive years, with a double clear from Marcus Ehning on Stargold, and just four faults apiece for Great Britain’s John Whitaker (Equine America Unick Du Francport) and Gilles Thomas (Luna Van Het Dennehof).

“One rail down and it was one million less in prize money – the pressure was immense,” said Philipp, the final rider in for Ludger Beerbaum’s GCL team, who threw his hat in delight at securing victory with that vital clear. “As I crossed the line, it all just came out of me – can you imagine you are last in the ring and it’s all in your hands and you deliver it? It’s an amazing feeling and the reason we do the sport.”

• GC Super Cup Final results

British rider speeds up her husband’s horse! ‘She’s been a hero’

British showjumper Louise Simpson (Cindy R) won the 1.50m CSI3* grand prix at the Autumn MET II in Oliva Nova, Spain, with Cindy R, a mare previously ridden by her husband David Simpson.

“Cindy R is not the fastest horse and I have only been riding her a few months, so I don’t know her inside out,” said Louise of the Clarimo x Quidam De Revel 11-year-old, bred by Dietmar Rohling, and who was used as a broodmare until three years ago. “She does have a big stride, but I did not think I would be anywhere near fast enough to win!”

Louise and the chestnut mare triumphed after a 10-way jump-off.

“When there were quite a few clears, I thought ‘Oh God’ – I did not think it was going to be easy,” said Louise.

“We have had her for about a year. She is a huge mare and on paper you would definitely say she’s a guy’s horse. My husband David has been riding her for most of the year, but actually ignoring her size, she is so sweet and easy that I kind of stole her three or four months ago and she’s been a hero.

“The plan was to put me on her to speed her up, so I feel like I’ve done that now.”

• Autumn MET results

Showjumping news: Viva Swail in Las Vegas

Irishman Conor Swail hit the World Cup jackpot when winning his first qualifier of the season in Las Vegas riding his great partner, 16-year-old Count Me In. The pair topped a six-way jump-off to take victory after an “up-and-down year” for the gelding.

“I’m lucky that ‘Crosby’ is very quick,” said Conor. “Regardless, he is very careful. We went through a little period where he wasn’t comfortable jumping the bigger fences, so we took a step back. Tonight he felt as good as ever, so I’m really delighted.

“The horse owes me nothing. I think he’s the best horse I’ve ever ridden. He brought me to the World Cup Final, I won at Dublin, he’s brought me incredible days and basically brought me to the top 10 in the world.”

Conor beat his student Vanessa Mannix of Canada riding Lehar into second, but said they remain very good friends.

“Vanessa has been riding great for a number of years now,” he said. “She’s got a nice string of horses at the moment, and it’s fantastic to see her on the podium as well.”

• Las Vegas National results

‘It’s just me and my wife doing the grooming’

And finally in this week’s showjumping news round-up, we were impressed with the story behind Irishman Dylan Daly securing victory at the Wellington International Annual Series in Florida. The 26-year-old grabbed the headlines in the CSI3* Flagler Insurance grand prix riding Cinderella Z and there is no expansive team to thank for this enterprising young rider.

“At the moment, it’s just me and my wife doing the grooming ourselves,” said Dylan. “The main thing for me is to spend time with the horse and really build up that team partnership.”

Picture of the week: What an angle!

We couldn’t finish this week’s showjumping news round-up without mentioning this fantastic image captured by Cassidy Klein of the athletic duo of Brazil’s Luiza Leivas and Novak De Kalvarie. This flying combination took the shortest route of all to win the national grand prix at Wellington International after a five-way jump-off. What a horse!

You may also like to read…

‘Beyond my wildest dreams’: British university student lines up alongside Harry Charles and Ben Maher for World Cup debut

‘She’s the boss, I’m the passenger!’: Ben Maher lifts a World Cup and Vermento resumes his winning ways

‘We are part of the family, not just a groom’: behind the scenes with Harry Charles’ groom Georgia Ellwood

A long-awaited win and an incredible comeback in the battle for Olympic qualification

A ‘difficult’ young horse is transformed, a gentle giant wins and there’s a big milestone in a champion’s career

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

British five-star showjumper Jodie Hall McAteer on competition format and an epic week at the “pinnacle of the year”

Over the past three years, the places I have travelled to thanks to this profession are unbelievable. My horses have more stamps in their passports than most people get in a lifetime!

But I’ve missed out on the action at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in recent years, so I couldn’t wait to be back doing what I love in front of a home crowd. It’s the pinnacle of the year for so many British showjumpers, and I truly hope that the national talent being showcased is one thing that never has to change.

If you’d asked me last week whether I’d have stood a chance of winning the grand prix with Hardessa, I’d have told you no. I wasn’t sure if we’d even be in it, we were just taking things day by day. But winning the leading showjumper of the year on the final day was one of my most special achievements to date because it was just so completely unexpected.

Camaraderie and excitement

The recent Nations Cup Final in Barcelona was incredible. Its beauty was in its simplicity: 40 riders in the final so it didn’t drag on, camaraderie, horsemanship and excitement to the end.

While Nations Cups are not championships, their history, prestige and the honour of donning your country’s jacket make them the closest thing to one. I’ll be interested to see if the series retains the same grandeur next year when it’s cut down to five events and rebranded the League of Nations.

A few years ago, I attended the International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) general assembly in Geneva. I expressed my concern that having only three riders at future Olympics and no drop score not only has consequences for horse welfare, but it also limits any opportunities for younger riders to break through.

I was in Barcelona last year and jumped on Nations Cup teams this year in La Baule and Rome. Di Lampard has always been good at giving the next generation the opportunity to step up, but with just three riders on a team, selection will prioritise those with more experience. It’s a real barrier in this sport, where riders have such long careers.

No chance to bounce back

There are other ways in which format changes could take away younger riders’ ability to prove themselves. In the League of Nations, four riders will contest round one, with one drop score, and three riders, with all scores counting, return for the second leg.

In Barcelona, Lily Attwood posted the only clear for Britain in the final round, having had 12 faults in the opening leg. Had the new format already been in place, Lily may never have had the chance to bounce back, improve on her performance and show what she’s made of.

Showjumping’s growth is undeniable, with the emergence of so many different series. But, with so many shows on the calendar, how can organisers maintain prestige and encourage people to experience the action first-hand? I wonder how it will be possible to get the wider public interested in the sport when even as a rider I often struggle to follow what is going on.

From three-round grands prix to two-phase specials and accumulators, the list is endless. It’s no wonder crowds at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and London are most enthusiastic for the puissance; the rule is simple, whoever jumps highest wins!

While I do not have all the solutions, there is definitely scope to streamline the sport, communicate the rules more effectively and entice crowds. Or perhaps I am intransigent to the inevitable evolution of showjumping.

● What does the sport need to do to rejuvenate public interest? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your views published in a future edition of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 12 October, 2023

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

‘A brilliant way to finish’: meet the 21-year-old who jumped clear for Great Britain in Nations Cup Final

Praise for attitude of rider who fell at HOYS – who lost half her bodyweight to get there

‘I’ve paid my bills!’ Young Brit’s long trip home pays off with super grand prix win

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

One of the heroes of Great Britain’s showjumping squad in action at the Longines FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona, Spain, (28 September-1 October) was 21-year-old Lily Attwood and her 13-year-old gelding Cor-Leon VD Vlierbeek Z.

The pair bounced back from a 12-fault performance in Thursday’s opening leg, which Great Britain won, to jump one of only nine clears over Santiago Varela’s imposing track in Sunday’s final.

Great Britain finished seventh to victors Germany in the end, but Lily was “thrilled” with her result and Cor-Leon, who is looked after by Niki Javorkova, received plenty of appreciative pats from his rider after the finish line.

“It’s great for my horse – we haven’t had the easiest year, so to finish like that was brilliant,” said Lily, who now trains in Belgium with Great Britain’s team technical expert and triple Olympian Stanny van Paesschen.

“Cor-Leon had a couple of relapses of his colic, just mild symptoms, but he’s feeling better than ever now.

“He jumped really well on Thursday, he felt super. I just made a mistake to the oxer and the other mistakes followed as a result [for 12 faults down the final line]. So I didn’t change anything between then and Sunday because he felt fantastic. I just made sure I rode better!

“Nations Cup-wise, I’ve only done Barcelona last year and this year, so I’m thrown in the deep end! But to have a clear round is great for the whole team.”

Lily Attwood: from pony teams to Nations Cup Final

Lily is a former medalist for Great Britain while riding ponies and she made a rapid ascent into the top tier of the sport under the expert tutelage of Guy Williams. She contested her first five-star show at the age of just 19 and has landed plenty of big classes since. This was her second time representing Great Britain in the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona.

Lily has ridden her mother Emmy’s Belgian-bred Cor-Leon VD Vlierbeek Z (Calvaro FC x Omar) for four years, but the super gelding underwent major colic surgery a year ago. The pair returned to win their first five-star class this year, but careful management is now required after he suffered some mild relapses.

“He has a very complex diet now – everything is weighed to the gram,” said Lily. “He gets fed throughout the day, spread out in small batches, and we’ve removed the starch completely. But he’s genuinely never felt better in the four years I’ve had him. He seems to be building muscle more easily, he’s fresher and happier for it. But he’s definitely high-maintenance!”

Lily began training with Stanny at the start of the year, moving to his Belgium base in April, and credits him for being “a great trainer”. Chef d’equipe Di Lampard was full of praise for the youngest member of the British squad competing in the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona.

“She’s very capable. It’s all coming together for her,” she said.

Lily’s string of horses are all en route to Vilamoura, Portugal, now for the start of the autumn tours but Cor-Leon will be having a well-deserved rest for the coming weeks.

“If we can get into the London International Horse Show we’ll bring him back for that, then he’ll be quiet again at the start of next year, hopefully coming back ready for some more Nations Cups,” said Lily.

“Fingers crossed 2024 is going to be a good year.”

You may also like to read…

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Three-man Aussie team – with Olympic eventer on side – beat the odds to be hailed Nations Cup Final heroes in Dutch conquest

‘One of the best rounds of the year’: Great Britain wins Nations Cup Final opening leg

Horse recovers from colic surgery to win first 5* for young British rider at Royal Windsor

Festive stars: Lily Attwood: ‘I decided that winning big classes was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life’

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

While Great Britain’s tremendous winning form from round one couldn’t transcend to Sunday’s Longines FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona, Spain (1 October), there was still plenty of reason to celebrate in a tough competition between the top eight teams.

It was instead Team Germany’s turn to triumph – but there were a few heart-stopping moments en route for the quartet in a sizzling afternoon in Barcelona.

An eight-fault opening round over Santiago Varela’s testing track from Jana Wargers (Dorette) certainly had the team sweating and anchorman Richard Vogel was almost jumped out of the saddle by an over-exuberant leap by United Touch S at fence one. But, with Christian Kukuk (Checker 47) and Hans-Dieter Dreher (Elysium) having already posted clears and Richard surviving unscathed, the quartet won the title for the first time since 2016 on a zero score.

Chef d’equipe Otto Becker said: “These guys deserve the win. I’m a lucky guy to be part of this team. We had two down, I got a bit worried, but what they did is unbelievable.”

Jana described it as the “perfect win” and Hansi agreed it had been a “good week” while Christian said the pressure had benefited him.

“I need that a bit,” he said. “I came here with a good feeling – I knew we had a really strong team because all five of us have had great seasons. I was disappointed to have one down on Thursday so I wanted to do better today.”

Nations Cup Final: ‘This course is giving me a headache – take an aspirin!’

Christian only took the ride back on Checker (Comme Il Faut x Come On), who is owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and looked after by Sofie Karlsson, when his boss Ludger Beerbaum retired earlier this year.

“He’s in great shape – I would have liked a double clear so i’m disappointed with that, but I’d be nothing without my team-mates,” said Christian. “We had a lot of fun this week and that’s really important for the team spirit.”

Richard was not required to jump on Thursday to secure the team’s third place and qualification as one of the top eight for Sunday’s final, which benefited the 11-year-old Untouched stallion, who is looked after by Felicia Wallin.

“He was very fresh,” he said. “I was hoping I could do something for the team because up to today I felt like a spectator, so I’m glad I delivered. When I saw the course it gave me a headache because the combinations are difficult for my horse – he has such a big stride. I can take out strides down lines with him but not in combinations! I told Otto that a course with two doubles and a treble was giving me a headache. Otto said take aspirin!

“He almost jumped me off at fence one – he likes to do a spectacular jump but maybe he was a bit rusty. He has pure energy, he’s so strong with so much scope.”

Olympic qualification for Brazil from Nations Cup Final

France, defending champions Belgium, and Brazil finished on eight faults in second, third and fourth respectively according to accumulated time.

The celebrations began for Brazil who secured the single qualifying spot on offer for the Paris 2024 Olympics after a tense battle with USA. Agonisingly for USA, there was only a time-fault separating the two nations.

Switzerland, who have yet to win the title, took sixth, with Great Britain and Ireland filling the bottom two placings on 12 and 13 faults respectively.

Great Britain’s hero of the day was 21-year-old Lily Attwood, who jumped the team’s sole clear on Cor-Leon VD Vlierbeek Z, owned by Emmy Freeman-Attwood and looked after by Niki Javorkova. The 13-year-old gelding has had a quieter year after suffering some mild colic relapses, so Lily was “thrilled” with his return and the gelding received huge pats of appreciation from his rider.

“We haven’t had the easiest year so to finish like that was brilliant,” she said.

Harry Charles and Aralyn Blue, who is owned by Ann Thompson and looked after by Georgia Ellwood, came home with four faults, just missing out on a share of the €100,000 double clear bonus, which was split three ways.

Robert Whitaker riding Caroline Blatchford’s King George hero Vermento, who is looked after by Louisa Taylor, and Tim Gredley with Unex Competition Yard’s Medoc De Toxandria, whose groom is Paul Drew, each had two fences down, Tim with a time-fault.

“We all had a good result on Thursday. But having got ourselves in that position, today was always going to be difficult – Lily rode fantastic today though,” reflected Robert. “My horse just showed a couple of little mistakes but this Nations Cup Final is a completely different level for him and he’s coped with it well. I think he’s got a great chance for next year.

“So on the whole, we’ll come away from here thinking there’s a lot to look forward to next year for the Nations Cups.”

‘I’ve really enjoyed this year and I’m so looking forward to next year’: Di Lampard

Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Di Lampard said she “couldn’t have been more proud of the team on the first day – to do it in the style they did”.

“Every one of them put in their clear rounds this week,” she said. “Sunday was a proper course – 18 jumping efforts, but exactly what you expect in Barcelona.

“Lily was a bit rusty at the level on day one, because she hasn’t been competing all summer. One little error on the first day caused a domino effect down the last line. It was absolutely heartbreaking. But to come back and notch up that clear round on Sunday was fantastic. But also no surprise, she’s very capable. It’s all coming together for her.

“With Robert and Vermento we are building another partnership to look forward to next year – Vermento is very inexperienced at this level, but really exciting for next year.

“Harry is a solid member of our team and has been with us all year – it’s amazing how many appearances he’s had this year, how many clear rounds on different horses,” said Di. “He’s backed us 100%.

“Tim is improving all the time, it’s a very different sport to what he was competing in before. He’s had a terrific year.

“So it’s very exciting for next year,” said Di, when the new format Nations Cup comes into play, along with the Paris Olympics to look forward to.

“This year we’ve been short of a couple of partnerships who were good for us last year, so when we get everyone back it’ll be fantastic. It’s such a lovely squad of riders that we’ve used and integrated this year. There’s been a real mix of youth, in both horses and riders, to of course the living legend John Whitaker, who is in and out of the squad when needed. I’ve really enjoyed this year and I’m so looking forward to next year.”

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Great Britain has won the opening round of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final in Barcelona, Spain, and the team now goes through to Sunday’s (1 October) eight-way decider in pole position.

The squad have clearly bounced back from a disappointing European Showjumping Championships in Milan and they were the only nation from the 15 starters to complete on a zero score on Thursday afternoon (28 September). First-round clears came from pathfinder Tim Gredley with his championship partner Medoc De Toxandria, Robert Whitaker on his King George hero Vermento, and anchorman Harry Charles riding Ann Thompson’s 12-year-old Aralyn Blue, who is looked after by Georgia Ellwood. Lily Attwood’s 12-fault round with Cor-Leon VD Vlierbeek Z was the day’s drop score, but chef d’equipe Di Lampard said she was “absolutely delighted with all four of them”.

“It’s shown progression from Milan – the two riders [Tim and Harry] have come out much more confident and delivered,” she said on day one of the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona.

“We’re getting the girls in the mix too!” she added, including fifth team rider Sienna Charles, younger sister of Harry. “Harry is masterly in anchorman position – a bit didn’t go his way in Milan, but hasn’t he bounced back? That was a near-perfect round.”

‘It’s an honour to be picked for the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona’

Tim Gredley was full of praise for his 11-year-old Medoc De Toxandria, who is looked after by groom Paul Drew. The duo with were part of the victorious Nations Cup team at Hickstead, as well as the European Showjumping Championships team last month.

“When he’s jumping like that, it’s really, really enjoyable,” said Tim. “He’s so careful and he has so much scope – he makes my job much easier.“That was probably one of the best rounds of the year. It’s all about Nations Cups and representing my country – I really enjoy the format and all the pressure that comes with it. He’s obviously jumped a lot this year and he’s been picked for the final, which is a big honour, so I’m just glad I could pull a clear out of the bag.”

Thursday’s victory puts Great Britain in a coveted final draw of the eight teams who will jump again on Sunday. Joining them in the concluding round of the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final in Barcelona will be Brazil, Germany and Switzerland, who all finished on a team score of four.

Title-holders Belgium and USA will also be in the mix after their eight-fault tallies in Thursday’s opening round, while 12-faulters Ireland, France and Mexico had to be split by time, meaning Ireland and France were celebrating, while Mexico will instead head to Saturday night’s Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final Challenge Cup for the seven lower ranked nations.

They will be joined by the Netherlands, who had an uncharacteristically high-scoring day, hosts Spain, Italy, Australia, Argentina and Uzbekistan.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

We had a bumper weekend of international showjumping news and results from around the world this week. As Irish showjumper Shane Sweetnam said after helping his country win team silver at the European Showjumping Championships this month when reflecting on Ireland’s success at the recent European youth championships, “The future looks good for us. World domination isn’t too far away!”

This was underlined at this week’s Nations Cup Youth Final in Belgium where Ireland added yet another gold to their growing medal haul and Great Britain added to their collection, too.

Talking of world domination, world champions King Edward and the world number one Henrik von Eckermann were back doing what they do best, this time claiming victory in a sweltering Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix of Rome.

Read on for this week’s round-up of international showjumping news and results.

Showjumping news: Team gold for Ireland’s pony riders

At the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final at Sentower Park, Opglabbeek, Belgium, Ireland’s pony team won team gold, with Belgium taking silver and Great Britain bronze. Kian Dore (Sparkling Lackaghmore Joey), Emily Moloney with Lady Crown, Paddy Reape on Fernando and James Derwin (Rincoola Babog) won on a score of four, thanks to a hat-trick of final clears when the team was down to all three scores needing to count.

“There’s no secret, success breeds success,” said Irish chef d’equipe Gary Marshall, adding of the committed investment to training in ponies: “We have a team system at home.”

The British quartet of Izabella Rogers (Neil 55), Georgia Cooper-Hall on Saxton Freedam, Katie Bradburne riding Ardough Boy and Madison Seedhouse (Vaughann De Vuzit) claimed bronze with a team score of 12.

“We were a little unlucky in both rounds with silly four faults adding up but I was pleased with them, Katie was very good on her first trip away,” said chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker.

Ireland’s juniors also won silver (pictured above), where the Netherlands brought home gold after a tense jump-off. This time Eoin Brennan (Eskola M), Stephen Gibbons (Cassius Z), James Brennan (MHS I’m The One) and Coen Williams (Conthanja) flew the Irish flag. They were joined on the podium by bronze medal-winning USA.

The young rider gold went to Sweden, topping Denmark and Belgium on the podium, while the Netherlands brought home gold for the juniors; the Dutch claimed another victory in the children’s competition, with Belgium in silver and Italy in bronze.

Why a tack change backfired for the world number one

In Italy, Swedish world number one Henrik von Eckermann and the world-conquering King Edward triumphed in spectacular style in the €440,000 Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix of Rome for the second year running. Against the backdrop of the historic ruins of the Circus Maximus, this incredible duo took top spot ahead of David Will riding My Prins Van Dorperheide, with two riders sharing the third step on the podium – Peder Fredricson (Catch Me Not S) and Andreas Schou (I Know), who both stopped the jump-off clock in 42.27sec.

Many will remember King Edward’s uncharacteristically lacklustre performances at the LGCT of London and Henrik believes a tack change may have backfired.

“I had two shows that were not that great with King Edward,” explained Henrik. “I lost a bit of the feeling and there were a couple of things, like I changed to a hackamore, and I just had the feeling that something is not really like it should be. I was almost getting a bit crazy because you know how it should feel, but you don’t really ‘get it’.”

Henrik expressed his delight at getting ‘that’ feeling back in Rome.

“Of course, winning is amazing, but that feeling you get when you are back and the horse is with you 100%, that team is back… that is everything,” he said.

As both Henrik and runner-up David had already claimed their golden tickets to the LGCT Super Grand Prix at the GC Prague Playoffs, the slot was bestowed on both Peder and Andreas, which Peder, who has recently returned from a neck injury, said he “certainly didn’t see that one coming”.

“I was very happy about that!” he said.

Tabitha Kyle makes showjumping news with a double of grands prix

Also at the FEI Nations Cup Youth Final in Belgium, 16-year-old Tabitha Kyle won a total of six classes, including the pony grand prix riding Atomic Du Bary, where she also finished third on Gangnam Style II, separated by Ireland’s Senan Reape on Catness 8. She also claimed top spot in the junior grand prix on another owned by TJ Hall, the 15-year-old mare Desterly.

“I couldn’t ask for more, I’m very happy,” said Tabitha, who was joined on the winner’s sheet by team-mate Jennifer Billington and the six-year-old Sualire Z racing to victory in the 1.30m grand prix, Noora von Bulow, who won an under-25 double with Interstar B and Lucky Lisa, where Phoebe Farman and Diara Sue slotted into second place, and multi-winning Izabella Rogers in the pony classes where Ruby Payne also secured a two-phase on Calimero.

Showjumping news: ‘I had a good feeling all weekend’

German showjumper Christian Kukuk and Checker 47 (main image, top) triumphed in the 1.50m speed class at the LGCT Rome, just ahead of in-form Peder Fredricson riding Hansson WL.

“I had a good feeling all weekend but have been a little bit unlucky,” said Christian. “In this class I knew that the oxer of Lugano Diamonds had plenty of risk as the rail fell for a few riders, but I took the risk and it really paid off.”

European champion rolls on to grand prix glory

Just two weeks after claiming the European championship crown, gold medallist Steve Guerdat won the CSI3* grand prix at Samorin, Slovakia, riding Double Jeu D’Honvault as the fastest of four double clears.

Whitakers go close in Saint Tropez

Our showjumping news round-up wouldn’t be complete without a mention for the Whitaker family. The CSI3* 1.55m grand prix at Hubside Jumping, Saint Tropez, was won by Dutch rider Johnny Pals on Zarkava Hero Z with Great Britain’s Jack Whitaker chasing him home for the runner-up spot on the family’s great campaigner Equine America Valmy De La Lande. Jack’s cousin Donald Whitaker finished third in the two-star equivalent riding Ulania 3.

Gredley back in form

Also in showjumping news this week, Great Britain’s Tim Gredley jumped the really promising 10-year-old Imperial HBF to a third-place finish in the CSI2* grand prix at Bonheiden, Belgium, also finishing in the money in the young horse classes with Tres Bien Z.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Visiting cowboy saloons, trading a trophy for a trip to Hawaii, and becoming a three-time Spruce Meadows grand prix winner – the top Canadian venue holds many fond memories for British showjumping legend John Whitaker.

H&H caught up with John, who turned 68 last month, on site in Calgary during his long-awaited return to the prestigious Masters tournament (6-10 September) for a trip down memory lane.

John first started competing at Spruce Meadows in 1980, and enjoyed success with his Olympic team silver medal-winning Ryan’s Son. But it was John’s 1986 Spruce Meadows’ appearance that remains a significant moment in showjumping history, when he won the grand prix for the first time, with the grey superstar Milton.

“It was brilliant to win. I’d been in previous years with Ryan’s Son and we’d done quite well, so to then come and win it was a special one. It always makes the flight home very nice,” says John.

John went on to win the grand prix twice more; in 1992 on Henderson Gammon and in 1994 with Everest Grannusch. To date only former Olympic champion Nick Skelton has bettered this record, winning four times; in 1985 with Everest St James, 1993 with Everest Dollar Girl, 1998 on Virtual Village Hopes Are High, and 2008 with Arko III.

Six-time Olympian John has also enjoyed much team success at Spruce Meadows, helping Britain to victory in the Nations Cup event on seven occasions – including four on the trot from 1989 to 1992 alongside his brother Michael, and Nick Skelton. But it was 1980 that perhaps delivered the best spoils, when some negotiating from the late British showjumping team manager Ronnie Massarella resulted in a spontaneous holiday for the team.

“We weren’t allowed to take the trophy home because it stays at Spruce Meadows,” explains John. “So when Britain won it for a third time in a row, Ronnie was trying to get something out of it because we couldn’t keep the trophy, so a holiday in Hawaii got suggested. When we won, Ron Southern [Spruce Meadows founder] stood by it and gave us the holiday. It was much better than the trophy!”

A “game-changer” for showjumping

Looking back, John believes Spruce Meadows was a “game-changer” for showjumping, owing to the generous prize money it put on the table. Today the CPKC International grand prix prize pot is one of the richest in the world at $3m (£1.762m).

“The other shows had to up their game prize money-wise, so it changed the sport. It was fantastic in those days to get prize money like that,” he explains, adding that the unique Calgary weather also added some surprises to the mix.

“A couple of times in the morning you’d be walking the course and there would be snow on the ground. One year I remember they cleared the ring with hand shovels, because they didn’t want to damage the ground with machines.”

John adds that Spruce Meadows hasn’t rested on its laurels and continues to develop its world-renowned facilities.

“The place is incredible,” he says. “They keep improving it and making it bigger and better, which seems impossible – but they keep doing it.

“Until this year, I hadn’t been for at least 10 years. And I missed it the years I didn’t come. It’s the way they do things here, the way they look after the crowds and get them in. It’s always a good atmosphere here.”

Recalling more Spruce Meadows history, John says in the early years much work went into promoting the event – and a special after-hours haunt, renowned for its line-dancing, remains a place for riders to visit for some downtime.

“The first time I went to Spruce Meadows they had all the teams dressed in their riding gear in wagons driving us around Calgary promoting the show. They also used to put free buses on from Calgary for spectators, so they really promoted it well and got people coming. And now it’s known throughout the world,” he says.

“It’s definitely one of the standout shows – the prize money, the atmosphere, the place, the organisation. They make it very easy for us to want to come here.

“We’ve had plenty of fun times. We used to always stop at Ranchman’s on the way home, it’s a real cowboy saloon. We haven’t been yet this trip, but I think we have to for old times’ sake. We used to call in nearly every night when we were younger. There was no line dancing for us though – just sampling the beer!”

“It’s good to be back”, says John Whitaker

This year marked John’s return to Spruce Meadows for the first time in more than 15 years – and the British team’s since 2016. The squad of Sameh El Dahan and WKD Toronto, Ben Maher and Exit Remo, Matt Sampson and Equine America Ivanhoe GPH, and John with Equine America Unick Du Francport, hoped to replicate Great Britain’s past success in the Nations Cup event. Another Brit in action at the Masters tournament was Rolex grand slam winner Scott Brash and his World Championships team bronze medal-winning ride and Paris 2024 hopeful Hello Jefferson.

“It’s good to be back, and with the team,” says John. “They’re all good [shows] to win, but this is especially a good one. It’s a good place for Matt, he does well here, Ben’s on flying form, Sameh’s been doing well, and I’ve been doing well.”

Although the Brits didn’t pull off the win, they could hold their heads high finishing fourth, in what was an action-packed and drama-filled Nations Cup competition at Spruce Meadows. The win ultimately went to Ireland, the country’s first Nations Cup victory here since 2001.

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Team Ireland’s sensational season has continued as they became winners of the Spruce Meadows’ BMO Nations Cup for the first time since 2001.

“The pride to win a Nations Cup is insurmountable to me. It’s the drug that I get out of doing this job,” said Irish chef d’equipe Michael Blake.

It was a turbulent opening for many of the seven teams in the Spruce Meadows’ international arena on Saturday afternoon (9 September), with falls from three different nations – and the surprise loss of defending champions Sweden, who produced the lowest score and failed to make it to the second round.

Ireland came into round two on just one time-penalty, but a man down, after Conor Swail and Calciet EB Z fell at the water. Behind them was Canada on four-faults, with Mario Deslauriers and Emerson having a fence, and Erynn Ballard and Gakhir, Amy Millar and Truman, and Tiffany Foster and Figor, posting superb clear rounds, to the delight of the jubilant home crowd.

In the second round Daniel Coyle produced a convincing clear with the reliable 13-year-old mare Legacy to keep Irish hopes firmly alive, while Denis Lynch added four-faults to the tally when 14-year-old gelding Brooklyn Heights knocked the front bar of the square Rolex oxer three from home. However, Germany was soon knocking at the door with solid fault-free rounds from Richard Vogel and Cepano Baloubet, Kendra Claricia Brinop and In Time, and Hans-Dieter Dreher and Elysium. It was down to Ireland’s anchorman Bertram Allen and the experienced 11-year-old gelding Pacino Amiro to bring home the goods as silence fell across the arena, and the pair kept the pace up and delivered under pressure to seal the deal.

“I felt the pressure, but I had great confidence in my horse. He was jumping very good in the first round, and then even better in the warm-up for the second round, so it was a good feeling and I trusted that I could do it,” said Bertram.

Denis said confidence was high from the off, with plenty of experience behind them. All the Irish combinations bar Conor and Calciet EB Z were part of the team at the World Championships in Herning last year.

“We all had a really good feeling from the beginning of the week. We came with a plan, and without brilliant teammates this doesn’t happen. I remember on Thursday morning before breakfast Bertram said to me, ‘I have a really good feeling, I think we can win this’,” said Denis.

“Michael changed the team somewhat around, which isn’t the easiest thing to do when there’s five or six riders here. He had to make some big calls, and he made them, and they were the right decision. When it comes off, it’s even sweeter. A lot of the times you can do everything right, everything’s great and going perfect but then you touch a pole, and you don’t win. And when you do win, as a team it’s a pretty incredible thing to do for your country – that’s what it’s all about.”

Britain fourth on return to Spruce Meadows

Although Ben Maher and Exit Remo produced a super second-round clear, it wasn’t to be for the Brits with the team of Ben, Matt Sampson and Equine America Ivanhoe GPH, Sameh El Dahan and WKD Toronto, and John Whitaker and Equine America Unick Du Francport, collecting faults across the board to settle for fourth in Britain’s first Spruce Meadows’ Nations Cup appearance in recent years.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Legendary British showjumper John Whitaker reflects on two momentous wins at Hickstead and ponders the blood rule

Winning the Nations Cup on home soil at Hickstead on Friday was right up there as one of the very best. But when my son Robert followed that with victory in Sunday’s King George V Gold Cup, on a horse I bred, it became one of the greatest weeks of my life.

The Nations Cup win was made all the more special because it was so long coming. After 13 years, it was certainly about time we won it. Every year, I think we should win our own Nations Cup, then it never happens. Sometimes we’ve even been right down the bottom. We did have a good feeling coming into it this year. There was a great team spirit and we were all rooting for each other. So it was a much-needed win, but we won it well.

The first time I was picked for my home Nations Cup, David Broome and Harvey Smith were on the team and I just thought “I’ve made it”. But I have to thank Equine America Unick Du Francport, who is keeping me right up there at the top of the sport.

I was disappointed with my first round because I thought I was a bit unlucky. The plank came off the front, which is unusual. I think it must have been because it’s sited slightly uphill. No, I blame the wind! But in the second round, he jumped even better. I’d only just heard about Mark McAuley’s elimination due to the blood rule as I came in, so I didn’t know that if I jumped clear we would win, but you always try to jump clear anyway.

It was a good crowd. They’ve been rooting for us for the past 13 years and keep coming back, so it’s good we gave them something to cheer about this time. When you don’t win on your home ground, you do feel disappointed for them and you feel as though you’ve let your country down. You’ve let everybody down.

I think it would be desperately sad if we lost the Nations Cup at Hickstead. We’re up against it with the channel and Brexit, so you have to put on something like this to encourage the good foreigners to come. I think we probably need it more than most for that very reason.

The blood rule

Of course, horse welfare comes first, but the blood rule, which came into play in the Nations Cup with the elimination of Ireland’s Mark McAuley, is really harsh. I actually think the stipendiary stewards should be able to use their discretion a bit. Mark didn’t mean to do anything wrong – when horses put in a big jump, your legs go back and it’s so easy to catch the horse’s side slightly with your spur.

There’s a huge difference between doing that unintentionally and being abusive, but the elimination rule covers it all. You could get a wasp sting or catch a branch and end up with the slightest bit of blood that way. But then allowing stewards some discretion means the outcome comes down to someone’s opinion, so it’s a difficult one.

But I do think stewards’ checks should be done out of sight of TV cameras and everybody watching, as it leaves the impression that the sport is bad, which it’s absolutely not.

Full credit to Hickstead

I have to give full credit to the organisers, Lizzie and Edward and the whole Bunn family. We had rain and the ground was still perfect. The courses were good, too.

The show caters for everyone, from the under-10s to the Nations Cup and everything in between. With nine Whitakers there, we were out in force, but there were even more horses – a staggering 3,500 in total.

So with great jumping, some Whitaker wins and a fantastic atmosphere, this was definitely one of the best shows in the world.

● Do you agree with John about the blood rule? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your views published in a future edition of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 3 August, 2023

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Hickstead is “hugely disappointed” to have missed out on the chance to be part of the revamped Nations Cup series.

The FEI announced this year it was to rename the flagship showjumping series and run it in a new format. Last month, the FEI said it had accepted bids from events to run five qualifiers and a final in the Longines League of Nations.

It has confirmed today (1 August) that there will be four qualifiers and a final from next year, and that neither Hickstead nor Dublin is on the list.

“Obviously we’re hugely disappointed, with the FEI’s decision and the way it’s been handled, after 50 years of hosting Britain’s Nations Cup, and after such a magnificent win at Hickstead last week,” Hickstead director Lizzie Bunn told H&H.

“We are still keen to have the Nations Cup, and we now have the freedom to explore other sponsors.”

Lizzie added: “We are fortunate to have many loyal supporters, and the backing of our governing bodies and stakeholders has never been more vital. Our challenge now is that we have just weeks to make crucial decisions about the schedule for next year’s shows, and to secure a new sponsorship deal.”

For the first seasons, from 2024 to 2027, the qualifiers will be held at St Gallen, Switzerland, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Ocala, US. The final will be in Barcelona, Spain. The FEI board unanimously confirmed the decision yesterday.

“The allocations were made further to a bid process, which began on 22 May, with extensive consultation between the FEI, the bidding organisers and their national federations in accordance with the allocation of FEI named events policy,” an FEI spokesman said.

FEI president Ingmar de Vos said it was a “historic decision for the future of equestrian sport”.

“This series is about inspiring individuals and nations around the core values of our sport – camaraderie, team spirit, horsemanship and excellence – and for over a century it has played an invaluable role in the development of equestrian globally.

“We were very pleased with the large number of organisers eager to host a Longines League of Nations event in the coming seasons.

“We undertook the task of selecting the events with great responsibility and I believe we have made a difficult but fair choice, striking a good balance between continuity and evolution. This fresh and exciting series gives us the opportunity to display the very best of team equestrian sport to large audiences in key territories and we are looking forward to working closely with these organisers to continue the Nations Cup legacy and inspire future generations of equestrians.”

Mr de Vos said there were difficult decisions to be made owing to the number of bids submitted to host the series, and thanked organisers for hosting the competition in the past.

“The board allocated four qualifiers for this global series in three regions – two in Europe, one in North America, and one in the Middle East,” FEI secretary general Sabrina Ibáñez said.

“Although we originally planned to have five qualifiers, we were mindful that next year will be particularly busy with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games taking place from 26 July to 11 August. Having four qualifiers keeps the calendar reasonable and allows athletes, horses, and chefs d’équipe to manage horsepower and still have enough time to train, compete, and prepare for the Olympic Games.

“During the inaugural Longines League of Nations season in 2024, we will evaluate the new concept and together with Longines and the FEI jumping committee, we will work towards adding a fifth qualifier in the following seasons.”

You might also be interested in:

‘No better place to win my first Nations Cup’: Harry Charles reflects on momentous home win, 13 years after watching his father

‘The best day’: an emotional John Whitaker helps Great Britain triumph in Hickstead Nations Cup

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

One of the heroes of Friday’s victorious Hickstead Nations Cup team was 24-year-old British rising star Harry Charles.

A year after jumping a double clear for his country with Stall Zet’s impressive Casquo Blue in the Longines FEI Nations Cup of Great Britain, the Hampshire rider achieved the feat once again, this time in a crucial result for the sport. For it had been 13 years since British showjumping fans last had reason to celebrate on home soil when, back in 2010, Harry’s father Peter Charles and the great Murka’s Pom D’Ami, alongside William Funnell (Billy Congo), Tina Fletcher (Hello Sailor) and Michael Whitaker (GIG Amai II) had last lifted the Edward, Prince of Wales Trophy.

But this year, Di Lampard’s squad of Harry, John Whitaker (Equine America Unick Du Francport) – who had been on the sidelines watching the 2010 Nations Cup – Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria) and Ben Maher (Exit Remo) brought home the silverware once again, to some epic celebrations.

Somewhat surprisingly for Harry, who is a veteran of an Olympic games, a world championship medallist and a mainstay of five-star British teams, this was his first Nations Cup success.

“This is amazing – it’s my first Nations Cup win but it’s also amaing for all the guys and Di Lampard,” said Hampshire-based Harry, who also picked up a share of the bonus as one of three riders who jumped double clears in Friday’s two-round competition. “This has been the goal to win the Nations Cup and bring it back. So when a plan comes together like it did today, it’s a real sense of achievement.

“I’m proud of everyone, it’s a really special day.”

Hickstead Nations Cup: ‘I was just a nipper!’

Harry was only 11, “just a nipper!” when he watched his father help Great Britain win the Hickstead Nations Cup in 2010, but he recalls the occasion vividly.

“I remember being here with Jack Whitaker [son of GB team rider Michael] and Will Fletcher [son of Tina Fletcher] in 2010 and I remember that day very clearly – I can’t believe that was the last time we won it! So it’s probably overdue and I’m very happy to bring it back,” said Harry. Notably, both of his friends from that day were also in action in the five-star classes at this year’s Longines Royal International Horse Show, with Jack Whitaker also securing a landmark first senior win at Hickstead.

If someone had told Peter Charles in 201o that it would be 13 years before Great Britain would next win on home soil, with his son on the team, he would have been “very surprised that it was so long coming”, but he had no doubt even back then that his then 11-year-old son would one day be forging his own incredibly successful showjumping career path.

“All through juniors and young riders, he’s been a real horseman, and his sisters Scarlett and Sienna too, so this is a credit to him. I’m very proud,” said Peter.

As a nod to his prowess as a team rider, Harry, who was the youngest of the quartet jumping in the Hickstead Nations Cup this year, has been shifted into the anchorman role as fourth team rider to jump.

“It’s a real privilege to be put in that position in your home Nations Cup,” said Harry. “So thanks to Di and Stanny van Paeschen for the trust.”

The competition had been sealed by third rider John Whitaker’s second-round clear, so Harry’s second round “was nice,” said a smiling Harry.

“The boys did all the hard work – I could just smile and wave a bit!” he said. “But I love jumping here at Hickstad, it’s the perfect place to win my first Nations Cup.”

You may also like to read…

‘The best day’: an emotional John Whitaker helps Great Britain triumph in Hickstead Nations Cup

‘Horse welfare is paramount, but the rule needs changing’: upset for Ireland in Hickstead Nations Cup

Breen remains king of the Queen’s: Shane lifts Hickstead trophy for fourth time

‘It’s 10 years since I won in this ring’: Jack Whitaker claims first senior Hickstead victory

A tailless chestnut mare – whose rider needed convincing to take the reins – is spectacular RIHS 5* winner

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now