Latest from Horse & Hound in Showjumping

‘The challenge of a championship held on grass sifted out all but the very best riders,’ says William Funnell

William Funnell — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 09:25:00 +0000

In this modern era of characterless, flat, sand showjumping rings, how refreshing for a championship to be held on grass where the natural undulations – not just the technicality of the fences – sifted out all but the very best riders.

So hats off to the organisers, the Aachen ground crew and course-designer Frank Rothenberger, who must have had some sleepless nights when faced with nearly 150 horse and rider combinations, 30 teams of varying abilities and the forecast of some challenging and changeable weather. We went from shorts to raincoats very quickly!

Luckily the thunderstorms weren’t as severe as we feared, but Frank had to make allowances for them nevertheless, which meant the courses for the first two days were on the lenient side, with a huge 49 clears on round one of the team final.

We were told that certain jumps would be moved if needed during the rain, but that’s why the water jump wasn’t used until the team final. The option of moving the fences also meant the time allowed had to be more generous. A tighter time in that first team round would have produced a very different result.

With the surfaced dressage ring still sited in the middle of the arena, Frank was limited with the lines he could use. There was one rollback on day one, but otherwise the course consisted of a lot of smooth turns – it was the nicest course I’ve seen to open a showjumping World Championship.

There were faults everywhere in Friday’s team final – even fence one, which was big and had a long, slightly uphill run to it – and the atmosphere was unbelievable. The Brits came to win team gold, but bronze is still a great achievement. Gaining qualification for the Olympics with a year to spare is also a huge advantage as it means Di Lampard and the riders can already start to focus on Los Angeles.

Aachen, like Hickstead and other grass venues, has so much character. Showjumping needs to keep that identity.

“Best horseman in the world”

Coming into Sunday’s individual decider there was just one fence between first and 10th; not even two rails split the entire field of 25 and I’ve never seen it that close. Over two rounds of jumping, even those down the bottom of the leaderboard had a chance for a medal, and so it proved with Harry Charles winning bronze.

Harry’s championship record is unbelievable – he’s won seven junior and senior medals and he’s only 27. He has great horses, the inspiration to do it and I can see him becoming world number one at some stage.

Steve Guerdat has long been the best horseman in the world. The way he is with his horses, his impeccable balance and the freedom he gives his horses in the saddle, make him a great ambassador for our sport.

It was an exciting week in my role as chef d’equipe with the UAE riders, and Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Enjoy De La Mure finished 13th individually. Since getting the individual final in Paris under his belt, he’s gone from strength to strength and Enjoy was a horse I sourced for the team.

None of the riders had done a championship before Paris and, having trained them now for three years, we’re a much closer unit and there’s lots to be proud of.

A super initiative

I don’t know if it was the FEI or Aachen’s idea to have 50 young riders competing in Aachen alongside the championships (report in H&H magazine, 27 August, p66) but what a super initiative for these under-21s, who were selected by their countries to take part in a grand prix and team competition in the main ring.

It offered a great opportunity for our future championship riders to compete in the main ring, walk the courses and to feel a part of it all.

Overall, first-rate horse welfare was on display and we could show how much these horses mean to us. With so many equestrian disciplines together at these World Championships, it’s been a superb, two-week long celebration of horses.

● What were your highlights of the World Championships at Aachen? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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The Horse & Hound Podcast 180 with Robert Whitaker: ‘Winning the King’s Cup three times is amazing – and I think we can do it again’

Carol Phillips — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In episode 180 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, which is sponsored by Equine America, top British showjumper Robert Whitaker talks to our showjumping editor Jennifer Donald about his third King George V Gold Cup win at Hickstead, what life was like growing up in a famous showjumping dynasty and how his partnership with the talented Vermento came about.

In this episode, Robert explains that he rode Vermento’s dam, a tall hot black mare called Vicky, in classes up to 1m50. He talks about how mother and son are different and why his father John Whitaker’s stallion Argento was a great match for her when they decided to put her in foal.

“Vicky was quite hot, so it was a good combination with Argento as he’s got a very good brain”
Robert Whitaker on Vermento’s breeding

To hear more about Robert’s early life in the Whitaker family, how a trip to Spruce Meadows helped set Vermento up for Hickstead this year and why he thinks they can equal his uncle Michael's record of four King’s Cups at Hickstead next year, listen to the podcast.

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Whatever your preferred discipline, there is so much to enjoy listening to in our podcasts. We love to hear your feedback on any of our podcasts, so please do send your thoughts to pippa.roome@futurenet.com

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Meet the brothers behind Faultless, showjumping’s answer to Drive to Survive

Oscar Williams — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 15:55:00 +0000

“The goal was to broaden the audience and bring in a base that might never have had any idea about the sport,” sums up Ben Asselin of Faultless, the new six-part documentary series he’s produced with his older brother, Kyle Koss.

“If you can get them attracted to a certain character, or a certain story, they’re like, ‘I had no idea that’s what it took.’

“From just the 80 seconds in the ring, you don’t see all the hard work, the setbacks, the injuries, the financial burdens that go into it – and that’s where the real stories are.”

Ben had ridden at five-star level for years. Kyle has never sat on a horse competitively in his life. Between them, they’ve produced a series following 14 of the world’s leading showjumpers across a single season, focusing mainly at venues included in the Rolex Grand Slam.

How to watch Faultless

UK: Stream via Amazon Prime Video. There is also set to be a separate distribution arrangement via Horse & Country TV, but this yet to be confirmed.

US/CAN: Stream via Roku

If you’re away from home, you can use NordVPN to secure your stream of the action from anywhere in the world.

It’s made by Brighter Frame Productions and Terminal B TV, in partnership with Spruce Meadows and Rolex, and narrated by three-time Emmy nominee Walton Goggins – of The White Lotus fame. And it exists, in large part, because of a Canadian venue that has belonged to Ben and Kyle’s family for half a century.

The idea itself, though, began somewhere much more improbably, with a non-alcoholic Martini. Kyle was in Los Angeles developing said Martini – the first in the world by his reckoning – with a business partner, Danny Stepper, when the conversation turned to television.

“I asked Danny because he grew up in Hollywood and I knew he might know some people,” Kyle recalls. “I said, ‘Is there anybody you know in reality TV?’ And he said, ‘Yeah, I know this guy named Tom Forman.’”

That introduction – to Tom, a veteran producer at Terminal B TV – became the backbone of the series. But the concept had been forming for longer, born at the family’s Christmas table the year before.

“As someone a little more on the outside of the sport, I was thinking how showjumping would really benefit from something similar to Drive to Survive in Formula One,” Kyle says.

He took the idea to Ben, then recovering from a ruptured spleen and easing away from top-level competition himself.

“I gave him a document, which was the treatment of the episodes,” Kyle says.

Ben brought a lifetime of contacts within the sport; Kyle brought the deal making.

“We come at it from two different places,” Kyle says. “Ben being the athlete and I'm kind of just the observer. But I have more of the business background. It was a massive challenge because we’d never produced a TV show before. But I’d never made a Martini either!”

“We’d never produced a TV show before – but I’d never made a Martini either”
Kyle Koss, non-alcoholic Martini – and now TV – producer

Scratch beneath the motivations behind the decision to make the show, and Spruce Meadows is usually somewhere underneath it. Their grandfather founded the venue, drawing on Europe’s best when he built it.

“He learnt a lot from European venues like Hickstead and Aachen,” Ben says.

Kyle adds: “He wanted a facility where North Americans also had an opportunity to compete on an international stage. It was part of a broader ambition, too – to put the sport in front of an audience that had never had a reason to watch it before.”

Faultless is a continuation of that ambition.

“We were representing our own brand, in Spruce Meadows. We were representing the Rolex Grand Slam. But we were also representing all these different venues that have been around for longer than we have,” Ben says. “And we didn’t build those, right? So it was a huge responsibility.”

The timing sharpened that further. Faultless was shot during Spruce Meadows’ 50th anniversary year, against the backdrop of a $5m grand prix prize purse and a Rolex Grand Slam bid that handed the season a ready-made narrative arc before a single camera began rolling.

The Spruce Meadows showground, the focal point in the docuseries Faultless (Image credit: Alamy)

Faultless isn’t the first attempt to bring cameras into the world of elite equestrian sport. But for Ben there’s a reason why most of those attempts missed the mark. He recalls hearing from the Whitaker family about previous approaches.

“Even speaking with the Whitaker boys, there have been numerous times where a production crew has tried to come in and film that. And they just want to go and film them at the bar or get into the drama of their families. And that’s something that we really wanted to stray away from.”

The brothers looked instead to Drive to Survive for a template – and, tellingly, to what they felt other equestrian-adjacent documentaries had got wrong.

“We found that the other equestrian docuseries that were out didn’t necessarily capture the actual top level of sport, per se – focusing more on the lifestyle around the sport,” Ben says. “We wanted to have something that resembled the same level of respect for the sport that our venue at Spruce Meadows did.”

Kyle picks up the same point from a different angle, pointing to the range of riders the series actually follows.

“You’ve got a Steve Guerdat, a Martin Fuchs – dialled in, but even the difference between those two is quite substantial. And then you go from a Lillie Keenan to a Kyle King, completely different backgrounds. But they all share the same goal.”

Swiss riders Martin Fuchs and the new world champion Steve Guerdat star in the show (Image credit: Alamy)

A few decades ago, equestrian sport was something of a regular fixture on mainstream British television. These days, you’re more likely to spot a horse on a fashion runway than in the ring. Fashion houses have leaned hard into equestrian imagery for the Year of the Horse and Rupert Campbell-Black has galloped onto the small screen in Hulu’s adaptation of Rivals – yet the sport itself is barely visible at all. It raises the question: does equestrian media need to start telling new stories?

“I wanted to make something that I wanted to watch,” Kyle says, “because in some cases it can be a bit boring to watch 30 riders go around the ring. But it can also be a bit boring to watch a Formula One race for 90 laps.”

His argument isn’t that the sport lacks material.

“There’s so much there that you can unpack and create a real narrative around what this actually is that people just don’t see. I think there’s a real potential for all horse media, for all horse sport, to take it and say, you know what, this is a special thing.

“You’ve got men and women competing against each other on an equal playing field. You’ve got people coming from all walks of life, not just people that had tonnes of money growing up.”

Irish rider Daniel Coyle's story, told across episode five, is his go-to example.

"He talks about how he couldn't read or write,” he says. “There wasn’t that much opportunity for somebody like that. And he's now made himself one of the top athletes in the sport.”

Daniel Coyle is one of the top showjumpers followed in the docuseries (Image credit: Alamy)

Ben adds: “A lot of the time in the equestrian industry, we’re always marketing to ourselves. To actually educate people on what's going on, you have to open up the doors to it. I feel like a lot of the time we hide too much and then you try to just show the best things about it, but that's not reality.”

Kyle, for all his self-described distance from the sport, makes an animated case for why the horse’s place in the world deserves much more screen time. He traces it back to their own upbringing in western Canada, along the old Cowboy Trail.

“The horse was the real key component to that,” he says, of his province’s development. “We wouldn’t have anything without horses. And you know, my grandfather knew that.”

“The horse was the real key component. We wouldn’t have anything without horses”
Kyle Koss on his upbringing in western Canada

Of course, equestrian sport is under increased scrutiny at the moment when it comes to its social licence to operate, and Ben is conscious of that pressure without letting it make him cagey. His instinct runs the other way – show more, not less, on the theory that the reality holds up better than people assume.

He stresses how he was keen to show how the horses in Faultless have their “diets dialled in”, their “exercise programmes dialled in”, their “mental wellbeing dialled in” – they’re full-time athletes with full-time support staff, not animals wheeled out on competition weekends.

But none of which means the series flinches from risk. Spruce Meadows has form here. The venue used to run a YouTube series called Thrills and Spills, which showed the sport’s worst falls alongside its biggest wins, and Ben says that same instinct carried over into Faultless. Martin Fuchs’ serious fall at Spruce Meadows, mid-Grand Slam bid, makes the final cut.

“You can’t write that. You can’t script any of that. But you also see that now he’s back and he’s winning again.”

Getting riders to hand over their worst days, as well as their best, took more than a good pitch – it took Ben’s own standing in the sport.

“There was a lot of social capital on the line – a lot of relationships that mean a lot to us,” he says. “I think the confidence from the riders came from the longstanding relationship that our family has had with the sport.”

Both brothers insist nothing was staged for effect.

“We were not telling people, go over and talk to this person. We were not manufacturing storylines,” Kyle says. “We took the footage that we had and that footage created the storylines that we followed naturally.”

Riders were mic’d from a distance rather than crowded by a crew, and some, Ben adds, “forgot they had a mic on.”

“We’re not making money out of this – it was a large investment”
Kyle Koss on boosting the sport

Neither brother sounds like someone planning to stop at one season. Ben flags Richard Vogel’s live bid to become only the second rider ever to complete the Rolex Grand Slam – after Scott Brash – as unfinished business the series is well placed to follow. But Kyle doesn't dress up the economics.

“We’re not making money out of this,” he says. “It was a large investment. But we think that in time, it will be a good investment – not just for us personally, but for the sport in general. If it can broaden the audience base, it really lifts everybody up.”

Whether Faultless genuinely does for showjumping what Drive to Survive did for Formula One is still an open question. But the brothers have put themselves at the front of the queue for reimagining what equestrian media could look like.

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‘I don’t think it gets any better than this’: showjumping legend wins individual world title

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 17:18:04 +0000

The legendary Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme have been crowned individual 2026 world showjumping champions in fabulous style.

The Swiss team was not on the podium on Friday, although they did secure Olympic qualification by finishing fifth. But Steve and the fantastic 13-year-old mare – European champions three years ago and the reigning Olympic silver medallists – were faultless all week, and topped it off with two foot-perfect rounds today.

They were in the silver-medal position going into the first round, and CHC Horses SA & La Giraffa SA’s superstar mare had her ears pricked throughout, to stay on their 0.86 score.

When leaders Daniel Deusser and Otello De Guldenboom had an early fence, Steve went into the second round with a fence in hand – but he didn’t need it. This second course was such a tough one – only the three medallists jumped it clear – but like the absolute pros they are, Steve and Dynamix flew it in perfect style.

“I don’t have the words,” an emotional Steve said straight afterwards. “I’m just coming down now. I’d like to be with my team now because they deserve this medal as much as I do, and my horse and all the team around me.

“Most of them made the trip today to come here; my dad is watching at home, so for everybody, I’m really proud.”

2026 world showjumping champions join elite group

Steve joins an elite group to have won the world, European and Olympic individual titles, not to mention the World Cup Final.

“All the titles I wanted when I was a kid, and I was very nervous all week,” he said. “Normally my championships get better in [anxiety] once I get into it, but this week it kept getting worse.

“World Championships come every four years, and it’s not every four years you have a horse like Dynamix. It’s not every World Championship that you’re in a situation where you can win a medal, and maybe the gold, which I was dreaming of. I kept very nervous about what might be my last chance to get it.

“I never wanted to finish my career before having won Aachen; there’s no day in my life I don’t think about Aachen, and to win the world title, the one I was missing, in Aachen – I don’t think it gets any better than that.”

Steve, who has been blessed by so many fabulous horses, has long cited this mare as one of the best, and this title just confirms his view.

“I’m somewhere now I never dreamed of,” he said. “I have a lot of pride obviously for my horse, first, but all the team around, my family; it takes so many people to bring you here. I’m the one on podium, but I wish I could take a few other people up there with me and share it with them.”

Super silver for Belgium

Young Belgian rider Thibeau Spits, 25, added to the team silver he helped secure for his country with an individual of the same colour, riding Impress-K van't Kattenheye Z. The pair, who were on the team that won European gold last year, jumped two fabulous rounds today to finish on 5.6 penalties.

Thibeau Spits and Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z on the way to individual silver at the 2026 showjumping World Championships (Image credit: FEI/Lenajo de Koster)

Thibeau has achieved such heights so early, but “it’s not getting much better than this!” he said.

“I never dreamed of it, I’ll probably never have a horse in such good shape and as talented as he is,” he said. “After last year, I dreamed a lot of things, after the second day here to have a rail, I was a bit devastated.

“It was a fault that didn’t have to happen but after that I changed my mind. I went feeling I trust him on his talent and today, after the team medal on Friday, I could enter without pressure, just try to enjoy today, so this medal is just unbelievable.

“He gave me so much trust, day by day just riding on the flat, he started to feel better. I felt he was ready for it, and he gave me a lot of confidence coming in to today.”

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Disappointment for Ben Maher in World Championships final after a brilliant week

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 16:27:53 +0000

Ben Maher and Point Break had a heartbreaking stop in the first round of today’s individual final at the showjumping World Championships.

Having done so much to secure the team bronze medal on Friday night (21 August), Ben and the star stallion owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright were in the bronze-medal preposition individually this morning, having not touched a fence all week.

They were absolutely flying this afternoon, the little stallion looking on top form, but somehow Point Break stopped at the wavy planks. They cleared it on the second attempt, and everything else, but the stop and time-faults put them down to 17th place, on 11.01 penalties.

“It was just a small mistake, not good enough at this level,” Ben said.

“He was jumping well, made a big effort in the triple combination, and just away from the gate, the triple bar was big for him.

“He jumped it well but I had to react fast to correct where I landed on the water, which was good riding. But then I probably paid for it afterwards.”

Ben Maher on his final World Championships round

Ben said the 12-year-old stallion got a bit unsettled, Ben tried to settle him but he took his eye to the right, just before that plank.

“That’s what I felt, and I just looked at the video and it was just enough to distract him, and he took his eye off the jump for a very, very split second, and didn’t pick up,” Ben said.

“So I’m disappointed, but overall he jumped well, and I just expected more from today.”

Germany’s Sophie Hinners, who had helped secure team gold for Germany having jumped clear every day, had her first fence of the week with Iron Dames Singclair in the first round today; it was the very last rail that fell. She was in seventh place going into the final round, then two rails and a time-fault dropped them down the order.

“It was a bit unlucky in the end,” Sophie said. “He jumped unbelievable again. I think the difficult parts he jumped so easily; the first round it was a pity on the last, but the second round he started great, had an unlucky rail at the beginning.

“Then I was a bit far off on the oxer but the second part of the course he jumped unbelievable to the end. So I’m really, really proud of him.

“Of course, a double clear would have been nicer today, but still, I think to finish in the top 10 in his first championships, my first World Championships, I think we can be really proud of that. Of course, the [team] gold medal was absolutely the most amazing. So I think we can go home with a very good feeling and be very proud.”

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Not to be for Scott Brash at World Championships as unlucky fall brings individual medal dream to an end

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 16:12:08 +0000

It was not to be for superstars Scott Brash and Hello Mango in today’s individual final at the showjumping World Championships.

The British combination had been in the lead individually going into Friday night’s team final, but the very first fence – a Lindt oxer that had fallen more than any other jump that day – fell for them. Scott rode beautifully and the mare owned by Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham flew to jump the rest of the round clear and secure team bronze for Britain – but the four faults meant they went into today’s individual final in 10th place.

In the first round, Scott showed some superb horsemanship to get through the triple combination but as Mango went a bit high over the wall, the six strides to the Longines oxer wasn’t quite there and they clipped it. Their score of 8.8 was enough to take them into the second round in 12th place.

This meant they were first to go, and the second-round track appeared to be a great deal tougher; only the eventual medallists jumped clear.

Scott Brash unseated at World Championships

Scott and Mango started strong, the mare looking full of jumping, until she caught the back rail of the first element of the triple combination. She then paddled through the second and Scott was unseated, falling to the ground under the fence as she jumped the last element.

Scott got back to his feet and he and Mango walked out of the arena. He then rode her briefly to cool her down in the warm-up arena – and was one of the first to congratulate team-mate Harry Charles on his and Freda’s fantastic bronze.

It was an individual final of incredible drama; of those top 25 combinations the medallists – champions Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme of Switzerland Belgium’s Thibeau Spits and Impress-K van't Kattenheye Z and Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda – were the only combinations to put two clears on the board.

Piergiorgia Bucci and Hantano for Italy, Colombians Roberto Teran Tafur and Dez’ Ooktoff and home rider Daniel Deusser with Otello De Guldenboom, who had been second, third and fourth individually going into the second round this afternoon, had a fence down each – the very last for both Daniel and Piergiorgio.

Daniel, who had been in second place going into today but had one down in each round, said a better result than this is needed to win a medal.

“Maybe [Otello De Guldenboom was] tired, maybe it was concentration, maybe it was a bit a lack of energy,” he said. “It’s difficult to analyse right now; but he did a lot of good things also in between.”

Roberto added: “I’m very happy because I had a great week.

“I’m a little sad because I am not on the podium, of course. But I had a fantastic week. I enjoyed every minute, and you have to be grateful to be here at this level. And fifth place is a dream for me.

“I’m crazy happy with [my horse]; he’s one of a kind for me. He has done everything for me. He doesn’t owe me anything, and he gave me his heart out there in the ring.”

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Never give up – Harry Charles and ‘dream horse’ Freda pull off the story of the World Championships by landing a fabulous bronze

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 15:42:56 +0000

Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda have pulled off the story of the showjumping World Championships, rising from 59th place on Thursday evening – to winning an individual bronze medal this afternoon.

This combination, who have only been together for three months, went into today’s individual final in 23rd place but jumped clear in the first round, then repeated the feat, one of only three combinations to remain fault-free in both.

They finished on 7.17 penalties, behind champions Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme of Switzerland and Belgium’s Thibeau Spits and Impress-K van't Kattenheye Z.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of a week,” said an emotional Harry. “Freda has been incredible these whole championships and grown into it.

“To start off, I thought I blew it the first day, knew I blew it the second day! I managed to pull a clear out on Friday and honestly wondered if it was the right thing to even jump today.”

Harry said that even though he and Freda started in 23rd place today, “you never know what could happen”. And he was right; he and the fabulous 12-year-old mare who was initially bought for his wife Eve Jobs to ride but with whom Harry struck up an instant rapport, were absolutely flying. The second-round track proved very, very tough; Harry and Freda’s was the first clear and for a while the only one.

Harry Charles on the World Championships courses

“She felt so fresh, and in the first course she ate it,” Harry said. “A few had fences but it was still a massive long shot going into the second round; I thought just let her do her thing.

“I knew maybe there wouldn’t be many clears in the second round; it was enormous, and she just ate it again. I can’t believe the feeling I got, and I can’t believe the horse I have.”

After the first round today, Harry said he would have been delighted if that had been the end of the championship for him; he went in under no pressure, just wanting to jump clear.

“I’m just so pleased with her,” he said. “I’m actually happy with myself today as well; I thought I gave her a pretty good ride, and as big as it was, she made it feel very easy.”

Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda clear the final fence in the last round of the 2026 showjumping World Championships (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

Harry said that in May, he had no plans to be at these World Championships and was “probably going to watch it on an iPad”. But then Freda came along.

“She showed up, and she’s a dream horse really,” he said. “She’s so intelligent, doesn’t really get fazed by much. This is still quite a new level for her; she did the World Cup Finals, the biggest atmosphere and courses she’s jumped, but this is again another level up., and it’s amazing how well she handles it. She just gets on with it and is so calm about everything. She’s really a dream to ride.”

Harry said Ewen Mackintosh, Freda’s New Zealand breeder, is in Aachen and came to see her this morning.

“He’s a really nice guy and was really proud of her,” he said. “Freda’s story is incredible... everyone in New Zealand has done an amazing job creating an absolute superstar of a horse, and the nature of her as well is even more special than the talent.”

How far the British team has come

Harry said the British aim for Aachen was winning a medal, and that perhaps there was slight disappointment not to have done even better than they did. In Herning four years ago, Olympic qualification was the main aim and the medal was a huge bonus.

“Which is I think as a team is a great place to be,” he said. “In Herning, we couldn’t believe we got a medal, so I really think it goes to show how far this team has come. We’re of course very happy to get a bronze medal, but we wanted more, and that’s not a bad thing, I don’t think.

“And when we go to LA, we’re going to very much be in the minds of reclaiming our title.”

After his second round, Harry looked back on the week, praising the team performance to win bronze, but adding that he never thought an individual medal would be on the cards.

“It’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid,” he said. “In the youth [ranks] we did championships, and I felt maybe it was something I lacked as a rider; I hadn’t really competed properly in championships. And I really thought I blew it, to be honest.

“But I have an incredible horse. That really is all it comes down to. She got this bronze, and I was just lucky to be sat on her. To all her team, everyone, even in New Zealand, who’s given me so much support, she really deserves a medal. I’m so happy to have given it to her.”

The luck was not with the other British contenders today; Ben Maher and Point Break had an unexpected stop at the wavy planks in the first round, which put them out of contention for the second. Scott Brash and Hello Mango had a rail in the first, then Scott was unseated in the second round. Both Scott and Hello Mango walked away.

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Ben Maher eyes the podium as he starts World Championships individual final in strong position

Pippa Roome — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 10:58:08 +0000

Ben Maher is in third going into tomorrow’s showjumping World Championships individual final, with a great chance to add to Britain’s medal haul.

Ben and the 12-year-old bay stallion Point Break, owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright, have not hit a rail in three rounds of jumping so far, leading Britain to bronze in last night’s team final.

They sit on 1.01 penalties, behind the joint-leaders Steve Guerdat and Daniel Deusser, who each have 0.86 of a penalty on their card.

Asked how he’ll prepare today late last night after the team medal ceremony, which took place in pouring rain, Ben said: “Rest. Go and get a shower, warm up this evening.

“For me, Point Break’s been great. He did a lot of work the past few days so he’ll hack around, then we’ll let the horses have a nice off day and prepare for Sunday.”

Ben was individual Olympic champion at the Tokyo Olympics on Explosion W and has twice won European individual silver. The Hertfordshire rider has finished fourth individually at three of his past four championships and he seeks his first world individual medal. Last night’s bronze was his 11th senior championship medal in all.

Germany’s Daniel Deusser, who secured team gold for the home side last night, said his plan for Otello De Guldenboom is similar to Ben’s: “It’s already late tonight, so the grooms and also the horses will rest a little bit. Maybe also the riders tomorrow morning.

“We have a second veterinary inspection in the late afternoon tomorrow. I think we’re going to ride them a little bit before that, walk them a little bit, and then we go into Sunday.”

The joint-leader Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat commented on how his Paris 2024 individual silver medallist Dyanamix De Belheme jumped yesterday after his clear round: “I’m kind of happy, but not completely happy.

“The way the triple combination happened wasn't planned. I wanted to come in slow, but that was maybe a little too slow, and she responded too well to what I wanted, so I ended up being very far off part b and even further to c, so she had to make a huge effort coming out.

“She really helped me today, so I’m very proud of her and I hope I can make it up to her on Sunday.”

Steve has been Olympic and European champion (in 2023 on the same mare he rides here in Aachen, Dynamix De Belheme), while Daniel is looking for his first individual championship medal, of any colour.

Britain’s Scott Brash is in 10th with Hello Mango after having the first fence down yesterday, so he still has a shot at an individual medal but will be relying on others making mistakes to move on to the podium.

Eight-time championship medallist Scott has not yet won an individual gold.

The top 25 start tomorrow, so Britain’s Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda will also have a chance to add to their Aachen experience, although being realistic, in 23rd place they are unlikely to win a medal.

After the first round tomorrow, the top 12 go through to the final medal decider.

Who has qualified for the individual final at the showjumping World Championships?

Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme (SUI)
Daniel Deusser and Otello De Belheme (GER)
Ben Maher and Point Break (GBR)
Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42 (GER)
Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair (GER)
Abdel Said and Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z (BEL)
Piergiorgio Bucci and Hantano (ITA)
Roberto Teran Tafur and Dez'Ooktoff (COL)
Armando Trapote and Tornado VS (ESP)
Scott Brash and Hello Mango (GBR)
Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Enjoy De La Mure (UAE)
Laura Kraut and Baloutinue (USA)
Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del'Isle (ITA)
Richard Vogel and United Touch S (GER)
Thibeau Spits and Impress-K Van't Kattenheye Z (BEL)
Nina Mallevaey and Dynastie De Beaufour (FRA)
Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz (IRL)
Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen and Equine America Harwich VDL (NOR)
Stephan De Freitas Barcha and Cheveaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio (BRA)
Caroline Rehoff Pedersen and Polonis L (DEN)
McLain Ward and High Star Hero (USA)
Eugenio Garza Perez and Contago (MEX)
Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda (GBR)
Carlos Hank Guerreiro and H5 Shaq Attack (MEX)
Ibrahim Hani Bisharat and Lesther (JOR)

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Which nations secured Olympic qualification in last night’s showjumping World Championships team final? And who missed out?

Pippa Roome — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 08:12:40 +0000

Seven nations secured Olympic qualification in last night’s showjumping World Championships final in Aachen – and two missed out.

The teams who won a coveted ticket to Los Angeles were Germany, Belgium, Great Britain, Italy, Switzerland, Ireland and France. The USA, who finished fourth, qualify for LA28 automatically as hosts.

Denmark and Sweden were the other two nations in last night’s final, but finished ninth and 10th so failed to take home a qualification.

“We’re very happy to get qualification and even more so to get the medal,” said British team member Harry Charles after Britain collected the bronze behind Germany and Belgium.

The Irish had a tough start to the night when Darragh Kenny had to withdraw Eddy Blue but eventually finished seventh.

Horse Sport Ireland senior jumping manager Jessica Kuerten said: “That hit us very hard but in true Irish style, everybody pulled together and gave it their absolute best shot to earn us the qualification.

“I think when we're very realistic we have to be delighted that we're going to Los Angeles.”

Steve Guerdat was disappointed in Switzerland’s sixth place: “I think it’s good that we got the qualification, but that’s not what we came for. A medal feels good. The qualification doesn’t feel anything.

“That’s the top of the sport. You see an unbelievable level of competition and I think that our horses all jumped really good and all the riders rode very well. Maybe there’s still a little bit of a lack of experience here and there, but we had some very good rounds. It’s not a bad result, but it’s just not good enough.”

Denmark and Sweden are now among the nations who must seek qualification at next year’s European Championships in Waregem, Belgium. The top three teams who have not already qualified will pick up a ticket to LA there.

Teams who secured showjumping Olympic qualification in Aachen

Germany
Belgium
Great Britain
Italy
Switzerland
Ireland
France

The USA are already qualified as hosts of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

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Germany crowned showjumping world champions on home soil before their final rider even jumps

Pippa Roome — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 21:39:08 +0000

Germany secured gold in the showjumping World Championships team results this evening by a comfortable margin.

Daniel Deusser was the third rider in for the home side and had the opportunity to confirm their win if he went clear on Otello De Guldenboom. He duly delivered, giving Germany victory without needing anchorman Richard Vogel’s score.

Daniel said: “It’s not only tonight, this is a result of a long journey for this year, all looking forward to the World Championships here in Aachen. As Germans, it’s an unbelievable show – I can't describe it, it’s unique.”

Marcus Ehing led off for Germany with a clear on Coolio 42.

“My horse was amazing today – I didn’t stick to the numbers I want to do in the course between the jumps, but the way he’s listening is unbelievable and it’s incredible how he’s jumped the last three days,” he said.

He was followed by Sophie Hinners, who just had one time-fault on Iron Dames Singclair.

She said: “I think we enjoyed it a little bit too much in the arena. It was a little bit unnecessary to have a time-fault, but I’m incredibly proud of him.”

Sophie’s time-fault didn’t affect the team result, though pushed her down to fifth in the individual standings – she would be in the lead without it. Likewise, her compatriot Richard Vogel ended up having two time-faults on United Touch S, which will not help his bid for an individual medal. He is now in 14th place.

Chef d’equipe Otto Becker joins Richard Vogel, Marcus Ehning, Sophie Hinners and Daniel Deusser on the top of the podium at the World Championships in Aachen (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

Scott Brash’s four-fault round secured a medal for Britain, but it was uncertain whether it would be bronze or silver until final Belgian rider, Abdel Saïd had jumped. His clear on Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z gave Belgium silver and confirmed Britain’s bronze.

Abdel was backed up today by Pieter Devos, who had four faults on home-bred Casual DV Z, and Thibeau Spits, who went clear on Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z.

Showjumping World Championships team results: US slide to fourth

The US were the big losers in today’s showjumping World Championship team results, starting the day in provisional silver and ending up fourth.

Their lead-off rider Laura Kraut had fence 10b down with Baloutinue – this double of triple bar to upright plank was very influential.

She was followed by Katie Dinan, who had a tricky ride through the treble at fence 5abc and then pulled Out Of The Blue SCF out of the open water at fence six and put her hand up to retire.

Lillie Keenan clattered through fence one with Fasther and then had a further four faults at the upright over a water tray at fence 13.

Lillie said: “The first fault was very uncharacteristic with my horse. The middle of the course, all the really hard parts, we did pretty well. It's hard for me to tell you exactly why I had the Liverpool – I do think my horse is so in touch with me and he probably knew that I was a little bit like deflated.

“Today was a harder day for us to be honest, because when we went in the [grass] warm-up, there’s no lights. I was trying to keep the footing the same for my horse because I think that that’s fair [so I warmed up in the grass arena rather than the indoor school], but he couldn't really see. So I had a refusal the first fence I went to, which obviously doesn't feel great.

“And then because we knew our score had to count for the team, I think I was maybe riding a little bit more defensive. And to jump clear rounds and win, you have to ride on the offensive and not the defensive.”

A clear from McLain Ward and High Star Hero was not enough to revive the US fortunes and bring them back into medal contention.

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They’ve done it: three-man Irish team beats the odds to secure Olympic place

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 21:30:12 +0000

Team Ireland have booked their ticket to the Los Angeles Olympics with one horse and rider down, in a rollercoaster of an evening at the showjumping World Championships.

The team of Bertram Allen (Qonquest de Rigo), Darragh Kenny (Eddy Blue), Cian O’Connor (Chatolinue PS) and Shane Sweetnam (James Kann Cruz) had qualified in 10th place for tonight’s (21 August) team final. Then this afternoon, it was announced that Darragh and Eddy would not compete.

“After careful assessment this afternoon, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw Eddy Blue,” Darragh said.

“Whilst he is well and happy in himself, I noticed he was not feeling 100% when I rode him this morning. Following discussion with our team vet Marcus Swail and the whole Irish team, we agreed that protecting his long-term health and soundness must always come first.

“He is a special horse, and his wellbeing has always been, and will always be, my first priority.”

Ireland a man down at showjumping World Championships

First to go for the team, Bertram Allen was under pressure as the withdrawal meant all scores had to count. He and Qonquest De Rigo were flying but the first element of the tricky double fell for a score of four. There was heartbreak for Cian as the very last fence fell; at that point Ireland was ninth, and out of the qualifying places.

But Denmark’s Caroline Rehoff Pedersen and Polonis L had a fence, then Wilma McMahon and Cicci BJN had 16 for Sweden, moving Ireland up again.

Giacamo Casadei and Marbella Du Chabli clocked up eight faults for Italy, and Ireland moved up further. Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Kruz also had the first element of the double, but Andreas Schou and Napoli vh Nederassenthof’s eight for Italy, and Julien Epaillard and Fringan De Vesquerie’s eight for France, secured Ireland seventh place.

“It was a bit of a mistake on my side for that combination; honestly, there was a clear round right there,” said Shane. “But he jumped great.

“I suppose the most important thing is, we’re qualified for the Olympics. Especially with three men today, we really had to pull it out, and everyone did. At least that’s a big bonus, and let’s see what happens on Sunday.”

Pressure on

Cian said he was delighted with Chatolinue’s performance on such a tricky course, especially under the floodlights.

“He felt fantastic,” he said. “The triple combination, he jumped it like a gymnast, and the water comes so quickly after but he felt super. I thought I was doing well after the triple bar-vertical double; that was difficult for me, and I took my time going around, squared up, and the last three jumps he jumped really well.

“When I was coming to the last, he was getting a bit strong, and I could have just held on to his front end a bit more. He had a bare rub on the front pole of the last, so a bit of an unlucky rail, but I’m very pleased how he jumped.”

Cian also cited the pressure of being a man down, adding that the main goal was a place at the Olympics.

“For a country like Ireland, so rich in riders and with so much talent, hopefully that’ll give people good motivation at home, to know team Ireland is qualified for LA,” he said.

“Fellas with a good eight- or nine-year-old can bring the horse along and aim for that. Current or new owners might get involved in the game and give back to some of these top Irish riders we have with investment to try to peak and medal at the Olympic Games with the right horsepower underneath us.”

Cian added that the Olympics are very special to him.

“They’re close to my heart personally, as the only Irish Olympic showjumping medallist,” he said. “And LA will probably be my last Games.”

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Brilliant bronze for Britain – and Olympic qualification secured on a fantastic night of jumping in Aachen

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:57:25 +0000

Britain has secured a fabulous team bronze at the showjumping World Championships, qualifying for the 2028 LA Olympics at the first opportunity.

Ben Maher (Point Break), Harry Charles (LT Holst Freda), Adrian Whiteway (Chacco Volo) and Scott Brash (Hello Mango) added just four faults between them tonight to take their deserved place on the podium, behind Germany – who won gold with a fence and a rider in hand – and silver medallists Belgium.

Ben and Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright’s star stallion kicked things off with a clear round Ben described as “perfect”.

“He hasn’t jumped under lights too much but I knew his quality would come through with the different lighting this evening, and it was about keeping him brave and relaxed,” he said.

“He went in and he gave me the exact plan, the exact ride I had planned and visualised. When that happens, there’s not a lot to say really. It doesn’t happen very often but he was absolute perfection for me this evening. I’m very proud of him and my team. It’s a long long road to get these horses from a young horse all the way to this level.”

Chef d’equipe Di Lampard joins the British riders on the podium (Image credit: Benjamin Clark)

Britain’s bronze at the World Championships: how it unfolded

Second to go for the team, Harry Charles showed his superb horsemanship – and Freda her class – as they jumped a crucial clear, after less than four months together.

Harry said this was a very tough course, as expected for a championship final, and the floodlights played their part in the pressure.

“The atmosphere is amazing, and I’m very happy to get a clear, finally,” he said.

“She’s not knocked a jump all week, it’s been me, so I felt a lot of relief after the finish line; the feeling was again incredible. I left her a little bit fresh this morning, not knowing quite how she’d be on a third day of jumping, and she just came out; I had double handfuls the whole way round. I just sat quiet and said whoa to her, and she just ate it. I’m very happy to give her a proper ride, and we've kept the team in with a shout.”

“All year, I’ve just been dreaming of this championship”
Harry Charles

Harry said after yesterday’s disappointment, “I had to get over myself, to be honest”.

“It was a pretty low day,” he said. “I’ve knocked jumps down plenty of times, but yesterday really sucked.

“You never know when you’re going to get a horse that good, if ever again, so you want to come here. This might be the only time in my life the championships are here in Aachen. I hope not, but it’s such a special place, and all year, I’ve just been dreaming of this championship.

“In May, I wasn’t even planning on coming, I didn’t have a horse, then Freda kind of showed up. The old saying is ‘I think it’s hope that kills you’. Maybe I got a bit ambitious with where I was in the partnership, but I think whatever happens today, we’re going to walk away, I think, with our heads held high. And I’ve got a very special horse for the next few years, and I’m just going to take really good care of her.”

Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda jump clear in the team final at the World Championships in Aachen (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

“It’s an absolute delight to be in Aachen – there’s no place like it”
Di Lampard

Adrian Whiteway and Deborah Cox’s Chacco Blue did not have luck with them tonight; the first Lindt oxer, which fell more than any other fence tonight, hit the turf. Adrian rode beautifully through the combination but they knocked the first element of the double, and the second fell too. Adrian held it together to finish with three time-faults but this 15 had to be the drop score.

So the pressure was all on Scott’s shoulders again – but again the Lindt fence hit the turf. Perhaps by this late stage, and after some heavy rain, the going was not what it had been. But Scott rode superbly to jump clear the rest of the way, which meant a second successive world team bronze at least for Britain.

“It’s an absolute delight to be in Aachen, there’s no place like it,” chef d’equipe Di Lampard said. “To bring this team forward and be on the podium and with Olympic qualification – we’re very pleased. Congratulations, Germany and Belgium, it’s been great sport all week, and the organisation has been fantastic. So we’re very happy.”

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Ireland squeak into showjumping World Championships team final

Pippa Roome — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:47:43 +0000

Ireland have made it into the team final at the showjumping World Championships by finishing 10th in the standings following the speed leg and today’s round – the top 10 teams go through to tomorrow evening’s team medal decider under floodlights.

The Irish quartet started today carrying a score of 7.69 and seventh place from yesterday’s opening speed competition.

Pathfinder Darragh Kenny chose the six rather than five-stride option to the final Mercedes-Benz white upright (fence 13) and Eddy Blue knocked it down.

He was followed by Bertram Allen, who also had four faults when Qonquest De Rigo took the back rail off the Longines oxer at fence one with his hind legs.

“It’s bit of a bummer – we just had the first fence down and I’m not sure why. He jumped fantastic after that. It’s a real shame and there are a lot of clears today so that four faults is going to be expensive, unfortunately,” said Bertram, adding that Ireland was not getting any “rub of the green” at this stage, adding: “But we’ve two great guys to come.”

Cian O’Connor and Chatolinue PS represent Ireland at the showjumping World Championships in Aachen (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Cian O’Connor revived hopes of Ireland making the World Championships team final with a clear on Chatolinue PS.

“He’s a strong heart and a very good character,” said Cian. “He’s always fighting with you, he’s very brave and he knows when it’s important and the more you encourage him and motivate him, the more he tries.

“I’ve only had him actually about 10 months, so we’re still a fairly young partnership.”

As the fourth line riders took to Aachen’s huge main arena, it became clear only a clear from anchorman Shane Sweetnam could keep Ireland above the cut for tomorrow night’s final. He and James Kann Cruz duly delivered and Ireland made the qualification zone to continue in the competition.

Shane said: “Halfway through the second round, it looked like maybe we weren’t even going to get the chance [to make it to the final round, even if Shane jumped clear] and then the way the poles fell [for other teams], it got us back into the running.

“We went from seventh down to 15th and then 15th back up to the top 10. So it was exciting that we were given that chance and thankfully we were able to deliver a clear round.”

Of the 13-year-old James Kann Cruz, Shane said: “He jumped amazing. From start to finish, he felt unbelievable. I don’t think he touched anything out there.”

Ireland sit on a score of 11.69 – just over two poles cover the 10 teams who will go forward to tomorrow night’s showdown, with leaders Germany on 3.48.

As well as medals, the chief prize on offer is Olympic qualification, given to the top seven teams excluding the USA, who automatically qualify for LA2028 as host nation.

World Showjumping Championships team standings

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
=3. Belgium 7.69
=3. Italy 7.69
5. Great Britain 8.98
6. France 8.99
7. Sweden 9.64
8. Switzerland 10.49
9. Denmark 11.57
10. Ireland 11.69

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Highs and lows for Britain in Aachen, as one showjumper shares his disappointment

Becky Murray — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:43:33 +0000

Great Britain secured its place in the team final during the showjumping World Championships second team qualifier today – but it was a mixed bag of emotions.

There was all to play for today as teams fought for a place in Friday night’s final, to which the top 10 go through. Great Britain was in overnight fifth after the first day, but the deal was far from done.

As per yesterday’s opening speed round, Ben Maher and the brilliant stallion Point Break were pathfinders for the Brits. The experienced pair made Frank Rothenberger’s track look relatively simple, and it was fault-less round, though Ben noted it “didn’t feel quite as smooth” as yesterday and he had to push a it more.

“That can happen in certain rounds. But it felt very good,” said Ben.

“He was making a lot of stride up early on, which is a good thing with him. They played a little bit with the distances in the course today and the hills, which affects him, a smaller striding horse, a bit more. So it’s my job to make sure that I give him the good ride to create what we need at the right time, and that's why perhaps it felt a little bit stronger riding today.

“But he jumped great. I don't think he touched a jump, and he felt very, very confident and forward, which is the biggest thing with him, ready for tomorrow I hope.”

Ben explained some of his stride choices, highlighting the upright at fence 2 and planks at fence 3.

“At two to three, I don’t get held up too much on really long distances, but he got there way easier than I thought. Then the next one was longer than I thought. This is what can happen with him,” he said.

Ben shared that he opted for seven strides from the double at 5ab to the oxer at fence 6, then a forward six strides to the upright over a water tray at fence 7, through the middle of the arena.

Gong into the triple combination fence 9abc Ben said the natural stride going down the hill was nine strides.

“But I just stayed out and did 10 strides to put him on his back end, and just help the scope and the balance,” he said, adding that as some had knocked the final vertical (fence 13), he added some power to his approach to the penultimate triple bar.

“It probably looked like I was riding the triple bar a little bit like the jump off fence, but that was on purpose. It was a bit of a free jump to create the rhythm, so I could sit up and trust his front end on the last. So it was a bit up and down what route we took with the plan, to be honest. But I guess it was the right plan.”

Harry Charles shares his disappointment

Harry Charles and 12-year-old mare LT Holst Freda were next out for the Brits. It was an overall lovely round from this new partnership, but the mare got a bit quick before fence 4, an oxer with a water tray, and they had it down.

Four-faults on paper is not a bad round in any sense, but in such a close competition where a place in the team final is on the line, Harry was naturally disappointed.

“It just wasn’t nearly good enough to be honest,” said Harry, following his round.

“The horse jumped amazing, I’ve just not been on it all week, so I’m really embarrassed and disappointed.”

Harry said the mistake followed from his jump over the planks at fence 3.

“She jumped a bit left on the plank. At any other show, your mind works quick and you adapt. You would put nine in, but I somehow was so stuck on the number, I chased on the eight,” he said.

“When you land that far away from the distance, it’s never going to be there. I wish I could tell you what went through my mind, but I just don’t know.”

Four-faults for Adrian Whiteway

Championship debutant Adrian Whiteway was next for the Brits with Chacco Volo. They too succumbed to four-faults, knocking the middle vertical of the treble combination, fence 9abc.

The 13-year-old gelding looked relaxed, not fazed by the atmosphere that grew throughout the day.

Adrian was very pleased with Chacco Volo.

“It was a really unfortunate one down, but he tried his absolute heart out for me,” said Adrian after his round.

“The combination was short, I knew that, I’ve been watching 110 horses all day. I was thinking: ‘I'm really going to need him to back up’.

“I jumped in and thought I jumped in well; I said ‘Whoa’ with my voice, my body, everything, but just ran out of room a little bit and he put a toe on it.”

Adrian had nothing but praise for his horse

“I’m very happy with him and how he’s jumping,” he said.

“He’s a legend. He just goes in there and eats it up. He takes everything in his stride, and just sort of helps me a bit and holds my hand.”

Great Britain secures place in showjumping World Championships team final

In the team competition the best three scores count, and with Harry and Adrian having four-faults each, this put the pressure on Scott Brash and Hello Mango. The Scotsman had to jump clear to secure Britain’s place in the final. Scott once again delivered under pressure in brilliant style to not only secure the team spot, but put himself into provisional individual gold.

Germany retained its provisional team gold thanks to fault-less performances from all four riders, while the USA moves into silver and Belgium is now in provisional bronze.

The medal-deciding team final takes place tomorrow evening at 5.50pm UK time (6.50pm German time).

In the individual standings Ben and Point Break are in equal fifth with Belgium’s Nicola Phillippaerts and Katanga v/h Dingeshof. Harry and LT Holst Freda are in 59th and Adrian and Chacco Volo are in 77th. Scores from tomorrow’s team final continue to tally up and the top 25 will move forward to Sunday’s individual final.

World Showjumping Championships team standings

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
=3. Belgium 7.69
=3. Italy 7.69
5. Great Britain 8.98
6. France 8.99
7. Sweden 9.64
8. Switzerland 10.49
9. Denmark 11.57
10. Ireland 11.69

World Showjumping Championships individual standings

1. Scott Brash (GBR) and Hello Mango 0.80
2. Sophie Hinners (GER) and Iron Dames Singclair 0.84
=3. Steve Guerdat (SUI) and Dynamix De Belheme 0.86
=3. Daniel Duesser (GER) and Otello De Guldenboom 0.86
=5. Ben Maher (GBR) and Point Break 1.01
=5. Nicola Phillippaerts (BEL) and Katanga v/h Dingeshof 1.01
7. Laura Kraut (USA) and Baloutine 1.06
8. Giulia Martinengo Marquet (ITA) and Delta Del'isle 1.13
9. Lillie Keenan (USA) and Fasther 1.17
10. Marcus Ehning (GER) and Coolio 42 1.78

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Germany keep team lead in showjumping World Championships, while other nations swap places

Pippa Roome — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:05:16 +0000

Germany retain the lead at the top of the showjumping World Championships team results after the action today (Thursday, 20 August).

Frank Rothenberger’s course for today’s first “Nations Cup” round proved relatively easy and there were 49 clear rounds inside the time. This meant those who did have a rail down were quite harshly punished in terms of slips down the leaderboard.

But there were no concerns for the German team, who secured their top spot with a rider to spare. Marcus Ehning led with a clear on Coolio 42, Sophie Hinners followed and was also fault-free on Iron Dames Singclair and Daniel Deusser confirmed the German lead position when he punched in a third clear on Otello De Guldenboom.

“I didn’t want to keep all the pressure for Richie [Vogel], so I thought it would be nice if I could jump a clear round. The teams are very close together, so it was important that we go into the last round as a leading team tomorrow,” said Daniel, who shares fourth in the individual standings with Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat on his Paris 2024 individual silver medallist Dynamix De Belheme.

Talking about the stride patterns around the course, Daniel added: "I changed my decisions approximately 25 times today. I walked the course at 7.50am and to be honest, that time I walked it exactly like I rode it now.

“In between, I saw a lot of people do six after the green double [fence 5ab]. I thought the six looked easy, I could do the six as well. Then just before I got on the horse, I saw a couple go in seven. I said ‘Actually, I’d better ride it like I walked this morning, don’t be influenced by anyone else’, and luckily it worked out like that.”

Sophie Hinners holds second individually on Iron Dames Singclair, behind Britain’s Scott Brash and Hello Mango.

“Iron Dames Singclair is very special to me. I got him when he was at the end of his eight-year-old year. He’s 11 now and we stepped up together to this level,” said Sophie.

“When we got him, we did not really expect that he would be such a dream horse, that he could jump such big classes. When you see him, he’s quite small and then he just goes in and jumps a track like this.

“He always wants to do his best, and he is always fighting for me.”

Germany’s fourth combination, European champions Richard Vogel and United Touch S, also jumped clear so the squad looks in great shape ahead of tomorrow’s team final. Richard started the event as the favourite and now sits 23rd. He is less than a fence behind British leader Scott Brash but there are a lot of combinations between him and gold position.

Ireland’s Cian O’Connor said today the format for championships might need re-examining.

He said: “There was no point in going for a slow clear yesterday and we’d probably prefer a little bit more meat on the bone with these courses, a bit more of a scope test because you have some really good professionals just being unlucky and nicking a rail, and then you have a lot weaker pairs jumping the clear. We have to cater for everybody. But I think that probably needs looking at for future championships.”

USA and Belgium swap spots

The USA moved up from third after the speed leg to second following today’s class.

Again, they secured their spot before anchor rider McLain Ward had entered the arena, as Laura Kraut (Baloutinue), Katie Dinan (Out Of The Blue SCF) and Lillie Keenan (Fasther) all jumped clear.

Katie Dinan spoke about how she put a disappointing round yesterday behind her and came back with a clear.

Katie said: “Yesterday I knew what my mistake was and I really tried just to focus on today being a new day – my horse is in form, so I didn’t have to worry about that –and just making a plan when I walked the course and riding her like I know how, riding her the way that got us selected for the team. I was disappointed yesterday because that wasn’t the performance we had.

“But luckily, my three teammates were very good yesterday so I could come back today. My horse was so phenomenal and I knew after we jumped the first two jumps she was right there with me. I just needed to give her the guidance she deserves and I felt like we were both fighting for the clear round.”

Katie Dinan and Out Of The Blue SCF represent the US at the showjumping World Championships in Aachen (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Lillie said: “Jumping a speed round with Fasther, especially in the beginning of the week like yesterday, can be a little bit challenging because he likes to take over, and it’s not just Fasther’s belief that he knows a lot better than I do – he is absolutely firm in knowing that. So I have to be a bit creative and trust our partnership and trust him.

“Today he really reminded me how incredibly special he is in every single way – his personality, but also his ability. He does things that the laws of physics would say are impossible and I'm just really, really lucky to have him as my partner.”

Nicola Phillippaerts and Katanga Van Het Dingeshof jump clears on both the first two days of the showjumping World Championships in Aachen (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

Nicola Phillippaerts punched in a pathfinder clear for Belgium with Katanga Van Het Dingeshof, but Pieter Devos (Casual DV Z) had eight faults, then Thibeau Spits knocked the last with Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z. It came down to Abdel Saïd, competing in his first World Championships for Belgium after two representing Egypt, to keep his team in a podium spot.

“It’s hard with all this pressure and I was thinking ‘Okay, it has to stop with me, the pressure, not go on my horse.’ But I just felt him go one, two, three and then he just relaxed, and it was like okay, we’re going to bring it home,” said Abdel after his round with Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z.

Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del’Isle blaze the trail for Italy at the showjumping World Championships in Aachen. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamain Clark)

Belgium now share third with Italy, who made a leap today from eighth after yesterday’s speed leg.

Giulia Martinengo Marquet on Delta Del’Isle, Emanuele Camilli with Chacareno PS and Piergiogio Bucco on Hantano all jumped fault-free rounds today to move Italy up the ranks.

World Championships team results on Thursday: qualifiers for Friday’s final

1. Germany (Marcus Ehning, Sophie Hinners, Daniel Deusser) 3.48
2. USA (Laura Kraut, Katie Dinan, Lillie Keenan, McLain Ward) 4.85
3eq. Belgium (Nicola Phillippaerts, Pieter Devos, Thibeau Spits, Abdel Saïd)
3eq. Italy (Giulia Martinengo Marquet, Emanuele Camilli, Giacomo Casadel, Piergiogio Bucco) 7.69
5. Great Britain (Ben Maher, Harry Charles, Adrian Whiteway, Scott Brash) 8.98
6. France (Nina Mallevaey, Olivier Perreau, Antoine Ermann, Julien Epaillard) 8.99
7. Sweden (Petronella Andresson, Henrik von Eckermann, Wilma McMahon, Peder Fredricson) 9.64
8. Switzerland (Steve Guerdat, Martin Fuchs, Gaëtan Joliat, Jason Smith) 10.49
9. Denmark (Zascha Nygaard, Laura Baaring Kjaergaard, Caroline Rehoff Pedersen, Andreas Schou) 11.57
10. Ireland (Darragh Kenny, Bertram Allen, Cian O’Connor, Shane Sweetnam) 11.69

Full results

World Championships team results on Thursday: individual standings

1. Scott Brash (GBR) on Hello Mango 0.8
2. Sophie Hinners (GER) on Iron Dames Singclair 0.84
3eq. Steve Guerdat (SUI) on Dynamix De Belheme 0.86
3eq. Daniel Deusser (GER) on Otello De Guldenboom 0.86
5. Ben Maher (GBR) on Point Break 1.01
6. Nicola Phillippaerts (BEL) on Katanga Van Het Dingeshof
7. Laura Kraut (USA) on Baloutinue 1.06
8. Giulia Martinengo Marquet (ITA) on Delta Del’Isle 1.13
9. Lillie Keenan (USA) on Fasther 1.17
10. Marcus Ehning (GER) on Coolio 42 1.78

Full results

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Delight as Scott Brash secures Great Britain’s team final place in Aachen – and moves into individual gold

Becky Murray — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:47:48 +0000

Ice cool Scott Brash delivered another epic clear for Great Britain in the showjumping World Championships second team and individual qualifier today – and the Scotsman now lies in provisional individual gold.

The second day of competition at the Aachen World Championships provided more highs and lows, as teams battled for a spot in the medal-deciding final tomorrow (Friday, 21 August). Only the top 10 countries return and places were far from secure for many.

Ben Maher and Point Break were once again British pathfinders and put the first clear on the board for their country. Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda were next, followed by Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo, both having four-faults apiece.

To secure a place in the team final anchor Scott and championship debutant Hello Mango needed to jump clear. The pair showed no sign of pressure as they navigated Frank Rothenberger’s track, and they came home with the goods.

“I’m just delighted with Mango, I thought she jumped incredible,” said Scott.

“In the warm-up she felt a little bit more tense today. There's just a bit more atmosphere going on, and she went quick yesterday, so maybe that's why. But when she went in the ring, she was absolutely fantastic.”

After yesterday’s opening round Scott was lying in provisional bronze, behind Harrie Smolders (NED) in silver and Frenchman Julien Epaillard in gold. However both riders had poles, paving the way for Scott. He now lies in provisional individual gold. Tomorrow’s final team round will count towards the individual final on Sunday.

“It’s amazing, but I’m under no illusions, there’s a long way to go,” said Scott.

“There’s a lot of jumping to go and big tests to come, so we’ll take each day as it comes. But I’m sure happy with Mango and looking forward to the rest of the week.”

Frank Rothenberger’s track today featured 1.65m verticals, a one-stride double (five 5ab), treble combination (fence 9abc), and a triple bar (fence 12). There were 49 clears inside the time from 135 starters.

Scott Brash on the showjumping World Championships second team qualifier course

“The course rode quite good, that’s why there were so many clears,” said Scott.

“But it was big, the verticals were at the top of the wings, there’s no holes left. The horses jump very good in this ring and I think it shows what standard we’ve got here.”

Scott might have shown no signs of pressure, but he acknowledges it was there.

“It’s always hard when there’s been quite a few clears. One mistake and you can be out, so the pressure comes on,” he said.

“You know what you’re in there to do; you’re in there to do your job and jump a clear round and thankfully we’ve done that.”

“I’m just delighted with Mango, she jumped incredible”
Scott Brash

As one of the final riders to jump today, Scott had a long wait.

“I didn’t rush around too much this morning. I got Mango out earlier and stretched her legs. She’s been great,” he said.

“I watched some, went away and had some lunch and chilled out, then got geared up for this afternoon.”

Great Britain is in overnight fifth. The medal-deciding team final takes place tomorrow evening at 5.50pm UK time (6.50pm UK time). The top 60 individual riders will also jump, ahead of Sunday’s individual final.

World Showjumping Championships team standings

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
=3. Belgium 7.69
=3. Italy 7.69
5. Great Britain 8.98
6. France 8.99
7. Sweden 9.64
8. Switzerland 10.49
9. Denmark 11.57
10. Ireland 11.69

World Showjumping Championships individual standings

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‘A 10 out of 10’: Ben Maher on his super stallion’s opening round at the showjumping World Championships – but work to be done in team standings

Becky Murray — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:51:58 +0000

Ben Maher got Britain off to a solid start in the team and individual qualifier on the first day of the showjumping World Championships.

Ben and Point Break were first up for the team and the fifth of 145 starters to contest course-designer Frank Rothenberger’s tricky track.

Ben and the 12-year-old stallion started as they meant to go on, with a strong angle to the first fence, a big vertical. They got a little close to the first double, fence 3ab, and took a bold tight turn to the wavy planks at fence 4, but this paid off when they stopped the clock almost two seconds quicker than Germany’s Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42. Marcus had the unenviable task of being drawn first of the day.

Ben was thrilled with Point Break.

“For him that was a 10 out of 10. I don’t say that very often,” said Ben.

“We can always do things better, but it was very important for me this week to get a rolling start with him to put us in a good start for the team today, but also so he’s really confident for when the jumps get bigger and wider later on in the week.

“A key factor with him is that he’s relaxed, very still with his head and taking a great stride. That happened today, allowing me to put him exactly where I wanted to be.”

Ben is used to going out first on team occasions and delivering under pressure.

“I do always go out first for the team. I switched for Hickstead, just given it was a different team and I had more experience that time,” he explained.

“Sometimes at the championships we switch around a bit the first day, but Point Break is a bit of a unique horse in that I can only do what I can do. If I sit here watching 40 or 100 horses go, I start trying to do something I can’t to get ahead. He needs the slightly firmer ground, and my plan didn’t change.”

Ben likened Point Break’s athleticism to “a rubber ball”.

“That gives good and bad points to his jump; sometimes he can throw a very elastic jump and land further or shorter away and I still don't always know exactly where we end up,” said Ben.

“Today I was planning 10 strides to the wall (fence 7), and he was travelling so relaxed that I managed to do one less and take nine. That’s all Scott (Brash) kept telling me before we went in, have a plan, but have a plan B or C. Fortunately everything went to plan A.”

Ben said it was a nice first course for the horses.

“It’s difficult for course builders here with this many horses,” he said. “It’s very fair, not too big, but I’m sure it will get progressively difficult as the week goes on.”

Harry Charles: “Freda was amazing”

Harry Charles was next out for the Brits with the relatively new ride, LT Holst Freda. A clear looked to be on the horizon but a risk to the blue oxer at 12a where they turned a little tight, didn’t pay off and the poles fell. In this speed competition, knocked poles add four seconds to the clock, so they finished on a total of 75.83sec.

“I’m very happy, Freda was amazing,” said Harry, who has only been riding the mare for a few months.

“It’s a big atmosphere to step into, our partnership is not super experienced together, but she’s plenty experienced and I have a little bit too. It’s great to get that one out the way.”

Harry Charles has only been riding LT Holst Freda for a few months (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Harry said the pole down was “completely my own fault”, having changed his plan before fence 11 that resulted in him taking a stride less as he travelled round to the oxer at 12a.

“I would have loved to be clear, so I'm a little bit disappointed in myself, but on the whole, I’m very happy,” he said.

“Everything was just coming so nice, and I decided my plan was to go six down that second-to-last line. But just before take off on the oxer (fence 11), I thought I'll do five, and she got the five easy. Then I just probably turned in a stride less than I should have.

“She just has so much scope. On a normal horse, you come around to that oxer (fence 12a) and your natural instinct is to put a bit of leg on, and I did, and just maybe rode her through the front rail a bit. She nicked it behind. I should have just sat quiet and let her do the work.”

Harry has had to get to know Freda quickly during their short time together.

“I've never had a horse get to know me, or me get to know one so well, so quickly, and have straight out of the box success. It’s a pretty new feeling,” said Harry.

“The aim was always to come here with Los Angeles qualification in mind, so just to be part of the team really was the main focus. Then I started to get to know how special she is, maybe we could do more than just qualify. We have three great riders also on the team here so expectations are high. She’s good enough, and so I have just got to keep going and jump a couple of clears now.”

Adrian Whiteway’s championships debut

Scott Brash was next for the Brits and shot into the lead with Hello Mango during the third session.

Then it was down to anchor combination Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo. The pair, making their championships debut, had a rather steady round, a time of 79.51sec. They had a pole down at fence 9a – the first part of the double over a water tray – to finish on 83.51sec.

Adrian said he was “very happy” with the 13-year-old Chacco Blue stallion.

“I was in a very fortunate position that the guys in front of me have all done amazing, so it took the pressure off me,” he said.

“He's not a fast horse, and we know that. He's more important for tomorrow (Thursday 20 August) and Friday. Today was just about putting in a good performance, showing him the ring, and keeping him happy, ready to go tomorrow.”

Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo are making their championship debut for Britain in Aachen (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Adrian was another to blame his blip on himself.

“He has jumped lots of doubles of waters, but it looked pretty spooky to me. I thought ‘Oh’, and maybe I just put a little bit too much leg on and he just touched the front rail,” explained Adrian.

“It’s really unlucky, but hopefully it’ll set me up in good stead for tomorrow.”

Adrian is making championship debut here in Aachen, having been a key part of recent Nations Cup teams.

“There was a little mutter last year after competing here at the Nations Cup that if everything went well it could happen,” he said.

“It still felt a long way away, but he’s been consistent all year from double clear to double clear. It was a dream come true to get the call up.”

Adrian has had the ride on Chacco Volo since a four-year-old.

“We’ve done everything together, so that makes it a little bit more special. I know him inside out,” he said.

“He always tries for me. Touch wood, if I ride him well, he goes well – so the pressure is always on me, not him really. I don’t want to let him down.”

Each rider’s score from today is converted via a coefficient into points. Two rounds of team jumping then follow, with the top 10 teams from Thursday’s (19 August) competition progressing to Friday’s (21 August) medal-deciding final. The top 60 individual riders also compete.

At the end of the opening day, Great Britain is in fourth with a score of 4.98.

World Showjumping Championships: day one results

Top five team standings:

Germany 3.48
Belgium 3.69
USA 4.85
Great Britain 4.98
France 4.99

The top five individual standings:

Julien Epaillard (FRA) and Fringan De Vesquerie 0
Harrie Smolders (NED) and Mr Tac 0.68
Scott Brash (GBR) and Hello Mango 0.80
Sophie Hinners (GER) and Iron Dames Singclair 0.84
Steve Guerdat (SUI) and Dynamix De Belheme 0.86

Ben Maher and Point Break are currently eighth on 1.01. Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda are 44th on 3.17 and Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo are lying 87th on 6.46.

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Speed demon leads showjumping World Championships as favourites face a disappointing start

Pippa Roome — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:22:12 +0000

Fast Frenchman Julien Epaillard leads the showjumping World Championships results after the speed leg in Aachen today.

Riding the 11-year-old chestnut Fringan De Vesquerie, Julien whisked round the course more than a second quicker than the next clear round to take the early advantage.

“I’m getting slower every day and younger riders are getting faster!” said the 49-year-old, who put his speed down to working on communication with his horses so they respond to his body movements.

Julien said this horse is relatively inexperienced and he is focusing very much on the team result first, with France sitting fifth at this stage.

“My horse has a lot of blood. He’s very focused on the surroundings, so it’s not always easy to have him focus on the fences and to use his energy with me,” he said.

“He has a lot of personality, but it’s why he’s a super horse – because he is very curious, looking for everything, and it’s really nice to work him every day. Every day is different.”

Julien said although his round was smooth, the stride patterns didn’t quite work out as he expected over Frank Rothenberger’s track.

He explained: “I planned to do nine to the wall at fence seven and eight after to the oxer, but the five strides to the oxer before the wall were very long. I had to put on a lot of pressure, so I felt my horse really open up. So after that I decided to change my plan and collect a little bit for the wall and for the oxer before the double of verticals.”

Today’s track was the easiest we can expect to see this week on the jumping side and there were more than 50 clear rounds from a whopping start list of 145. Jumping penalties were converted to seconds to give the results.

As the leader, Julien now sits on zero, with the difference between his time and that of each rider behind him halved to give each rider a score to carry forward into tomorrow’s competition.

Harrie Smolders holds second, on Mr. Tac, and is best-placed of the Dutch team in sixth.

“Mr. Tac did exactly what we were thinking according to the plan – we had three solid rounds for the team by the time I went in, so I could take a bit more risk,” he said.

“Mr Tac was also here in May, to practise, but now he was more confident in the ring. He stayed more on the track and had a very solid, smooth round.”

Harrie added that the Dutch are in a rebuilding phase and have struggled with horsepower this year. Their first aim is to qualify for Friday night’s team final, by being in the top 10 teams, and their second to gain an Olympic ticket, on offer to the top seven teams here excluding the USA, who qualify automatically as hosts.

Britain’s Scott Brash sits third individually and leads the British team to the fourth position at this early stage.

World Championships speed leg results: Germany lead

Germany lead the team standings, with Sophie Hinners fourth individually on Iron Dames Singclair.

“We know that his stride is not the biggest, so we really used our route and turns to do the right thing without over rushing him,” said Sophie.

“He was also so focused. I know sometimes the left turns can be a little bit more difficult and the last line went to the left away from the in gate. I saw some horses slipping there already and he stayed so calm and focused – I was so happy how he did that today. So I was really proud of him.”

Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair en route to finishing fourth in the World Championships speed leg in Aachen (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Belgium hold second, led by Nicola Philippaerts in eighth on Katanga Van Het Dingeshof.

The USA currently sit in bronze position as a team, their effort spearheaded by pathfinder Laura Kraut on Paris 2024 team silver medallist Baloutinue in 11th.

“I’m just thrilled. I think it was hard to go sixth – I’d wanted to go early, but not that early,” she said. ”My horse was just brilliant. He just answered every question perfectly. He knew why he was in there.

“I couldn't have asked more of him and I’m really excited that I get to enjoy the rest of the day now,” added Laura, who swapped in her Olympic medallist when intended ride Bisquetta suffered a “tiny injury”.

“She’s 12 years old and has a lot of front of her. This is going to be a difficult week and I thought I’m better to conserve and take care of her 100%. I’m one of the luckiest people in the world because I don’t think many people have a back-up that’s as strong as Baloutinue. So it was an easy decision to look after her and bring him in.”

Faults for big names

A number of big names had fences down today, putting them on the back foot as they move forward through this championship.

Ireland’s Shane Sweetnam sits 26th on James Kann Cruz, who had down the oxer into the blue double at fence 12. His time would have put him in second without the rolled pole. Shane had to contend with riding at the end of the day when it was raining heavily.

“Conditions obviously were a little bit harder, but I was in around the time I wanted to be. It was just a cheap rail coming home cost us a little bit, but he jumped really well,” he said.

“I tried to stay tight in the turn back to that double, so maybe he didn’t get a good view. But that’s the thing with speed classes and it was a very slight touch – but touched the wrong way.”

The Irish team share seventh with Italy, counting scores from Bertram Allen (18th on Qonquest De Rigo), Shane (26th) and Darragh Kenny (50th on Eddy Blue).

Germany’s European champion and title favourite Richard Vogel had the upright at fence 11 down with United Touch S.

He explained: “I am quite disappointed with myself. I should have done five strides from that oxer to the vertical and I added up on six. I was just way too deep on that vertical and I gave my horse no chance to clear it. So it was quite disappointing from my side, but nevertheless, he jumped incredibly.”

While Steve Guerdat sits fifth for Switzerland on Dynamix De Belheme, his compatriot Martin Fuchs and Conner Jei took the back rail off the oxer into the white, green and red double at fence 3a.

“I probably went a little bit too much out and gave him too much space there [so he was too far from the fence], and he didn't really understand what I was asking from him,” said Martin.

“After that, I had to ride quite forward and then he was fantastic in the second half of the course – really in front of me, really pulling and going and playing with me.

“It’s always difficult the first day. So my tactic was to to have a nice, fluent, quick round, which obviously I changed after the big mistake I had at 3a. Then I just tried to play it more safe and didn’t leave out strides.

“Obviously, I would have wished for a better start, but there are many days to come and it’s not a catastrophic result.”

Switzerland hold 13th at this stage.

All teams and individuals jump again tomorrow (Thursday), with the top 10 teams and the top 60 individuals progressing to Friday’s team final.

World Championships speed leg results

Individual

1. Julien Epaillard (FRA) on Fringan De Vesquerie 0
2. Harrie Smolders (NED) on Mr. Tac 0.68
3. Scott Brash (GBR) on Hello Mango 0.8
4. Sophie Hinners (GER) on Iron Dames Singclair 0.84
5=. Steve Guerdat (SUI) on Dynamix De Belheme 0.86
5=. Daniel Deusser (GER) on Otello De Guldenboom 0.86
7. Mark Bluman (ISR) on Landon De Nyze 0.95
8. Ben Maher (GBR) on Point Break 1.01

Full results

Team

1. Germany (Marcus Ehning, Sophie Hinners, Daniel Deusser, Richard Vogel) 3.48
2. Belgium (Abdel Saïd, Pieter Devos, Nicola Phillippaerts, Thibeau Spits) 3.69
3. USA (Laura Kraut, McLain Ward, Lillie Keenan, Katie Dinan) 4.85
4. Great Britain (Ben Maher, Harry Charles, Scott Brash, Adrian Whiteway) 4.98
5. France (Nina Mallevaey, Olivier Perreau, Antoine Ermann, Julien Epaillard) 4.99
6. Netherlands (Michael Greeve, Bas Moerings, Willem Greve, Harrie Smolders) 5.08
7=. Italy (Emanuele Camilli, Giacomo Casadei, Giulia Martinengo Marquet, Piergiorgio Bucci) 7.69
7=. Ireland (Darragh Kenny, Bertram Allen, Cian O’Connor, Shane Sweetnam) 7.69

Full results

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‘She has everything you need to win a championship’: Scott Brash delivers standout opening round in Aachen

Becky Murray — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:44:13 +0000

Scott Brash got his showjumping World Championships campaign off to an incredible start in the team and individual qualifier, finishing third on the opening day.

The first competition is a speed round; knocked poles add four seconds to the clock. Faults are not given for refusals, but time mounts up as combinations re-present after a stop.

Scott was the third Brit to tackle Frank Rothenberger’s 13-fence track and he soared straight to the top of the leaderboard with Hello Mango during the third session of the day.

The Scotsman’s clear round looked effortless with the talented 11-year-old grey mare, who is making her championship debut at the Aachen World Championships. Mango was looking for the fences the whole way round and they stopped the clock on 72.19sec, nine hundredths of a second faster than Germany’s Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair, who had taken an early lead.

Scott said he was “delighted” following his round.

“Mango’s been fantastic, she jumped phenomenal and answered every question. I’m super happy to get a round under our belt,” he said.

It’s a tricky balance of getting a quick round on the first day, but not taking too much risk – a task Scott nailed perfectly.

“You’ve still got to ride the plan that you think is suitable for your horse. You can’t do something that your horse is not capable of, you’ve got to just stay focused on that round, not get too caught up in what everyone else is doing,” he said.

“But we've been working Mango towards this championship for a long time, and I’ve always thought she’s a championship horse, so it was always going to be trying to put in a quick round on day one. It’s nice to get it done and be up amongst the leaders.”

Scott has rated Mango since he started riding her four years ago.

“When I sat on her as a seven-year-old I thought she had the ingredients to be a championship horse. We’ve taken our time and produced her slowly,” he said.

“I think she has all the attributes to win anything. Maybe a year or two ago she wouldn’t have been able to do this quick round and still stay calm, she's a sharp mare, but now she has the experience.

“She’s just developed into a really cool horse. I can go quick and stay in control and do what I need to do to give her the best possible chance of jumping clear. So that’s a great feeling. She’s super smart; she has everything that I think you need to win a championship.”

Scott is under no illusion that there is still plenty to do over the week.

“Obviously it’s just good to get day one done and feel that she’s in great shape and jumping well. There’s a lot of jumping to go,” he said.

“There’ll be a lot of difficult questions to be answered along the week, but it’s nice to be up amongst the first few, and we’ve got a chance after day one. That’s all you can ask for. I’ll just keep trying to make the right plan for her, and I’m sure she’ll keep jumping at her best.”

As the fourth final session concluded this afternoon Scott and Mango finished the day in third place. Harrie Smolders and Mr Tac sat second on 71.96sec, and the flying Frenchman Julien Epaillard and Fringan De Vesquerie led on 70.60sec.

Sunday’s (23 August) individual final consists of two rounds, the first for the 25 best placed horses and riders after the first three legs of competition, with the top 12 then qualifying for the medal-deciding round two.

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‘The events crossed every line regarding ethics, respect and sportsmanship’: team rider withdraws from world championships after management dispute

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:12:11 +0000

Brazilian showjumper Yuri Mansur has withdrawn from this week’s World Showjumping Championships in Aachen after a dispute with the management team which, he said, “crossed every line regarding ethics, respect, and sportsmanship”.

The 47-year-old Netherlands-based rider and his 19-year-old gelding QH Alfons Santo Antonio were due to travel to the championships as part of Brazil’s five-man squad for the championships, which started today (19 August).

But on Sunday (16 August) the double Olympian discovered that he had been replaced as one of the four riders selected to compete.

“With the right conversation, the right explanation, I would not have liked that decision, but I would accept it,” Yuri told H&H. “The problem was that nobody told me.”

Yuri claims that on Saturday, he was told, unofficially, he had been selected as one of the four team riders set to jump in Aachen. But, in a meeting that night, the management team brought in a new combination that wasn’t included in the nation’s list of definite entries submitted on 27 July.

“In that moment, they broke the rules that they had created for everybody and changed something that had already been decided,” said Yuri, who says that he only found out by chance after “calling the trainer about something else”. “For me, that was the most disrespectful act someone did in all my career.”

According to Yuri, this incident was the culmination of a series of ongoing problems with the Brazilian management team, leading him to make the “difficult” decision to withdraw from the showjumping World Championships and no longer be available to represent Brazil in Nations Cup competitions.

“That was the last step in a process that has been really hard for me over the past 10 years - what happened on Sunday crossed all those limits,” Yuri told H&H. “I fought to do what I love and to represent my country because if there’s something that really honours me, it is to be Brazilian and to represent my country. But when, every time, you have to go against the things you believe in, the things you value, and see so many things that could - and should - be better, it is not easy.”

Yuri Mansur’s World Championships statement

In Yuri’s full statement posted on social media on 16 August, he claimed he has had “deplorable treatment” from the Brazilian management team, including being “blackmailed and mistreated”.

The statement reads: “After more than a decade since arriving in Europe and after a long period of my life dedicated to personal growth and to honoring and representing my country I faced the worst episode of this journey today. Not that these years have been easy, far from it. I’ve had to contend with so much incompetence, a lack of capable leadership, power struggles among the athletes themselves, a total lack of commitment to what truly matters, and an absence of unity or a winning mentality. Every year, the process and the result are the same: fighting, insults, deliberate lack of communication, a lack of honest rules and procedures, favoritism, and no results…”

The statement continues: “Of course, some of us have achieved remarkable and incredible results over the years, but as a team... it’s always the same story: “almost there”.

“I received the most deplorable treatment from this management team, the worst I have ever witnessed. I was blackmailed and mistreated. Yet, I pressed on and gave my all for this country.

“But the events of this Sunday, August 16, 2026, crossed every line regarding ethics, respect, and sportsmanship. That is why, with great sadness, I am announcing a difficult decision. As of today, I will no longer represent Brazil in championships or Nations Cups.

To all the athletes heading to the World Championship to represent Brazil, I sincerely wish you the best of luck. I’ll be rooting for you!

“As for this management team, I feel nothing but pity.”

Brazilian federation responds

In a statement aimed at “clarifying the circumstances surrounding the final team selection”, the Brazilian federation (CBH) said the final decision was made after the training camp and assessment of the combinations.

The statement said seven riders were initially named from whom the five-man Aachen squad would be named, in the standard practice the federation said was known to all parties from the start.

“The final team composition remained subject to the outcome of the training camp in Aachen from 11 to 16 August 2026, during which the rider-and-horse combinations were monitored and assessed by the technical staff,” the statement said.

“Until the final decision was made, any of the five combinations participating in the training camp could have been nominated to compete. Accordingly, no rider had been guaranteed a place on the competing team, nor had the reserve position been determined in advance.”

The statement said the final decision was made by international coach Franke Sloothaak and his team, “based exclusively on technical criteria and with the objective of identifying the team they considered best suited to represent Brazil at the World Championships”.

“The decision was particularly difficult given the high and closely matched technical standard of the riders involved,” it added.

“Following the communication of the proposed team composition, Yuri Mansur decided to leave the training centre. The CBH respects the athlete’s decision. As a result of his departure, it became necessary to call upon one of the riders previously identified as an alternate, and Pedro Muylaert was subsequently included in the Brazilian squad.

“The CBH emphasises that the athlete communicated his decision before the definitive nomination of the riders, a process formalised only after the official training session and team familiarisation in Aachen. Had Yuri Mansur chosen to remain, he would have continued as a member of the Brazilian delegation.

“Technical decisions are an inherent part of every sporting season, just as an athlete’s decision to pursue a different path is entirely legitimate. The CBH regrets the outcome, thanks Yuri Mansur for his successful career and contributions to the Brazilian team, and wishes him every success in this new stage of his career.

”The CBH, its technical staff and the entire delegation are now fully focused on Aachen and on the work currently under way. With confident athletes, a committed team and the strong support of Brazilian fans, the delegation looks forward to achieving excellent results for Brazil in the coming days of competition.”

The five combinations in Aachen representing Brazil are Stephan De Freitas Barcha (Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio), Luciana Diniz (Vertigo Du Desert), Pedro Junqueira Muylaert (Gemme Villers), Marlon Modolo Zanotelli (Dorette OLD) and Rodrigo Pessoa (Major Tom).

To stay up to date with the latest news and reports throughout the World Championships, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

All the showjumping World Championships live news as it happens

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 07:44:54 +0000

Welcome to Horse & Hound’s live reports from the showjumping World Championships in Aachen. We will be bringing you all the news you need to know as it happens. The competition kicks off on Wednesday 19 August with the opening speed leg, followed by two rounds of team competition on 20-21 August, with the individual final on Sunday 23 August.

Our magazine editor Pippa Roome will be in the Aachen mixed zone interviewing the riders after their rounds, so if you want to know their initial reactions to their performances at the showjumping World Championships, we are here to bring that straight to you.

Pippa will be supported by H&H team members back in the UK, including our showjumping editor Jennifer Donald, alongside Becky Murray and Eleanor Jones, who frequently report from major showjumping competitions. They will be following the live stream and sharing useful insights and analysis of the action, so we look forward to sharing the highs and lows of the 2026 FEI World Championships with you here.

Useful links:

August 19, 2026 – 3:21 AM

Wednesday 19 August: showjumping team and individual qualifier

Good morning! This is Becky Murray, H&H senior news writer. The showjumping gets under way in Aachen today and I'll be reporting on the live action as it unfolds.

Today's opening competition is the team and individual qualifier, a speed round against the clock. 145 combinations will tackle Frank Rothenberger's track.

The first rider to go will be Germany's Marcus Ehning with Coolio 42, at 8.30am UK time (9.30am German time).

August 19, 2026 – 3:38 AM

It was a clear round from Germany's pathfinder Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42, part of the gold medal squad at the 2025 Europeans. They stopped the clock on 74.16sec.

It's all about time in this first round competition. A fence down adds four seconds, but a stop does not accrue penalties, only the extra time it takes to approach again.

August 19, 2026 – 3:41 AM

Check out Frank Rothenberger's track.

(Image credit: FEI)

August 19, 2026 – 3:48 AM

Ben Maher and Point Break – clear on 72.61sec.

Ben Maher has got Britain’s campaign under way with the superb stallion Point Break. Ben meant business taking a strong angle to the firs, a big vertical. They got a little close to the first double and they took a bold tight turn to the wavy planks, but the fences stayed up and they shaved almost two seconds off of Marcus and Coolio 42’s time.

August 19, 2026 – 3:52 AM

The course is riding well, five clears from seven combinations – including Laura Kraut and Baloutine for the USA. They are just 11th hundreths of a second behind current leaders Ben Maher and Point Break.

August 19, 2026 – 4:04 AM

Denmark’s Zascha Nygaard and Com’on Droko De Maugre were having a lovely round but parted company after a messy jump through the last. Amazingly they made it through the timer before Zascha came off and so their score counts. They had four faults to finish on 80.59.

August 19, 2026 – 4:09 AM

A pleased Marcus Ehning said Coolio “felt great”.

“Coolio is in really good shape, he gives me a lot of confidence,” said Marcus.

“I had quite a solid round. Maybe I could do one less to the last, but it’s not so easy to start first in the speed class and not see anyone jump before. But the way he jumped, I’m more than happy.”

Marcus had positive things to say about the track.

“The course felt great. We will see now over time,” he said.

“There are already a few clear rounds. I think a couple are already faster than I am, but we will see what my team members do. The pressure is on!”

August 19, 2026 – 4:14 AM

A stride miscommunication between Finland's Annina Nordstrom and Fuzhou at the double at 12ab resulted in a fall for Annina at the second part. Both walked away, but this is elimination for the pair.

August 19, 2026 – 4:20 AM

Nina Mallevaey and Dynastie De Beaufour have given France a good start. The pair add nothing to their 74.46sec, the fourth fastest time at this early stage. Ben Maher and Point Break are still the quickest on 72.61sec.

August 19, 2026 – 4:31 AM

Ben Maher has discussed his super opening round…

“For him that was a 10 out of 10. I don't say that very often,” aid Ben.

“We can always do things better, but it was very important for me this week to get a rolling start with him so he's really confident to put us in a good start for the team today, but also so he's confident for when the jumps get bigger and wider later on in the week.

“A key factor with him is that he's relaxed, he's very still with his head and he’s taking a great stride. That happened today, allowing me to put him exactly where I wanted to be.”

Ben said Point Break is “like a rubber ball”.

“That gives good and bad points to his jump; sometimes he can throw a very elastic jump and land further or shorter away and I still don't always know exactly where we end up,” said Ben.

“Today I was planning 10 strides to the wall, and he was travelling so relaxed that I managed to do one less and take nine. That’s all Scott (Brash) kept telling me before we went in, have a plan, but have a plan B or C. Fortunately everything went to plan A.”

Ben said it was a nice first course for the horses.

“It’s difficult for course builders here with this many horses,” he said.

“It’s very fair, not too big, but I’m sure it will get progressively difficult as the week goes on.”

August 19, 2026 – 4:35 AM

Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs had a job on his hands curbing Conner Jei’s enthusiasm, who was giving the fences plenty of air. The pair had the first part of the double 3ab down, adding a frustrating four seconds to their time to finish on 80.64. It’s a fine line between making up time when they have pole down, and giving the fences the respect needed so no more faults occur. Martin jumped the rest clear, but his teammates will be hoping to improve on this.

August 19, 2026 – 4:42 AM

A very fast looking round from Egypt's Nayel Nassar and ESI Ali. The pair were really covering the ground between the fences, and they thundered down to the last, but they slot into third on 73.41sec. It highlights just how quick Ben Maher and Point Break were with those sharp turns really paying off.

August 19, 2026 – 4:49 AM

Petronella Andersson and Odina Van Klapscheut have got things under way for defending world champions Sweden. It was a frustrating early four-faults at the second fence, but Petronella used the 12-year-old mare’s athleticism to keep the pace up.

A reminder that a pole down equates to four seconds added to the clock. This means they finish on 76.76sec, into 10th at this stage.

August 19, 2026 – 4:58 AM

We have seen our quickest round so far, from Spain’s Armando Trapote and Tornado VS, who stopped the clock on 71.73. However, the pair had two poles down and so those eight-faults add eight seconds to the clock, giving them a final 79.73. This puts them down in 13th.

August 19, 2026 – 5:01 AM

A blow for Brazil. Marlon Modolo Zanotelli and Dorette OLD are eliminated after not jumping through the flags at the skinny wall, fence 7. They just veered to the left slightly, putting them outside the flag.

August 19, 2026 – 5:08 AM

First out for Ireland Darragh Kenny and the experienced Eddy Blue tap the oxer at fence 8 for four-faults. This gives them a final time of 78.02 and puts them into 14th at this stage.

August 19, 2026 – 5:13 AM

Disappointment for Japan. The team is down to three riders following the elimination of Takasha Haase Shibayama and Karamell M&M. The pair had a sudden stop at the 3a, an oxer. They jumped it on the second attempt but it just got a little messy, the poles came down and Karamell couldn’t gather himself for part B.

August 19, 2026 – 5:24 AM

What a first session. 34 riders have jumped and Britain's Ben Maher and Point Break, who were fifth to go, have maintained their lead following a super speedy clear on 72.61sec.

Here's how the top 10 is looking at this stage. Times have been converted to coefficient scores, but these will change as the day goes on and the leaderboard changes.

Of these 10 combinations, nine jumped clear. Abdulrahman Alrajhi had four-faults but their quick round keeps them in contention.

Ben Maher (GBR) and Point Break. Time 72.61/score 0.00
Laura Kraut (USA) and Baloutine. Time 72.72/score 0.05
Nayel Nassar (EGY) and ESI Ali. Time 73.41/score 0.40
Marcus Ehning (GER) and Coolio 42. Time 74.16/ score 0.77
Nina Mallevaey (FRA) and Dynastie De Beaufour. Time 74.46/score 0.92
Luke Dee (NZL) and Gangster WW. Time 74.66/score 1.02
Abdulramhman Alrajhi (KSA) and Ventage. Time 75.8/score 1.59
Abdel Said (BEL) and Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z. Time 75.85/score 1.62
Jaroslaw Skrzyczynski (POL) and Komboy. Time 76.02/score 1.70
Emanuele Camilli (ITA) and Chacereno PS. Time 76.57/score 1.98

August 19, 2026 – 5:27 AM

The next session is about to begin where the second team riders will come forward. Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair are next up for the home side.

August 19, 2026 – 5:32 AM

Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair go straight into the lead for Germany, 0.3 of a second ahead of Ben Maher and Point Break. Sophie and Marcus have given Germany a brilliant start.

August 19, 2026 – 5:39 AM

A super round from Pieter Devos and Casual DV Z for Belgium, 72.76sec. This pair were on the European gold medal-winning team last year.

August 19, 2026 – 5:45 AM

A lovely smooth round from Britain's Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda. A clear looked to be on the horizon but a risk to the blue oxer at 12a where they turned a little tight, didn’t pay off and the poles fell to add four seconds to their time. They finish on a total 76.93sec for 16th at this stage.

August 19, 2026 – 5:48 AM

USA titan McLain Ward slots in 11th aboard High Star Hero. They were up on the clock, posting the quickest round of the morning so far on 71.83sec, but they too knocked 12a. This puts them in 11th on 75.83.

August 19, 2026 – 5:55 AM

Ireland’s first team rider Darragh Kenny has shared his thoughts on his round with Eddy Blue…

“It’s obviously a little bit disappointing having the one down,” said Darragh.

“I was trying to do one less stride on eight. Most people are doing nine, some people have done eight already. I maybe did it too forward and I was maybe a little bit too deep at the end.

“But he was jumping super, he felt in really good shape and happy to be here. I was very happy with him, and hopefully the boys can go great and we can stay in the hunt a little bit.”

August 19, 2026 – 6:00 AM

Israel’s Mark Bluman moves into second with Landon De Nyze. They left nothing on the table and a slightly awkward jump at the last generated a big gasp from the crowd but the fence stayed up. They have a time of 72.5, just ahead of Ben Maher and Point Break who are now third with 72.61.

August 19, 2026 – 6:06 AM

France’s first rider Nina Mallevaey was thrilled with Dynastie De Beaufour's clear round this morning.

“She gave everything, she felt amazing,” said Nina. “It really was a pleasure to ride in that ring. She’s always happy to come back here.

“I know she has a big stride, and we need to go fast enough. She answered everything really well.”

Nina praised Frank Rothenberger's track.

“It’s a good course. You can do a lot of things with it,” said Nina.

“There's quite a couple lines where you can make a decision to do one more, or one less.”

August 19, 2026 – 6:11 AM

It’s four-faults for France’s second team rider Olivier Perreau and GL Events Dora DAiguilly, who knocked the fence 10 oxer. This adds four seconds to their time to put them in 18th on 76.72. Poles are proving expensive in this speed competition.

August 19, 2026 – 6:21 AM

Paris Olympic individual silver medallists Steve Guerdat and the wonderful Dynamix De Belheme deliver a textbook round. It was smooth and precise, giving them a brilliant time of 72.32. This puts them into second at this stage.

It’s amazingly tight at the top:

Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair 72.28
Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme 72.32
Mark Bluman and Landon De Nyze 72.5
Ben Maher and Point Brek 72.61
Laura Kraut and Baloutine 72.72
Pieter Devos and Casual DV Z 72.76

August 19, 2026 – 6:23 AM

Khaled Almobty and Diana Du Plevau Z just showed that Sophie Hinner’s time can be beaten. Khaled stops the clock on 70.78sec, but an expensive pole means four seconds to add.

August 19, 2026 – 6:28 AM

Lovely to see former Brit Sameh El Dahan at a World Championships. Sameh reverted back to jumping for his home country Egypt this year. It was a lovely balanced round for Sameh and Oscar A until the last line where it just unravelled a little at the turnback to 12a. They jumped into the double but couldn’t regroup for the second part and so added had to circle and reattempt. They also had an earlier pole, to finish down the order on 88.66sec.

August 19, 2026 – 6:41 AM

Harry Charles has shared his thoughts on his opening round with LT Holst Freda…

“I’m very happy, Freda was amazing,” said Harry, who has only been riding Fred for a few months.

“It’s a big atmosphere to step into, our partnership is not super experienced together, but she’s plenty experienced and I have a little bit too. It’s great to get that one out the way.”

Harry reflected on his pole down at the first part of the double 12a.

“I would have loved to be clear, it was completely my own fault so I'm a little bit disappointed in myself, but on the whole, I’m very happy,” he said.

“Everything was just coming so nice, and I decided my plan was to go six down that second-to-last line. But just before take off on the oxer, I thought I'll do five, and she got the five easy. Then I just probably turned in a stride less than I should have.

“She just has so much scope. On a normal horse, you come around to that oxer and your natural instinct is to put a bit of leg on, and I did, and just maybe rode her through the front rail a bit. She nicked it behind. I should have just sat quiet and let her do the work.”

Harry has had to get know Freda quickly during their short time together.

“I've never had a horse get to know me, or me get to know one so well, so quickly, and have straight out of the box success. It’s a pretty new feeling,” said Harry.

“The aim was always to come here with Los Angeles qualification in mind, so just to be part of the team really was the main focus. Then I started to get to know how special she is, maybe we could do more than just qualify. We have three great riders also on the team here so expectations are high. She’s good enough, and so I just got to keep going and jump a couple of clears now.

August 19, 2026 – 6:47 AM

Luciana Diniz and Vertigo Du Desert get a vital score on the team for Brazil following the elimination of Marlon Modolo Zanotelli and Dorette OLD when they did not jump through the flags when jumping the skinny wall.

It was going well for Luciana but that last line is proving influential in this second round of riders. Luciana and Vertigo Du Desert have two poles, adding eight seconds to their 76.19sec, to finish this round on 84.19.

August 19, 2026 – 6:55 AM

An excellent clear round Ireland’s second team Bertram Allen and Qonquest de Rigo. The 10-year-old is a big moving gelding and they took a couple of strides out, but he’s not quite as tight and nimble on the turns as some. They finished on 74sec, which puts them in eighth at the moment.

August 19, 2026 – 7:01 AM

We now have a lunchtime break. 73 combinations have now jumped in the first two morning sessions, including two team riders from each country. Sophie Hinners took the lead at the beginning of the second session and has remained there with Iron Dames Singclair.

This is how the top 10 leaderboard looks at this stage:

Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair 72.28
Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme 72.32
Mark Bluman and Landon De Nyze 72.5
Ben Maher and Point Break 72.61
Laura Kraut and Baloutine 72.72
Pieter Devos and Casual DV Z 72.76
Nayel Nassar (EGY) and ESI Ali 73.41
Bertram Allen (IRL) and Qonquest De Rigo 74
Marcus Ehning (GER) and Coolio 52 74.16
Nina Mallevaey (FRA) and Dynastie De Beaufour 74.46

The third session gets under way at 12.25pm UK time (1.25pm German time).

August 19, 2026 – 7:32 AM

We are back! Abdurakhmon Abdullaev and Caballone are first in the arena in this third session as individuals for Uzbekistan. However they have opted to retire after the fourth fence with Caballone looking a bit overwhelmed in this big Aachen arena.

August 19, 2026 – 7:37 AM

Daniel Duesser and Otello De Guldenboom post a masterclass round for the home side to finish on 72.32sec, the exact same time as Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme.

The German team has got off to a great start with three riders in the top 10 at the moment; Sophie Hinners is in the lead, Daniel is equal second, and Marcus Ehning is in 10th.

August 19, 2026 – 7:45 AM

Belgium’s Nicola Phillippaerts and the nimble 16-year-old mare Katanga v/j Dingeshof match Ben Maher and Point Break’s 72.61 time. They lie in equal fifth.

August 19, 2026 – 7:50 AM

What a round from Scott Brash. The Scotsman flies straight into the lead for Britain with Hello Mango.

The 11-year-old mare, who is making her championship debut here, was looking for the fences the whole way and they stopped the clock on 72.19, nine hundredths of a second faster than Germany’s Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair.

The Paris trio Scott, Ben and Harry have now all jumped in this opening speed round. Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo will go in the fourth session later this afternoon.

Scott is in the lead, Ben in equal sixth, and Harry in 31st.

August 19, 2026 – 7:58 AM

A super round for the third US team rider, Lillie Keenan and Fasther, who posted 72.94 for 10th. The top 10 are currently separated by less than a second.

August 19, 2026 – 8:02 AM

Tamara Rueda and Callaho Liantos part company in a miscommunication at the fence 5 oxer. Tamara is on her feet and the pair leave the arena.

This is unfortunate for the South African team which only had three combinations, and so are out of the team competition. Ronnie Healy and Cornet’s Mandarino and Charlie Bays and Ninety Stone Pullman will be able to continue as individuals.

August 19, 2026 – 8:11 AM

Six-time Olympian McLain Ward has shared some thoughts on course-designer Frank Rothenberger's track…

“I have great regard for Frank Rothenberger, not only for how he's built throughout his whole career, but this is a challenge. 150 horses on turf with a little a bit of rain in the air, a pretty wide range of level so to speak, or at least experience. I don't think it's an easy class to build,” he said.

“It seems to have done a good job. Everything seems to be going smoothly, and it's still a challenge. So I think he did well.”

McLain said the ground in the big Aachen arena is “spectacular”.

“Anytime you run this many horses, with a little bit of moisture in the area, it will get a little greasy” he said.

“You can feel you have to hold up your horses a little bit, but that’s one of the variables of the sport.”

August 19, 2026 – 8:21 AM

Steve Guerdat delivered a classy round earlier for Switzerland on Dynamix De Belheme. Read what he had to say…

“I was very nervous, because the first class, the speed class, is always very difficult to know what to expect,” he said.

“It’s always a very long time waiting for the championships, we’re talking months getting ready and trying to do everything right, and then you’re here and it finally starts.

“You don’t win it the first round, everybody knows you can lose everything, so it’s always very stressful. You don’t now how much you can do, you want to save something but we’ve seen the last few years how important the speed class is nowadays in championships.”

Dynamix De Belheme eased Steve’s nerves as they warmed up.

“The jump is always very good with her so I wasn’t expecting anything different, but she was really with me,” he explained.

“I did some tight turns in the warm-up to see how she was responding and she was 100% focused. She hasn’t jumped so much this year so I was afraid she would be a bit too fresh but then she really gave me the feeling that she was completely focused and with me. It took a lot of the pressure away and then I was really able to ride around as I planned. She delivered beautifully today, I’m very proud of her.”

Steve said the course is “tricky”.

You don’t have a lot of options in turns, personally I’d have preferred a few extra turns,” he said.

“Luckily the lines are not straight, you always have a bending line so you can stay a little bit more to the inside or to the outside. Every jump is related to a distance, it wouldn't be that important if it was a normal table A class, but because it’s a speed class, every stride is important, so it’s a tricky class to ride.

“If you jump the class in a normal rhythm it’s not extra difficult. But when you go for it, obviously it gets much more technical and difficult.”

August 19, 2026 – 8:30 AM

Scott Brash went straight into the lead in this afternoon session on Hello Mango. Read what he had to say…

“I’m delighted. Mango’s been fantastic, she jumped phenomenal and answered every question. I’m super happy to get a round under our belt,” he said Scott.

It’s a tricky balance of getting a quick round on the first day, but not taking too much risk – a skill Scott nailed perfectly today.

“You’ve still got to ride the plan that you think is suitable for your horse. You can't do something that your horse is not capable of. So I think you've got to just stay focused on that round, not get too caught up in what everyone else is doing,” he said.

“But we've been working Mango towards this championship for a long time, and I've always thought she's a championship horse, so it was always going to be trying to be in a quick round on day one. It's nice to get it done and be up amongst the leaders.”

Scott has rated the 11-year-old mare since he started riding her four years ago.

“When I sat on her as a seven-year-old thought she had the ingredients to be a championship horse. We've taken our time and produced her slowly,” he said.

“I think she has all the attributes to win anything. Maybe a year or two ago she wouldn't have been able to do this quick round and still stay calm, she's a sharp mare, but now she has the experience.

“She's just developed into a really cool horse. I can go quick and stay in control and do what I need to do to give her the best possible chance of jumping clear. So that's a great feeling. She's super smart, she has everything that I think you need to win a championship.”

August 19, 2026 – 8:35 AM

Peder Fredricson and Alcapone Des Carmille have been delayed while a pulled shoe is replaced. They'll now jump in a few horses time.

August 19, 2026 – 8:46 AM

Daniel Duesser and Otello De Guldenboom bolstered the German team’s place earlier as the third combination for the home side to sit in the top 10.

Read Daniel’s thoughts on his round…

“I had a plan in the beginning to do eight strides after the plank inside the water to the oxer, which thankfully worked out for me. I was doubting it a little bit,” he said.

“Aachen is always special. Today we have a lot of visitors here and a lot of German supporters, so delivering a nice result is a nice idea. Germany started this strong morning with Marcus Ehning first to go. It was not really the draw you would have expected, but he did a very good job as the first competitor.

“Sophie did an unbelievable round and spent a long time in the lead. In the end, in that position of the competition, you cannot do much better. I tried to do less strides than Sophie but we ended up around the same time.

“Three clear rounds in decent times is a good start for Germany. Everything is very close today, Britain and Belgium also have three very strong rounds so far. There’s still two rounds and it’s a long week to go.”

August 19, 2026 – 8:55 AM

Sweden’s third team rider Peder Fredricson did well to manage Alcapone Des Camille to the finish when the 16-year-old gelding slipped on the bending line turning back to the double at fence 12.

It just threw them off their stride and they didn’t regain their composure, struggling as they came out of the double for four-faults, and they then got an awkward shot at the last but it stayed up. They finish on a total of 78.8, in 41st.

August 19, 2026 – 9:14 AM

It was a good time of 72.79sec, but Ireland’s third team combination Cian O’Connor and Chatolinue PS have two poles, so they add eight-faults, to finish on 80.79.

Cian and Chatolinue were putting in a good pace, but tapped the oxer at fence 8 after the skinny wall, and then the first part of the double at 12a. This penultimate fence is proving to be one of the toughest on course, the approach is a rollback from a vertical at fence 11, and many combinations are now being caught out by their approach.

The third session has now concluded and there’s a short break before the fourth team riders jump. Here’s how the standings look:

1. Scott Brash (GBR) and Hello Mango 72.19
2. Sophie Hinners (GER) and Iron Dames Singclair 72.28
=3. Steve Guerdat (SUI) and Dynamix De Belheme 72.32
=3. Daniel Duesser (GER) and Otello De Guldenboom 72.32
5. Mark Bluman and Landon De Nyze 72.5
=6. Ben Maher and Point Break 72.61
=6. Nicola Phillippaerts (BEL) and Katanga v/h Dingeshof 72.6
8. Omar Abdul Aziz A Marzooqi (UAE) and Enjoy De La Mure 72.62
9. Laura Kraut (USA) and Baloutine 72.72
10. Pieter Devos (BEL) and Casual DV Z 72.76

August 19, 2026 – 9:24 AM

The fourth and final session of today’s opening speed round has begun as teams field their anchor combinations. Koki Saito and Elliot De Gineau JRA were the last to go for Japan and it was four-faults for this pair. They finish on 81.41.

August 19, 2026 – 9:33 AM

All eyes were on European champions Richard Vogel and United Touch S as favourites, but the pair have got their Aachen campaign off to a slightly disappointing start with the vertical down at fence 11 just a few from home.

Richard was making good use of the stallion’s huge paces and elasticity, but they opted for six strides down to the vertical, where many have gone on five, and United just looked to get too close to it. Four-faults mean four seconds added to the clock, so they finish today on 77.36, currently down in 37th.

It’s still very early days in the competition so things are far from lost, but Richard would have been hoping for a better first score. In the team standings, Richard will be Germany’s drop score.

August 19, 2026 – 9:43 AM

It is four-faults for British anchor combination Adrian Whiteway and the lovely Chacco Volo. The pair, making their championships debut, had a rather steady round, a time of 79.51sec. They had a pole down at fence 9a – the first part of the double over a water tray – and so they add four seconds to finish on 83.51.

All four Brits have now jumped. Adrian will be the team drop score.

August 19, 2026 – 9:50 AM

As the rain comes down in Aachen we have a new leader. Harrie Smolders and Mr Tac have stopped the clock on 71.96sec for the Netherlands. Harrie kept the 14-year-old gelding in a brilliant rhythm moving across the ground, and the turnback to the wavy planks at fence 4 was one of the tightest of the day.

Harrie beat Scott Brash’s time by 0.23secs. There’s still 25 combinations to go including a very fast Frenchman Julien Epaillard and world champion Henrik von Eckermann.

August 19, 2026 – 10:00 AM

Read what Brit Adrian Whiteway had to say about his round with Chacco Volo…

“I’m very happy with the horse today. I was in a very fortunate position that the guys in front of me have all done amazing, so it took the pressure off me,” said Adrian.

“He's not a fast horse, and we know that. He's more important for tomorrow and Friday. Today was just about putting in a good performance, showing him the ring, and keeping him happy, ready to go tomorrow.”

Adrian said the pole down over the water tray was his fault.

“It’s really unlucky, but hopefully it'll set me up in good stead for tomorrow.”

Adrian is making championship debut here in Aachen, having been a key part of Nations Cup teams recently.

“There was a little mutter last year after competing here at the Nations Cup that if everything went well it could happen. It still felt a long way away, but he’s been consistent all year from double clear to double clear,” he said.

“It was a dream come true to get the call up.”

Adrian has had the ride on Chacco Volo since a four-year-old.

“We’ve done everything together, so that makes it a little bit more special. I know him inside out,” said Adrian.

“He always tries for me. Touch wood, if I ride him well, he goes well – so the pressure is always on me, not him really. I don’t want to let him down.”

August 19, 2026 – 10:13 AM

Flying Frenchman Julien Epaillard maintained his well-known speed status taking the lead aboard Fringan De Vesquerie on 70.06sec. Julien is an expert when it comes to quick rounds, and importantly for France, kept the poles up. Antonie Ermann and Floyd Des Pres provide the French drop score on 90.9.

August 19, 2026 – 10:17 AM

Hungarian combination András Jun. Kövy pulled up Egano Van’t Wingerhof Z after fence 10, with the horse displaying signs of an injury. The 13-year-old stallion was taken away in a trailer. We will provide an update on this horse when this becomes available.

August 19, 2026 – 10:26 AM

Canada’s Erynn Ballard suffered a fall from Fave D’Authuit. As they jumped fence 5 the gelding just looked to get his legs in a tangle and Erynn was unseated. She was back on her feet and led him out of the arena.

August 19, 2026 – 10:37 AM

Swedish superstar Henrik von Eckermann, reigning world champion with King Edward, has another brilliant partnership on his hands with Minute Man. The 12-year-old had some time out of the ring between July 2025 and May this year, but they’ve built back up towards this world championships well and gelding looked confident in the big arena.

Henrik and Minute Man come out on top of the Swede's with the only clear of the team. They finish on 75.52sec.

August 19, 2026 – 10:45 AM

As Brazil’s Rogrido Pessoa and Major Tom post an excellent clear 74.37sec round, the heavens have truly opened in Aachen. We just have a final few combinations to jump in this opening speed competition.

August 19, 2026 – 10:52 AM

Irish anchor combination Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz were looking on track to shake up the leaders with a quick round, but an unlucky pole at 12a, meant four seconds to add to their 71.15sec time. They finish the day on 75.15.

Cian O’Connor and Chatolinue PS’s 80.79 will be Ireland’s drop score.

August 19, 2026 – 10:59 AM

That’s a wrap on the opening day of the showjumping World Championships. There’s been plenty of highs and lows and some brilliant jumping, with Brits Scott Brash and Ben Maher in the top 10.

Here’s how the individual standings look at this stage:

1. Julien Epaillard (FRA) and Fringan De Vesquerie 70.6
2. Harrie Smilders (NED) and Mr Tac 71.96
3. Scott Brash (GBR) and Hello Mango 72.19
4. Sophie Hinners (GER) and Iron Dames Singclair 72.28
=5. Steve Guerdat (SUI) and Dynamix De Belheme 72.32
=5. Daniel Duesser (GER) and Otello De Guldenboom 72.32
7. Mark Bluman and Landon De Nyze 72.5
=8. Ben Maher and Point Break 72.61
=8. Nicola Phillippaerts (BEL) and Katanga v/h Dingeshof 72.61

We will bring you an update on team standings shortly.

August 19, 2026 – 1:33 PM

Here's the team standings following the conclusion of the opening day:

Germany 3.48
Belgium 3.69
USA 4.85
Great Britain 4.98
France 4.99
Netherlands 5.08

Italy and Ireland are in equal seventh, on 7.69.

August 19, 2026 – 1:38 PM

We have an official FEI statement on Hungarian combination András Jun. Kövy and Egano Van’t Wingerhof Z, after the 13-year-old stallion was pulled up mid-round.

“During the team and individual qualifier András Jun. Kövy riding Egano Van’t Wingerhof Z, felt an irregularity in the horse’s movement between fences 10 and 11. The athlete immediately stopped and dismounted,” read the statement.

“Egano was examined by a FEI veterinarian on the field of play. He was able to walk into the horse ambulance and was transported to the veterinary clinic for further examination.

“He has been diagnosed with a soft tissue injury, is being monitored and remains under the care of the Hungarian veterinary team.”

August 19, 2026 – 1:43 PM

That’s it from us today. Tomorrow (Thursday) we will be bringing you live reporting from the second team and individual qualifier. The action begins at 8am UK time (9am German time).

August 20, 2026 – 2:53 AM

Thursday 20 August: showjumping team and individual qualifier

Good morning! It’s day two of the showjumping World Championships in Aachen. This is senior news writer Becky Murray and I’m back to guide you through all the action as it happens.

Today we have the second team and individual qualifying competition. The individuals will jump first in reverse order, followed by the team riders. The competition is under Table A rules, so the lowest number of faults is key within the 84sec time allowed.

Uzbekistan rider Abdurakhmon Abdullaev and Caballone are in first at 8am UK time (9am German time).

H&H eventing editor Pippa Roome is on the ground in Aachen and informs me the grass arena is wet underfoot following yesterday’s rain. We’ll see how that ground comes into play today.

August 20, 2026 – 2:57 AM

Check out course-designer Frank Rothenberger's track today.

Frank's track has increased in technicality today. There are 13 fences, including a double at 5ab (one stride vertical to an oxer), a triple combination at 9abc (two-stride oxer to vertical and one-stride to a oxer), and a triple bar at 12. Frank has made use of related distances and the highest verticals stand at 1.65m.

Frank Rothenberger's Thursday showjumping track in Aachen. (Image credit: FEI)

August 20, 2026 – 3:01 AM

A reminder of the individual standings at this stage:

Pictured Frenchman Julien Epaillard and Fringan De Vesquerie, who are at the top of the leaderboard. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

August 20, 2026 – 3:07 AM

We are off! Uzbekistan rider Abdurakhmon Abdullaev and Caballone. It was nice to see this pair complete their round after retiring yesterday. Caballone still showing some hesitation today, and he backed off the double at 5ab, resulting in them having to circle which cost them time. They had a couple of poles, including the triple bar at fence 12 .They finish with 12 jumping faults and 11 time-penalties.

August 20, 2026 – 3:26 AM

That was unfortunate elimination for Maria Gabriela Brugal Gasso and J’Adore Flamenco from the Dominican Republic. They had a stop at fence 6, the FEI white and purple oxer, having slid into it and the same thing happened at the next fence. J’Adore Flamenco just looked to be struggling for grip.

Seven competitors have gone but we have yet to see a clear round. This morning’s session are individuals from countries that have not fielded teams, and they are jumping in reverse order of yesterday.

Three competitors have jumped inside the 84sec time allowed, showing its achievable.

August 20, 2026 – 3:32 AM

Cypriot rider Alexa Stais and Cornflake CR provide the first clear round of the day. Alexa did a great job of piloting this eye-catching gelding round the big Aachen arena. They are still a new partnership, Alexa took over the reins in March from Theresa Sutterluty. Alex and Cornflake remain on their 9.08 score.

August 20, 2026 – 3:58 AM

A brilliant clear round from Monaco’s Anastasia Nielsen and ESI Rocky. Anastasia is one of the youngest competitors at just 20-years-old and this is the first time Monaco has been represented at the World Showjumping Championships.

You might recognise the name ESI Rocky, he is a former top ride of Irishman Seamus Hughes. Anastasia took over the ride in August 2025.

August 20, 2026 – 4:16 AM

Four-time Olympian Ibrahim Hani Bisharat shows his experience to deliver the third clear of the day with 10-year-old stallion Lesther. This is followed by a clear from Hungary’s Anna Simicska and Kansas VL.

The 25 combinations competing as individuals have now jumped and now we move on to the teams.

We have a short break until 9.45am UK time (10.45am German time) when the first rotation of team riders will come forward, jumping in reverse order of merit from yesterday’s first round.

We begin with Jaroslaw Skrzyczynski and Komboy for Poland. There are 21 combinations to jump before the first of the Brits, Ben Maher and Point Break.

A reminder of the top teams at this stage:

Germany 3.48
Belgium 3.69
USA 4.85
Great Britain 4.98
France 4.99
Netherlands 5.08

Italy and Ireland are in equal seventh, on 7.69.

August 20, 2026 – 4:51 AM

The team competition has begun and it’s a foot-perfect clear from the first of the Polish riders, Jaroslaw Skrzyczynski and Komboy.

The 84sec time allowed was no problem for the pair and the ground looks to be holding up ok after yesterday’s rain. Course-designer Frank Rothenberger could have moved fences a little to the side after the individual session earlier but has opted not to.

There's 29 teams still in the competition; four of these have three riders and the remainder are four-man teams.

August 20, 2026 – 5:10 AM

Heartbreak for Argentina’s José María Larocca who was unseated from Finn Lente as they jumped out of the final part of the treble combination 9c. They got a tricky shot at the middle vertical and it all unravelled. José was back on his feet.

August 20, 2026 – 5:16 AM

Zascha Nygaard and Com’on Drake de Maugre had to work hard there, but it was a super clear round for Denmark.

We have now seen clear rounds from Poland, Norway, Canada and Denmark. Australia’s first team rider Jamie Winning-Kermond had one time-fault with Tulara Wat Cobolensky.

August 20, 2026 – 5:26 AM

Steve Guerdat delivers a brilliant clear for Switzerland with Dynamix De Belheme. Steve’s so good at keeping horses in a rhythm, though Dynamix gave the first part of the double at fence 5a a good rattle and she really had to stretch over the penultimate oxer at fence 12.

Switzerland will be hoping for a better day today, having finished yesterday down in 13th.

August 20, 2026 – 5:37 AM

A tricky day in the office for Israel’s Daniel Bluman and Corbie V.V. They came round to corner to 5ab and Corbie looked to have lost her concentration resulting in a run-out at part B, the oxer. They jumped it on the second attempt, but went on to knock the vertical at fence 10. They finish with 8 jumping-faults and 9 nine time-penalties.

August 20, 2026 – 5:43 AM

Frustration for Ireland’s first team rider Darragh Kenny and Eddy Blue who knocked the last, after what was a really solid round from this pair. Ireland were in =7th after yesterday.

We now go into the top six teams.

August 20, 2026 – 5:44 AM

And another to knock the last. Michael Greeve and Denver tap out the fence 13 vertical for four-faults to the Netherlands’ team score. They also have two time-penalties to add following a steadier round. The time allowance is 84sec, which most are making with ease, but riders have to remain aware of the clock.

August 20, 2026 – 5:46 AM

Nina Mallevaey keeps France in the hunt with a superb clear aboard Dynastie De Beaufour's This pair were clear yesterday and proving a valuable part of the French team at Nina’s second championship.

August 20, 2026 – 5:50 AM

Ben Maher does what he does best. Another clear on the board with Point Break. The 12-year-old stallion looks in phenomenal form and made light work of Frank Rothenberger’s track.

Harry Charles will be out second for Britain, in the next rotation of team riders. Adrian Whiteway will go third for the team today and Scott Brash will be the anchor.

August 20, 2026 – 5:53 AM

Laura Kraut and Baloutine had to work for that clear, she really had to gather his focus for the final fence, but they come home with nothing to add for the USA.

August 20, 2026 – 5:55 AM

Katanga v/j Dingeshof gave a couple of fences a rattle and put in a few extra strides, but Nicola Phillippaerts piloted the mare home clear for Belgium.

August 20, 2026 – 6:00 AM

A little nervous moment for the home crowd as Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42 get a little close to the last, but the master delivers that all-important clear. That means the top five teams all remain on the same score after the first rotation of riders.

Germany 3.48
Belgium 3.69
USA 4.85
Great Britain 4.98
France 4.99

August 20, 2026 – 6:16 AM

Ben Maher has shared his thoughts on his clear round with Point Break…

“I didn't feel quite as smooth as yesterday, but that can happen in certain rounds. But it felt very good,” said Ben,

“But he jumped great. I don't think he touched a jump, and he felt very very confident and forward, which is the biggest thing with him, ready for tomorrow. I hope.

Ben explained some of his stride choices.

“At two to three, I don't get held up too much on really long distances, but he got there way easier than I thought. Then the next one was longer than I thought. This is what can happen with him,” he said.

Ben said he opted for seven strides from the double at 5ab to the oxer at six, then a forward six strides to the upright over a water tray at fence 7, up the middle of the arena.

Into the triple combination fence 9abc Ben said the natural stride going down the hill is nine strides.

“But I just stayed out and did 10 strides to put him on his back end, and just help the scope and the balance,” he said, adding with some people knocking the final vertical (fence 13) he added some power to the triple bar at fence 12.

August 20, 2026 – 6:21 AM

We are under way now with the second rotation of team riders, and the first rotation of riders for the three-man teams. Championship debutants Tamara Reuda and Callaho Llantos have a lovely round, picking up four-faults for South Africa.

August 20, 2026 – 6:25 AM

Swiss superstar Steve Guerdat has shared his thoughts on Frank Rothenberger’s track today…

“It’s a tough course,” he said. “Today is probably the most difficult course to build for the course-designer because everybody comes back. You have 150 horses; so you have the really top experienced horse and riders and some other ones that don't have the same experience.

“It’s difficult to judge for the course-designer to make it not too difficult for the ones who don’t have so much experience, especially in this ring, but also don't make it too easy that you can still keep on riding [in the competition] if you have one down.

“Tomorrow it’s probably going to be a lot tougher, also with the light. I think this round is very difficult to build, and taking that into consideration, I think Frank did a very good job.”

August 20, 2026 – 6:36 AM

Laura Kraut was thrilled with Baloutine, who was a late horse swap for her before Aachen. Read what she had to say about her clear round for the USA today…

“Two days in a row now he’s just been 100% with me, doing everything I ask of him,” she said.

“He’s just one of the best horses I’ve ever ridden in my life and to have him come out at age 16, sort of without a plan for doing this and perform the way he has, I’m just thrilled.”

Laura said the verticals are particularly tall. The highest is 1.65m.

“When I walked in the ring the first one we came to was fence eight and I thought: ‘Well that’s very tall’. And then I saw fence two, three, five, and just the whole way around the course the verticals are maximum height,” she said.

“I’d say the oxers are probably a little more generous than what we might see tomorrow. I think Frank has gone a little bit easy with the width, but it’s a very technical course, and we had a lot of rain overnight. I think so far the ground is holding up beautifully, we were all a little bit tentative about it, but it felt really good.”

Laura said she isn’t usually the team pathfinder but this worked best for Baloutine.

“I normally go in the third slot, but my horse is a little horse shy and I feel like going early the schooling area or warm-up is sometimes a little less congested,” she said.

“I felt that it would be better for him, and then yesterday I was really happy with that.”

Discussing her great contribution to the team’s score Laura said she feels “a lot of relief.”

“I’m excited to just relax this afternoon. Although it’s not really relaxing because I’m hopeful for the rest of my teammates, I think I get more nervous for them than me” she said.

“I’m really wishing them well and I’m going to be out there hopefully doing what I can.”

August 20, 2026 – 6:53 AM

Katharina Rhombberg and Colestus Cambridge come home on four-faults for Austria, having knocked fence 7a, a big vertical. It’s been a tough two days for the team, they finished yesterday down in 18th, and their pathfinder Max Kühner and EIC Cooley Jump The Q had eight-faults this morning. Only the top 10 teams proceed to tomorrow’s final.

August 20, 2026 – 6:59 AM

Marlon Modolo Zanotelli and Dorette OLD firmly put yesterday behind them with a well-deserved clear for Brazil. They suffered a shock elimination in the opening speed round when they were deemed not to have jumped between the flags over the skinny wall.

August 20, 2026 – 7:08 AM

That’s another clear on the board for Switzerland thanks to Martin Fuchs and Conner Jei. The pair had a heart-in-mouth moment when the big gelding slipped as they turned back to the oxer at fence 11, giving it a big rattle. They lost some time and Martin really had to ride forward to the second last.

August 20, 2026 – 7:12 AM

Reigning world champion Henrik von Eckermann delivers Sweden’s second faultless round of the day, following his teammate Pentronella Andersson this morning.

Spain is in next and it’s one time-fault for Imma Roquet Autonell. The first Spanish rider Armando Trapote jumped clear this morning.

August 20, 2026 – 7:17 AM

Khaled Almobty and Diana de Pleveau post a cool clear for Saudi Arabia, while there’s disappointment for Mark Bluman and Landon de Nyze, who pick up eight-faults for Israel. This will be a tough blow after teammate’s Daniel Bluman’s 17 faults earlier, putting Israel’s spot in tomorrow’s final in doubt.

August 20, 2026 – 7:22 AM

Italy and Ireland were lying joint 7th after yesterday’s opening speed round. Emanuele Camilli and Chacareno PS has just posted Italy’s second clear of the day, while Ireland’s second team rider Bertram Allen had a frustrating start when he knocked the first on Qonquest De Rigo. A reminder, Ireland’s pathfinders Darragh Kenny and Eddy Blue had four-faults this morning, and so they need some clears from their remaining two riders.

August 20, 2026 – 7:27 AM

Bas Moerings and Iphstar jump clear for the Netherlands. This 13-year-old stallion looked keen to get on with the job, getting a little strong but keep those fences up.

Second French team rider Olivier Perreau and GL Events Dorai d’Aiguilly pick up four-faults when the knock the vertical fence 10, after the treble combination. Nina Mallevaey jumped clear for France earlier, so there’s still some breathing room as teams will drop the worst score.

August 20, 2026 – 7:31 AM

Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda add four-faults to Britain’s scoresheet. It was an overall lovely round from this new partnership, but the 12-year-old mare suddenly got a bit quick before fence 4, an oxer with a water tray, and they had it down. Ben Maher was clear for the team earlier, but with it so close at the top, Harry’s four-faults puts the pressure on Adrian Whiteway and Scott Brash.

August 20, 2026 – 7:34 AM

What a round form Katherine Dinan and Out of The Blue SCF. The 12-year-old grey showed some impressive athleticism, giving those fences plenty of air. A fabulous second clear round for team USA.

August 20, 2026 – 7:38 AM

Two fences down for Belgium’s Pieter Devos and Casual DV Z, the pair knock the second part of the treble combination 9c and they’re another pair to fall foul of the last fence. The first Belgian rider Nicola Phillippaerts went clear this morning, so Belgium will be hoping to make Pieter’s round the drop score, depending how the final two team riders go this afternoon.

August 20, 2026 – 7:43 AM

Two clears on the board for the home side. Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair put in a marvellous foot-perfect round for Germany to keep that team gold in sight.

The second rotation of team riders have now concluded. The third session begins at 1.05pm UK time (2.05pm German time).

The top five teams remain the same:

Germany 3.48
Belgium 3.69
USA 4.85
Great Britain 4.98
France 4.99

Ireland has slipped down to 15th.

The top 10 teams will qualify for tomorrow's final.

August 20, 2026 – 8:09 AM

Harry Charles has shared his disappointment following his four-fault round with LT Holst Freda…

“It just wasn’t nearly good enough to be honest,” said Harry.

“The horse jumped amazing, I've just not been on it all week, so I’m really embarrassed and disappointed.”

Discussing the pole down at the oxer at fence 4 Harry said the mistake followed from his jump over the planks at fence 3.

“She jumped a bit left on the plank. At any other show, your mind works quick and you adapt. You would put nine in, but I somehow was so stuck on the number, I chased on the eight,” he said.

“When you land that far away from the distance, it’s never going to be there. I wish I could tell you what went through my mind, but I just don’t know.”

August 20, 2026 – 8:19 AM

The third team rotation of riders has commenced – and the second rider of the three-man teams. First up is Ronnie Healy and Cornet’s Mandarino for South Africa, who come home on eight faults. The 13-year-old just kicked out the second part of the double at 5ab on landing, then had the last, fence 13. This big upright is starting to feel like unlucky fence 13, causing disappointment for many.

August 20, 2026 – 8:24 AM

Ireland had a tough morning, with both Darragh Kenny and Bertram Allen, having four-faults to push the team down to 15th.

Read what Bertram had to say about his round with Qonquest de Rigo..

“A bit of a bummer having the first fence down. I’m not sure why it happened. Then he jumped fantastic,” said the Irishman.

“It’s a real shame, and there’s a lot of clears today, so that four-faults is going to be expensive unfortunately. Yesterday he had a good clear round and was top 18, but unfortunately today is going to knock us down a bit.

“To have the first fence, and Darragh the last fence, we’re just not getting any rub of the green. But we’ve two great guys to come with Cian next then Shane, so fingers crossed.”

August 20, 2026 – 8:28 AM

Our reporter Pippa Roome caught up with the current clubhouse leader, Germany's Sophie Hinners, and she told us more about her ride Iron Dames Singclair.

“He’s very special to me. I got him when he was at the end of his eight-year-old year. He's 11 now and we stepped up together in this level,” she said.

“When we got him, we did not really expect that he is such a dream horse, that he can jump such big classes. When you see him, he’s quite small, he’s quite short, and then he just goes in and jumps a track like this. And he’s done it before round the biggest tracks on the world before – he makes it look easy.

“He always comes in the arena, wants to do his best, and he is always fighting for me.”

August 20, 2026 – 8:33 AM

This hasn’t been Canadian Erynn Ballard’s competition. She parted company with Fave D’Authuit yesterday after being unseated, and today she elected to retire after knocking both parts of the the double, fence 5ab. The pair had fence one down and just didn’t look to get into a rhythm today.

August 20, 2026 – 8:44 AM

Thomas McDermott and Oaks Ventriloquist give Australia its second clear of the day. Edwina Tops-Alexander and Fellow Castlefield jumped clear this morning and Jamie Winning-Kermond and Tulara Wat Coblensky had a time-fault.

August 20, 2026 – 8:46 AM

Our reporter in Aachen, Pippa Roome, also spoke to US rider Katie Dinan about how she mentally put a disappointing round yesterday behind her and came back with a clear today.

Katie said: “I wish I had a perfect answer for that, because then I’d be able to do it all the time.

“Yesterday I knew what my mistake was and I really tried just to focus on today being a new day and my horse is in form, so I didn’t have to worry about that, and just making a plan when I walked the course and riding her like I know how, riding her the way that got us selected for the team. I was disappointed yesterday because that wasn’t the performance we had.

“But luckily, my three teammates were very good yesterday and so I could come back today. My horse, she was so phenomenal and I knew after we jumped the first two jumps she was right there with me. I just needed to give her the guidance she deserves and I felt like we were both fighting for the clear round."

Katie became emotional when she talked about her ride Out Of The Blue SCF.

“She's a really strong, big lady with a lot of blood and a big jump, and she has her opinions. She likes her time alone. She likes her space, but beneath a tough exterior, she just really fights for me in the ring.

“I feel if I give her the ride she deserves, she never lets me down. I’m just so in love with this horse, I could cry. She’s amazing. She’s made so many of my dreams come true.”

August 20, 2026 – 8:49 AM

Unlucky fence 13 strikes again. Luciana Diniz and Vertigo De Desert knock the last, having had a brilliant round to this point. It’s disappointing news for Brazil which slides down to 17th after three riders. Only the top 10 teams will jump in tomorrow’s final.

August 20, 2026 – 8:55 AM

Young rider Gaëtan Joliat and Chelsea 7 make it three clears for Switzerland. This combination jumped at the young rider Europeans last year, and what a step up to senior championships. Switzerland is currency 11th, but there’s still many teams to go so they may earn that place in tomorrow’s final where the top 10 jump.

August 20, 2026 – 9:00 AM

Defending champions Sweden might not be fighting for the team gold this year, but what a performance their first three riders have put in today. That’s clear from Wilma McMahon and Cici BJN.

Meanwhile, Julio Arias Cueva and Filou Du Manoir have a difficult round for Spain, with poles falling and some time-penalties, to add 20 faults. There’s still one team rider to go, but Julio is likely to be the drop score. Armando Trote jumped clear this moring, and Imma Roquet Autonell had a time-fault, so Spain still has a chance of staying in that final top 10.

August 20, 2026 – 9:10 AM

Giacomo Casadei and Marbella De Chabli have three poles for Italy, knocking fences 6, 7 and 13.

Italy had been sitting comfortable in 7th thanks to two clears this morning from Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del'isle and Emanuele Camillii, but the team will want Giacomo’s score to be the one they discount, and so pressure is on the fourth combination Piergiogio Bucci and Hantano to keep the fences up.

August 20, 2026 – 9:13 AM

Cian O’Connor jumps clear for Ireland with Chatolinue PS. The team is in 13th after three riders; the top 10 will make it through to the final. Hopes fall on final team rider Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz jumping clear and some other teams mistakes.

August 20, 2026 – 9:16 AM

Willem Greve and Grandorado TN N.O.P pick up four-faults after having fence 10 for the Netherlands. While France’s Antoine Ermann and Floyd Des Pres go clear for France.

August 20, 2026 – 9:21 AM

Great Britain’s Adrian Whiteway put in a solid effort with Chacco Volo, but they knock the middle part of the treble combination, the vertical 9b. The 13-year-old gelding looked relaxed in the ring, but as Adrian has said before, he is not the quickest horse.

Ben Maher jumped clear this morning, but Harry Charles had four faults, and so the team slips down to sixth at this stage with Scott Brash still to jump.

August 20, 2026 – 9:24 AM

Team USA are on fire, that’s three clears in the bag. Lillie Keenan and Fasther put in a foot-perfect performance and the team keeps the pressure on at the top.

August 20, 2026 – 9:27 AM

Disappointment at the last for young Belgian rider Thibeau Spits and Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z, who are another to take this fence down. Belgium slips down to fourth after three riders. Nicola Phillippaerts went clear and Pieter Devos had eight faults, so the pressure is on Abdel Said to deliver a clear so they can make Pieter the drop score.

August 20, 2026 – 9:31 AM

Daniel Deusser and Otello De Guldenboom have secured the overnight gold position for Germany with a clear. There were some rattles along the way and gasps from the home crowd, but they came home with the fences still up.

The anchor rider is Richard Vogel and super stallion United Touch S, who had an unfortunate pole yesterday, so they will be hoping for a better round today. However, as only three scores count, Germany will remain in overnight gold no matter what happens thanks to the first three team riders jumping clear.

August 20, 2026 – 9:34 AM

Here's how the team standings look after three riders:

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
3. France 4.99
=4. Belgium 7.69
=4. Italy 7.69
6. Great Britain 8.98
7. Netherlands 9.08
8. Sweden 9.64
9. Spain 10.02
10. Switzerland 10.49

August 20, 2026 – 9:52 AM

Read what Brit Adrian Whiteway had to say following his round with Chacco Volo...

“I’m very, very happy with my horse. It was a really unfortunate one down, but he tried his absolute heart out for me,” said Adrian, who had four-faults at the middle part of the treble combination, fence 9abc.

“The combination was short. I knew that, I’ve been watching 110 horses all day. I was thinking: ‘I'm really going to need him to back up’. I jumped in and thought I jumped in well; I said ‘Whoa’ with my voice, my body, everything, but just ran out of room a little bit, and he just put a toe on it. But I’m very happy with him and how he’s jumping.”

Adrian had nothing but praise for Chacco Volo.

“He's a legend,” said Adrian. “He just goes in there and eats it up, he takes everything in his stride, and just sort of helps me a bit, holds my hand.

“I’m very proud of him.”

August 20, 2026 – 9:55 AM

We are in the fourth and final session as the team anchor riders come forward. Germany and USA can relax a little, with their overnight places sealed by three perfect rounds each, but there’s lots still to play for as teams battle to make into the top 10 final tomorrow.

The top 60 individual riders will also compete, so riders who don't make it through with their team, still have a chance.

August 20, 2026 – 10:04 AM

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August 20, 2026 – 10:14 AM

Read what Irishman Cian O’Connor had to say following his clear round aboard Chatolinue PS. The Irish are lying 13th after three riders.

“I was delighted with Chatolinue, he jumped so well,” said Cian. “It’s difficult, it’s so tight with the teams so close together. More and more at these championships, you see the first day playing a bigger role. I'm not sure if that’s good or bad, it depends what kind of horsepower you have. And with the Irish team, we have a lot of scope and a lot of power, so it's hard for those horses to claw back.

“I thought Darragh’s horse jumped really well, it just had the last fence and Bertram’s guy was super again, just touched off the first. So the pressure was on and I thought I fought hard. Chatolinue tried his heart out, he was really fantastic the whole way.

“Shane is last to go with the wonderful James Kann Cruz, so if he can jump it clear, hopefully we can just scrape into tomorrow's final.”

August 20, 2026 – 10:16 AM

Lillie Keenan confirmed the US's position in second overnight with her clear on Fasther.

Afterwards, she said: “I knew that after yesterday I wanted not to ask for too much control. Jumping a speed round with Fasther, especially in the beginning of the week, can be a little bit challenging because he likes to take over, and I would say that Fasther knows that he knows a lot better than I do – and it’s not just his belief. He is absolutely firm in knowing that. So I have to be a little bit creative and trust our partnership and trust him.

“Today he really reminded me how incredibly special he is in every single way – his personality, but also his ability. He does things that the laws of physics would say are impossible, and I'm just really, really lucky to have him as my partner.”

Lillie also spoke about what it means to her to ride on the team.

“When I was a little girl and I first started to ride, I did not know anything about horse shows, but I knew that there was showjumping as a team sport, and I knew that you could represent our country at a championship. I didn’t know anything really about grands prix, but I wanted to ride for my country,” she said.

“And I think that any time you have an opportunity to represent something bigger than yourself, especially alongside such talented riders, you want to make the most of them.”

August 20, 2026 – 10:21 AM

The final combination for Austria, Bianca Babanitz and I Will Be Famous, have withdrawn. It wasn’t to be for the Austrian team in Aachen; all three riders had faults earlier today leaving the team down in 19th.

August 20, 2026 – 10:23 AM

Here’s what Daniel Deusser had to say after securing the overnight lead for the German team with his clear:

“I’m very delighted with my round and very delighted with my horse. He tried his heart out again. I didn’t want to keep all the pressure for Richie [Vogel], so I thought it would be nice if I could jump a clear round, after we had two very good rounds already,” he said.

“The teams are very close together, so it was important that we go into the last round as a leading team tomorrow.”

Talking about the stride patterns around the course, Daniel added: “I changed these decisions approximately 25 times today. I walked the course at 7.50am this morning, and to be honest, that time I walked it exactly like I rode it now.

“In between, I saw the individuals and a lot of people did six after the green double [fence 5ab]. I thought actually the six looked easy, I could do the six as well. Then just before I got on the horse, I saw a couple go in seven. I said actually, I’d better ride it like I walked this morning, don’t be influenced by anyone else, and luckily it worked out like that.”

August 20, 2026 – 10:25 AM

Andreas Schou and Napoli VH Nederassenthof give Denmark three clears, and a final score today of 11.57. The team is in 12th, so there’s still a chance we see them back tomorrow for the team final if other teams drop down the order this afternoon.

August 20, 2026 – 10:29 AM

Rodrigo Pessoa and Major Tom knock the first part of the treble combination. Only Marlon Modolo Zanotelli managed to jump clear for Brazil, so two four-fault rounds count. Brazil moves down to 17th.

August 20, 2026 – 10:34 AM

We will see Switzerland in the team final.

Jason Smith and Picobello Van’t Roosakker have an early pole for Switzerland and three time-faults to finish on seven faults. The team already has three clears on the board, so this does not affect Switzerland’s place. The team is currently 10th on 10.49 and has guaranteed its spot in tomorrow’s team final. They cannot drop down the order but could move up.

August 20, 2026 – 10:36 AM

A clean sweep for the reigning world champions Sweden with all four riders delivering fault-free rounds. There was a few hairy moments there for team anchor Peder Fredricson and Alcapone Des Carmille but they get they come home with nothing to add. Sweden will be back for tomorrow’s final.

August 20, 2026 – 10:40 AM

Spain’s Alberto Marquez Galobardes had some pressure on his shoulders after his teammate Julio Aras Cueva had 20 faults earlier. Unfortunately it was four-faults for Alberto and Kelly, who had the last part of the combination 9c. Spain counts Alberto’s four-faults, Imma Roquet Autonell’s single time-fault, and pathfinder Armando Trapote’s clear round to finish today on a total 14.02, for 14th currently.

August 20, 2026 – 10:42 AM

Abdullah Alsharbatly and Diriyah’s clear round keeps the door open for Saudi Arabia, which now lies in 12th after four riders.

We have just heard that Israel’s anchor combination Robin Muhr and Foud'Joie de Stel have withdrawn.

August 20, 2026 – 10:47 AM

A fantastic foot-perfect round from Italy’s Piergiorgio Bucci and a guaranteed place in tomorrow’s team final. That’s three clears on the board for the Italians, who sit in fourth currently.

We still have final riders from Ireland, the Netherlands, France, Britain, the USA, Belgium and Germany to go. We already know that Germany is overnight gold and the US in overnight silver following three perfect clears earlier.

August 20, 2026 – 10:52 AM

It really is so close at the top with so little room for error. Harrie Smolders and Mr. Tac knock the planks at fence 3, which plunges the Netherlands down from 7th to 13th after four riders. The best three scores count: Bas Moering (0), Willeme Greve (4) and Harrie (4).

Have they just lost their place in the team final?

August 20, 2026 – 10:54 AM

Shane Sweetnam secures Ireland’s place in tomorrow’s team final. Shane and James Kann Cruz deliver that vital clear and the team can do no worse than overnight 10th.

The top 10 go through tomorrow.

August 20, 2026 – 10:57 AM

Shock for Frenchman Julien Epaillard. The individual leader with Fringan De Vesquerie has had two fences down, the final part of the treble combination 9c and fence 11. This drops the team down to sixth so they’ll still be in the team final, but it’s a big blow for Julien’s individual gold medal hopes. We will bring you the team standings later.

August 20, 2026 – 11:02 AM

The ice cool Scotsman Scott Brash jumps clear for Great Britain with the fabulous Hello Mango. Scott looks to have another star on his hands with this 11-year-old grey mare. Great Britain has a place in tomorrow’s team final, and lies in fifth, while Scott has put keeps within touch of an individual medal.

August 20, 2026 – 11:03 AM

McLain Ward has four-faults with High Star Hero. As his teammates put three clears on the board earlier, McLain will be the drop score, and so there’s no change to team USA’s overnight silver.

August 20, 2026 – 11:06 AM

Abdel Saïd and Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z keep Belgium in overnight bronze with a thrilling clear. The team finish today on a score of 7.69; Pieter Devos’s eight-faults was the drop score.

August 20, 2026 – 11:11 AM

The home crowd were treated to a fourth clear round as the German anchor and European champions Richard Vogel and United Touch S deliver a fault-less round in the big Aachen arena.

The pressure was off Richard, after Marcus Ehning, Sophie Hinners and Daniel Deusser already secured Germany’s provisional gold place earlier, but it was brilliant to see this pair deliver today following four-faults yesterday.

August 20, 2026 – 11:20 AM

What a thrilling second day of action in Aachen in the second team and individual qualifier. The top 10 teams have secured their place in tomorrow evening’s final – and there’s been changes to the individual leaderboard as Scott Brash rises to the top.

Team standings:

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
=3. Belgium 7.69
=3. Italy 7.69
5. Great Britain 8.98
6. France 8.99
7. Sweden 9.64
8. Switzerland 10.49
9. Denmark 11.57
10. Ireland 11.69

Individual standings:

August 20, 2026 – 1:40 PM

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August 20, 2026 – 1:40 PM

That’s a wrap on today’s live reporting. H&H news editor Eleanor Jones takes over tomorrow and will be bringing you all the action from the team final at 5.50pm UK time (6.50pm German time). It’s sure to be an exciting night!

August 21, 2026 – 12:15 PM

All to play for in the team final

Hello, I'm H&H news editor Eleanor Jones and I'm here for the showjumping team final at the World Championships – it's all to play for!

August 21, 2026 – 12:24 PM

So tonight the team medals – and qualification places for the LA Olympics – will be decided.

Here are the current team and individual standings and it's all very close; a pole for any of these will make a big difference. And these scores all carry forward in the individual competition too, which concludes on Sunday.

Team standings:

1. Germany 3.48
2. USA 4.85
=3. Belgium 7.69
=3. Italy 7.69
5. Great Britain 8.98
6. France 8.99
7. Sweden 9.64
8. Switzerland 10.49
9. Denmark 11.57
10. Ireland 11.69

Individual standings:

August 21, 2026 – 12:27 PM

They're going through the team lists in the main stadium – a huge roar for home side Germany, who are in the lead as a team as have two combinations in the individual top three at the moment

August 21, 2026 – 12:32 PM

Irish rider withdraws

Breaking news from Aachen: Darragh Kenny and Eddy Blue will not compete this evening.

Darragh said: “After careful assessment this afternoon, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw Eddy Blue.

“He is a special horse, and his wellbeing has always been, and will always be, my first priority.

“I want to wish the rest of the team every success this evening. I have every confidence they will continue to represent us brilliantly, and I’ll still be here, helping and supporting in every way I can.”

Ireland is still in as a team; as only three scores count so Bertram Allen (Qonquest De Rigo,), Cian O'Connor (Chatolinue PS) and Shane Sweetnam (James Kann Cruz) will still compete.

August 21, 2026 – 12:38 PM

A clear to kick things off, from Carlos Hank Guerreiro and H5 Shaq Attack, but Abdulrahman Alrajhi and Ventago, for Saudi Arabia, retire, having landed in the water, survived a few hairy moments and then had a refusal

August 21, 2026 – 12:41 PM

Stephan de Freitas Barcha and the fabulous Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio are foot-perfect, taking a few strides out here and there compared to Carlos, to add nothing to their score.

August 21, 2026 – 12:44 PM

Anastasia Nielsen and ESI Rocky had to deal with a tack malfunction; the martingale broke and was flapping about but Anastasia did a fabulous job to get home with just four faults to add

August 21, 2026 – 12:47 PM

The legend that is Rodrigo Pessoa and Major Tom just clip the bright yellow vertical to finish on four faults. Time doesn't seem to be a major factor at these very early stages of tonight's competition; no time-faults so far

August 21, 2026 – 12:50 PM

Commentator's curse! Having mentioned the time, the next combination in, Mexico's Eugenio Garza Perez and Contago, jump a lovely clear but just tick over the time allowed for one penalty

August 21, 2026 – 12:53 PM

The top plank comes down for Fernando Martinez Sommer and Joep, who finish on a total score of 9.50

August 21, 2026 – 12:55 PM

Very unlucky for Willem Greve; Grandorado TN NOP clipped the very first fence, the Lindt oxer, then jumped into the combination but had a stop at the second element. Willem elects to jump a fence and retire

August 21, 2026 – 12:58 PM

The rain is coming down harder in Aachen now as Nayel Nassar and ESI Ali of Egypt jump a lovely round, very unlucky to take down the back rail of the very last fence

August 21, 2026 – 1:02 PM

Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen and Equine America Harwich VDL ride a beautiful round for one time-fault. This is Johan-Sebastian's first time on a championship team with dad Geir, who jumps at number 92 this evening

August 21, 2026 – 1:04 PM

Just the second part of the double and a time-fault for Thomas McDermott and Oaks Ventriloquist for Australia, a nice round

August 21, 2026 – 1:07 PM

Argh, that first fence goes again, for Kyle Timm of Canada and Casino Calvin. It must feel a very long way home after that but Kyle rode beautifully to go clear the rest of the way

August 21, 2026 – 1:10 PM

Textbook from Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Enjoy De La Mure for the UAE, what a lovely clear. The crowd is warming up now, clapping them out of the ring

August 21, 2026 – 1:13 PM

Canadian Chris Pratt last rode at a championships 20 years ago, when the worlds were last at Aachen. He and Ideaal ES jumped into the double a bit big and had the second element down to finish on four faults

August 21, 2026 – 1:16 PM

This is one World Championships final Argentina hasn't had a team in this summer but Ignacio Maurin and Conchado are competing as individuals. Two fences and some time-faults means a total of 10

August 21, 2026 – 1:19 PM

It's unusual not to have the Dutch in the team final but their next combination in as individuals was Harrie Smolders and Mr Tac, who had an unexpected eight faults yesterday. They clip the first element of the combination and take the front rail of the Longines oxer to finish on eight again this evening, which puts them out of the running for Sunday's final

August 21, 2026 – 1:22 PM

Ibrahim Hani Bisharat and Lesther for Jordan clip the first element of the triple combination to finish on four

August 21, 2026 – 1:23 PM

There seem to be lots of options on this course; the five strides from 8 to 9 and the six from 9 to the double at 10, and to the open water, seem to be consistent but we're seeing riders take different lines and numbers of strides just about everywhere else

August 21, 2026 – 1:25 PM

Great riding from Armando Trapote, who goes clear with the fiery Tornado VS for Spain. Armando punches the air in triumph, then gives Tornado a hug

August 21, 2026 – 1:28 PM

New Zealand's Sophie Scott and Normandy GHP have had a super week but clip the first element of the double then take the last oxer down for eight

August 21, 2026 – 1:31 PM

Anna Simicska and Kansas Vl for Hungary are another combination caught out by that first fence, the Lindt oxer. They also can't quite clear the last element of the triple, and the first element of the double goes too but she held it together to finish on the 12 plus two time-faults

August 21, 2026 – 1:34 PM

Patricio Pasquel and Chakkalou PS for Mexico are the first to fault at the wall; a couple of bricks ping out, then the Longines oxer goes too and Patricio couldn't quite get right to the double afterwards. Clears it on a second try but have to add 27 time-faults to their 12 jumping penalties

August 21, 2026 – 1:36 PM

The next Spanish combination, Imma Roquet Autonell and Irivola Del Maset, had not had a fence down so far these championships but Imma went on seven strides rather than six to the double and had the second element down to finish on four plus one time-fault

August 21, 2026 – 1:40 PM

Colombia now, it's Roberto Teran Tafur and Dez’ Ooktoff, who is now 18. What a lovely clear for this combination, who know each other inside out after eight years together

August 21, 2026 – 1:43 PM

Bas Moerings for the Netherlands rides Ipsthar, who was bred by his family. They rattle the Turkish Airlines oxer, put an extra stride into the water, and have a foot in it for four faults. A bit deep to the double and the first element goes; they finish on the eight

August 21, 2026 – 1:45 PM

Edwina Tops-Alexander, who also competed here at the 2006 worlds, clips the yellow vertical and the red-and-white oxer with Fellow Castlefield, to finish on eight

August 21, 2026 – 1:48 PM

Jaroslaw Skrzyczynski and Komboy for Poland are a bit forward into the double and have the first element down, and the last goes too for eight faults

August 21, 2026 – 1:51 PM

The next Saudi Arabian rider is Khaled Almobty with Diana Du Plevau Z, who get a big cheer as they canter to the start. Khaled starts in a strong canter but that pesky first Lindt fence goes again, as does the first element of the double, a triple bar. a rub on the Liverpool but they finish on eight faults

August 21, 2026 – 1:54 PM

The last combination competing as individuals is Luke Dee and Gangster WW for New Zealand, who come into tonight after two clear rounds here so far, and you can see why; this horse has all the jump. High over the water! But sadly the yellow vertical, the Longines oxer and the first element of the double fall in quick succession. Luke gets it back together but the last goes too, and they clock up five time-faults

August 21, 2026 – 1:55 PM

That's the last of the individuals; there's a quick break (5-6 minutes) until the first of the team riders. Time to put the kettle on (or pour a glass of wine) and we'll be back shortly after this message from our sponsors...

August 21, 2026 – 2:03 PM

We hear from Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen of Norway after his one time-fault round with Equine America Harwich VDL.

“It’s just an incredible atmosphere – it just felt amazing. It’s the best feeling in the world to jump round, to do your best, your horse, your team. It means a lot to everyone.”

August 21, 2026 – 2:05 PM

I can’t describe the feeling; my horse was unreal today. Every jump was incredible. He’s a fighter, I’m so happy to have a horse like that
Armando Trapote, Spain

August 21, 2026 – 2:12 PM

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August 21, 2026 – 2:14 PM

Isabell Werth has been spotted in the audience, might she be considering a change of discipline...?!

August 21, 2026 – 2:18 PM

And we're off with the team combinations. First in is Zascha Nygaard with COM’on Drako De Maugre for Denmark, who takes out the last element of the combination then has a foot in the water. The first element of the double goes too and Zascha calls it a day, so all the remaining Danish riders’ scores will have to count

August 21, 2026 – 2:21 PM

Next in is the legendary Steve Guerdat with Dynamix De Bélhème, Olympic silver medallists and 2023 European champions. Steve gets a bit vocal as he encourages this lovely mare through the combination and they clear it, and everything else. Clear for Switzerland and they hold their individual third place

August 21, 2026 – 2:24 PM

Sweden next, the reigning team world champions. Petronella Andersson and Odina Van Klapscheut tap the last element of the triple; it stays up but they have a foot in the water, then stop at the wall. The Longines oxer goes and Petronella retires so again, the remaining three riders’ scores will have to count for Sweden.

August 21, 2026 – 2:27 PM

France next; rising star Nina Mallevaey and Dynastie De Beaufour just clip the back rail going into the double; that's a huge triple bar. They finish on four

August 21, 2026 – 2:30 PM

Britain's Ben Maher lets the fabulous Point Break have a good look at the water before he starts. High over the water, what a fantastic clear to get Britain off to the perfect start in this team final! That's their third clear round this week and they stay on 1.01 penalties, fifth place individually

August 21, 2026 – 2:32 PM

Oof, a clear in the bag for Britain and we can relax a bit as Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del’isle come in for Italy. They tap the Longines oxer and the first element of the double; both stay up but their luck doesn’t hold and the second element goes for four faults in total

August 21, 2026 – 2:35 PM

Nicola Philippaerts for Belgium with the lovely mare Katanga VH Dingeshof. They came eighth individually at the last worlds but the top yellow plank falls today. A bit deep to the wall but it stays up, a bit high over the red-and-white oxer and that goes; they finish on eight.

August 21, 2026 – 2:39 PM

The US pathfinders are the superstars Laura Kraut and Baloutinue. The US came into tonight in second place to Germany and they retain that place despite the fact the middle element of the combination falls, as thie four-fault round could be the drop score. This will drop them down significantly from the seventh place they held individually though

August 21, 2026 – 2:41 PM

I have said "legendary" a few times tonight but it definitely applies to this man, Marcus Ehning, who's first in for Germany with Coolio 42. They put in an extra stride to the water but it's all good, a huge gasp from the crowd as they get close to the black vertical but they're clear, and just inside the time.

August 21, 2026 – 2:44 PM

The crowd was still cheering Marcus and Coolio, including his tearful family, as the first Irish rider came in. Bertram Allen had pressure on his shoulders as the withdrawal of Darragh Kenny and Eddy Blue means his and Qonquest De Rigo’s round had to count. They were flying but that first element of the double fell for a score of four

August 21, 2026 – 2:47 PM

The second Danish combination is Laura Baaring Kjaergaard and Qarisma Van’t Roosakker. They clip the first element of the combination and the second of the tricky double. As Zascha had to retire, this eight faults will have to count for Denmark.

August 21, 2026 – 2:50 PM

Martin Fuchs is next for Switzerland with the ultra-scopey Connor Jei. They go a bit high over the Longines oxer and it comes down; four for Switzerland but this could be the drop score

August 21, 2026 – 2:53 PM

We hear from Ben Maher, who said Point Break felt “perfect” today.

“ He didn’t felt quite himself yesterday, maybe from going a bit quicker the first day, but today I got him out twice, just quietly hacking him around, so he was nice and relaxed,” he said.

“He hasn't jumped under lights too much but I knew his quality would come through with the different lighting this evening, and it was about keeping him brave and relaxed. He went in and he gave me the exact plan, the exact ride I had planned and visualised. When that happens, there’s not a lot to say really. It doesn't happen very often, but he was absolute perfection for me this evening. I’m very proud of him and my team. It’s a long long road to get these horses from a young horse all the way to this level.”

Ben said he thought the course tonight was big but fair.

“He’s playing with a lot of distances and scope today, but when Point Break does what he does like that, it makes my job as a rider a little easier,” he said.

August 21, 2026 – 2:54 PM

Reigning world champion Henrick von Eckermann has both bits of the double with Minute Man, which Sweden has to count after Petronella retired

August 21, 2026 – 2:56 PM

Olivier Perreau and GL Events Dorai D’Aiguilly tap a few fences and their luck runs out at the red-and-white oxer; four faults so France definitely has four to add to the total

August 21, 2026 – 2:59 PM

Yes, Harry! He and the superb LT Holst Freda absolutely flew for Britain’s second clear of the night; what riding from Harry, who has only had her three months. This means Britain has nothing to add so far tonight

August 21, 2026 – 3:02 PM

Emanuele Camilli and Chacareno PS looked in great form but after an unexpected stop at the second element of the combination, Emanuele calls it a day. This means Giulia’s four faults has to count, and Italy move down into sixth place, Britain up to fourth

August 21, 2026 – 3:04 PM

That yellow plank goes for Pieter Devos and Casual DV Z. They have to count it after Nicola’s eight so that drops Belgium to fifth and Britain moves up into third

August 21, 2026 – 3:05 PM

Laura Kraut says Baloutinue was “a little slippy on the ground”; she has advised the rest of the team is to go up a size in studs from the last two days.

August 21, 2026 – 3:07 PM

Katie Dinan is in next for the US with Out Of The Blue SCF. They rub that Lindt oxer at fence one but it stays up. she encourages the mare on through the combination but they can’t quite clear the last element, she rides past the next fence and pulls up. This means Laura’s four has to count but the US stays second, 0.13 ahead of Britain

August 21, 2026 – 3:11 PM

The German stars Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair came in as the second-placed individuals in the competition. What a horse, what a rider. One time-fault drops them down a bit but Germany stays in the lead and 40,000 people make it clear just how they feel about that!

August 21, 2026 – 3:12 PM

We hear from Harry Charles after his and Freda’s fabulous clear.

Harry said this was a very tough proper championship course, and the floodlights play their part in the pressure.

“The atmosphere is amazing, and I’m very happy to get a clear, finally,” he said.

Harry said after yesterday’s disappointment, “I had to get over myself, to be honest”.

“It was pretty low day yesterday,” he said. “I’ve knocked jumps down plenty of times, but yesterday really sucked.

August 21, 2026 – 3:29 PM

Heartbreak for Cian O’Connor and Chatolinue PS as the very last rail hits the turf; and every score has to count now for Ireland. They are in ninth place.

August 21, 2026 – 3:30 PM

Denmark’s Caroline Rehoff Pedersen and Polonis L just clip the red-and-white oxer. Their four has to count so Denmark goes 10th and Ireland are ninth.

August 21, 2026 – 3:32 PM

Rising young star Gaëtan Joliat and Chelsea Z just clip the rail before the combination, the first time that’s fallen tonight, and the Longines oxer falls too. Eight for Switzerland; that could be their drop score and they sit in seventh place.

August 21, 2026 – 3:33 PM

We hear from Harry Charles after his and Freda’s fabulous clear.

Harry said this was a very tough proper championship course, and the floodlights play their part in the pressure.

“The atmosphere is amazing, and I’m very happy to get a clear, finally,” he said.

Harry said after yesterday’s disappointment, “I had to get over myself, to be honest”.

“It was pretty low day yesterday,” he said. “I’ve knocked jumps down plenty of times, but yesterday really sucked.

August 21, 2026 – 3:35 PM

The luck isn’t with Wilma McMahon and Cicci BJN tonight; their 16 faults has to count for Sweden, which puts them 10th. Ireland move up to eighth

August 21, 2026 – 3:38 PM

The first two elements of the combination fall for Antoine Ermann and Floyd Des Pres. France now has to count eight, Nina and Olivier’s four each, so sit seventh.

August 21, 2026 – 3:41 PM

That Lindt oxer has been hugely troublesome tonight and it fell for Britain’s Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo. Very well ridden by Adrian through the combination but they knock the first element of the double, and the second falls too. Adrian holds it together to finish with three time-faults but this 15 could be the drop score after Harry and Ben’s clears so Britain stays in third. The pressure is now on Scott and Hello Mango

August 21, 2026 – 3:43 PM

The Lindt fence goes again! Giacamo Casadei and Marbella Du Chabli knock the Liverpool too and they finish on eight, which drops Italy to eighth and Ireland climb to seventh.

August 21, 2026 – 3:46 PM

A key round for Belgium, and potentially for the medals; Thibeau Spits and Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z tapped the first element of the double but it stayed up. A superb clear inside the time to keep Belgium in fourth place, less than three penalties behind Britain

August 21, 2026 – 3:49 PM

Lillie Keenan and Fasther become the latest to be caught out by that Lindt oxer, and the Liverpool goes too. The US has to count this as Katie retired so they drop to fifth – Britain goes second

August 21, 2026 – 3:52 PM

Daniel Deusser and Otello De Guldenboom secure gold for the home team, with a fence and a rider in hand. Despite a tap on the yellow vertical, they pull it out of the bag, the silence during the round only matched by the roar from the crowd afterwards. As was the case for Sweden four years ago, the championship is decided before the final rider goes in. Pure class.

August 21, 2026 – 3:56 PM

It's the turn of the final riders and it's Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz for Ireland. The judges checked the tape after they cleared the water and they were fine but the first element of the double hit the turf. Gutting for Ireland, ninth place currently; an Olympic place hangs in the balance.

August 21, 2026 – 3:59 PM

Andreas Schou and Napoli vh Nederassenthof jumped clear yesterday with to secure Denmark’s place in this team final but it wasn’t to be tonight. That Lindt oxer went again; four faults puts them in ninth and Ireland eighth – that means an Olympic ticket for Ireland.

August 21, 2026 – 4:02 PM

Last in for Switzerland is Scottish-born Jason Smith with Picobello van't Roosakker. they go high over the Lindt oxer to start and it falls again – has the first fence ever gone down this many times? The rest stay up but they clock up two time-faults, which drops Switzerland to seventh but secures Olympic qualification.

August 21, 2026 – 4:05 PM

Peder Fredricson’s Alcapone Des Carmille was a bit hesitant at the planks and the top one came down. Beautifully ridden through the combination but the Longines oxer falls and Peder pulls up before the next fence. He tries again; he knew he had to finish with a score after a retirement, but it’s 31 faults in total and 10th place for Sweden.

August 21, 2026 – 4:07 PM

Julien Epaillard and Fringan De Vesquerie are last to go for France; a tap on the middle element of the combination, super through the double but the red-and-white oxer falls, as does the next. Eight faults and France go eighth. Ireland move to seventh.

August 21, 2026 – 4:11 PM

Scott Brash and Hello Mango secure bronze at least for Britain – and an Olympic place! The Lindt oxer that has shattered so many dreams tonight fell but Scott rode superbly to jump clear the rest of the way, which means a place on the podium for Britain

August 21, 2026 – 4:13 PM

Piergiorgio Bucci and Hantano are last in for Italy, and what a way to finish things for the team. A super clear means they go into sixth place individually and Italy fifth, Olympic place secured.

August 21, 2026 – 4:13 PM

So if Abdel Said goes clear, Belgium get silver; one down and Britain will take it

August 21, 2026 – 4:16 PM

Abdel Said and Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z touched the Lindt oxer – is the ground not as good as it was earlier? – but it stayed up, and the same at the first element of the double. But they all stay up, and Abdel has done it – team silver for Belgium, bronze for Britain.

August 21, 2026 – 4:17 PM

So that's it: gold for Germany, silver for Belgium, bronze for Britain. Anyone with any fingernails left, or without dents on your face from peering through your fingers? We can all relax now and watch the last few

August 21, 2026 – 4:19 PM

McLain Ward’s High Star Hero is giving the fences plenty of air. Wonderful riding from McLain; a fabulous clear keeps the US fourth and in the Olympic places.

August 21, 2026 – 4:23 PM

Last in, and what a night it’s been. There was no pressure on European champions Richard Vogel and United Touch S as far as team medals went as gold was in the bag for Germany, so the crowd could just take in their outstanding performance. Just two time-faults clocked up as the rain started to pour down, and the crowd clapped their every stride. Superb.

August 21, 2026 – 4:26 PM

Final results

1: Germany, 4.48

2: Belgium, 11.69

3: Britain, 12.98

4: USA, 16.85

5: Italy, 19.69

6: Switzerland, 20.49

7: Ireland, 23.69

8: France: 24.99

9: Denmark: 28.57

Sweden: 64.64

August 21, 2026 – 5:29 PM

We couldn't finish without a medal-winning selfie! (Image credit: Kirsty Paso)

August 21, 2026 – 5:30 PM

Thank you for enjoying a fabulous night of showjumping with us! That's it for tonight, but you can read the full reports on our World Championships on our dedicated hub, and we'll be back on Sunday from soon after 1pm for the individual final. Over and out.

August 23, 2026 – 8:11 AM

Sunday 23 August: showjumping individual final

Hello, it's H&H news editor Eleanor Jones with you this afternoon, for the showjumping World Championships individual final. The top 25 combinations jump the first round, in reverse order, then the top 12 return for the final showdown.

August 23, 2026 – 8:16 AM

Three Brits – Harry Charles and Freda, Scott Brash and Hello Mango and Ben Maher and Point Break – are on the start list and less than eight faults, or two fences, separates the top 25.

August 23, 2026 – 8:21 AM

There has been one withdrawal; Jordanian Ibrahim Hani Bisharat decided not to start with Lesther, with whom he had qualified in 25th place.

He said having spoken to his father, and trainer Jos Lasink, he made the call.

“Lesther has given me an incredible championship with three fantastic rounds, and I couldn’t be prouder of him,” he said. “He’s still green at this level, but stepped up every time I asked and gave me everything he had. I know he would do the same again tomorrow, but his best interest will always come first.

“To finish this championship in the top 25 in the world with him is something I’m incredibly proud of. I feel this is the right moment to finish on a good note and let him leave with the confidence he deserves.

“Thank you to everyone who has been behind us. And most of all, thank you Lesther. A championship I’ll never forget.

”Wishing everyone the best of luck in tomorrow’s final.”

Irivola del Maset and Imma Roquet Autonell replace them for Spain, and start first.

August 23, 2026 – 8:24 AM

So it's Imma Roquet Autonell and and Irivola del Maset who kick things off in front of packed stands. They were on 8.69, but added four to that by knocking the first fence, a yellow vertical. Lovely riding through the triple combination, and all the way round, and they come home with one time-fault to finish on 13.69 in total. A lovely round

August 23, 2026 – 8:26 AM

Carlos Hank Guerreiro of Mexico is next, with H5 Shaq Attack, starting today on 7.43. Lost a bit of impulsion through the combination and the last element fell, then they had a foot in the water. They finish with eight to add, so a total of 15.43

August 23, 2026 – 8:30 AM

Absolute class from Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda. After their superb clear helped secure team bronze for Britain on Friday, they jump another foot-perfect clear to add nothing to their score, and finish on 7.17. They've been getting better and better all week, and this was brilliant.

August 23, 2026 – 8:32 AM

The second Mexican combination is Eugenio Garza Perez and Contago, who came in on 6.85. They were going very well but just didn't quite have tie stride to clear the second element of the double of ditches, so they finish on 10.85.

August 23, 2026 – 8:35 AM

McLain Ward and High Star Hero started on 6.82 for the US. Unlucky to have the back bar of the early red oxer down, and the Longines vertical goes too. They add eight to finish on 14.82, which means Harry and Freda move up two places.

August 23, 2026 – 8:38 AM

Caroline Rehoff Pedersen and Polonis L have had a super week for Denmark. They came in on 6.53 but just had an issue with the combination; the second and third elements fell, as did the Longines vertical. The last goes too; it's the Lindt fence that caused so many problems on Friday but it's a vertical now, and time-faults mean they finish on 23.53

August 23, 2026 – 8:40 AM

Brazilian Stephan de Freitas Barcha and Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipicio came in on 6.35. A beautiful round but the stretch to the second of the double of ditches was just a bit far and it fell for a final score of 10.35

August 23, 2026 – 8:42 AM

Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen has had a brilliant first worlds with Equine America Harwich VDL for Norway but again it was the gold combination that caused an issue; the middle element fell and their final score is 10.34

August 23, 2026 – 8:46 AM

Shane Sweetnam for Ireland next, with the wonderful James Kann Cruz, who looked full of jumping on this final day. It was a beautiful round but the very last fence, the Lindt vertical, hit the turf. The final score is 10.28

August 23, 2026 – 8:48 AM

Nina Mallevaey and Dynastie De Beaufour started in fine style for France. A couple of taps on the combination – which is 1.60m high for the first two elements, then a 1.55m oxer out – but they jump a super round, only the second clear of the afternoon, to finish on 5.93

August 23, 2026 – 8:51 AM

Next in is Thibeau Spits with Impress-K Van’t Kettenheye Z, who already have a team silver medal under their belt this week. Another lovely clear, one stride fewer to the last; they finish on 5.6

August 23, 2026 – 8:54 AM

European champions Richard Vogel and United Touch S have already won team gold this week, and the crowd clapped them every stride into the ring, then went absolutely silent. They had time-faults on Friday but perhaps trying to avoid them today, Richard came tight back to the wall and United Touch stopped. No problem on the second attempt and they were flying again – only four strides from the triple bar to the water, which no one else has done – and they finish clear, on a final score of 15.38.

August 23, 2026 – 8:57 AM

Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del’isle for Italy got a bit deep to the first, a yellow vertical, and had it down. a slight altercation to the Longines vertical and it goes, as does the second of the double of ditches, for a final score of 17.13

August 23, 2026 – 9:00 AM

Laura Kraut walks Baloutinue in on a long rein as normal, and lets him have a good look round. A lovely round but a foot just in the water meant four to add; they finish on 9.06.

August 23, 2026 – 9:03 AM

The UAE’s OmarnAbdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Enjoy De La Mure looked on as good form as they have been all week; it was a fantastic round but the very last Lindt fence fell for a final score of 9.06.

We're now into the top 10, who are all within four faults in scores

August 23, 2026 – 9:05 AM

It's the turn of Scott Brash and Hello Mango, who secured team bronze for Britain on Friday night. Scott showed some superb horsemanship to get through the combination but as she'd gone a bit high over the wall, the six to the Longines oxer wasn't quite there and they clipped it. A final score of 8.8

August 23, 2026 – 9:07 AM

Armando Tropote and Tonrado VS went rocketing up the leaderboard for Spain with their clear on Friday. They started today on 4.57 and Armando rode the fiery, fabulous little horse beautifully but again the last fell. A final score of 8.57

August 23, 2026 – 9:10 AM

Harry Charles and Freda have confirmed their place in the next round, as Colombian Roberto Teran Tafur and the 18-year-old Dez’ Ooktoff come in looking in fine form. A couple of taps in the combination, and on that last fence, but both stay put and they go into the lead on 3.58

August 23, 2026 – 9:13 AM

We’re really at the sharp end now. Next in is Piergiorgio Bucci and Hantano for Italy, on 3.57 and they fly round to stay on that score and cruise into the final round. Fabulous jumping

August 23, 2026 – 9:15 AM

Now it's the turn of Abdel Said and Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z, who pulled a superb claar out of the bag to secure team silver for Belgium on Friday. They looked on fine form but were they at a slight angle to the wavy planks? they become the first to have that down, for a final score of 6.63

August 23, 2026 – 9:18 AM

You can tell just by the applause that it’s another German combination coming in! The fantastic Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair, team gold medallists already this week, looked as strong as they did on the first day but that very last fence went – their first fence down of the week – and they finish on 5.84

August 23, 2026 – 9:21 AM

From one German star pair to another; Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42 came in on 1.78, fourth place, looking in top form, but there was the slightest of hesitations before the wavy plank and it fell. Clear otherwise; they finish on 5.78 and stay in fourth at this stage

August 23, 2026 – 9:25 AM

We’re into the top three and first of these is Ben Maher and Point Break for Britain. They were absolutely flying, the little stallion looking on top form, but somehow Point Break stopped at the wavy planks. They cleared it on the second attempt, and everything else, but the stop and time-faults buts them down to 17th, on 11.01

August 23, 2026 – 9:27 AM

Olympic silver medallists Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme started today in the silver-medal position, on 0.86. This super mare had her ears pricked throughout this perfect clear; they stay in second and on that 0.86 score

August 23, 2026 – 9:30 AM

The leaders coming into this, Germany’s Daniel Deusser and Otello De Guldenboom, secured the team gold on Friday night as the third combination to go. They started strong but the early Allianz oxer fell. They finish on a total of 4.86 and drop to fourth place.

August 23, 2026 – 9:32 AM

So it’s been all change in the leaderboard in this first round. Steve Guerdat and Dynamix now lead and Britain has two combinations in the second round; Harry and Freda in 10th place and Scott and Hello Mango 12th.

August 23, 2026 – 9:47 AM

We hear from Harry after his superb round with Freda today, which meant they moved up to 10th place – although at that time, he did not realise he had a place in the final today.

“That was a pretty perfect way, maybe to end the championship,” he said. “Obviously, I was coming from the back with not much pressure on, the pressure was on the other guys today.

“I wanted to just go in, jump clear, there was not much to lose, a lot to gain.”

Harry, who plays a lot of golf, said in that sport he would say he was “in the clubhouse”.

“I’m just so pleased with her,” he said. “I’m actually happy with myself today as well; I thought I gave her a pretty good ride, and as big as it was, she made it feel very easy. So selfishly speaking, I was hoping for something a bit tougher – not that it isn’t very tough, but I’m coming from the back. I need a lot of faults from the guys in front!”

Harry said it is a very big course but the horses have grown into the ring by this fourth day of jumping; maybe if this were just a grand prix it would be a harder ride.

Harry again said that in May, he had no plans to be here and was “probably going to watch it on an iPad’. But then Freda came along.

Harry said Ewan Mackintosh, Freda’s New Zealand breeder, is there and came to see her this morning.

“And when we go to LA, we’re going to very much be in the minds of reclaiming our title.”

August 23, 2026 – 9:49 AM

“In this modern era of characterless, flat, sand showjumping rings, how refreshing for a championship to be held on grass, where the natural undulations, not just the technicality of the fences, sift out all but the very best riders”
H&H columnist William Funnell

Read William’s exclusive insight to the World Championships in the bumper special report in next week's magazine, in shops Thursday 27 August.

August 23, 2026 – 9:50 AM

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August 23, 2026 – 10:00 AM

We hear from Ben Maher, who had a heartbreaking stop at the wavy planks with Point Break this afternoon.

“It was just a small mistake, not good enough at this level,” he said.

“He was jumping well, made a big effort in the triple combination, and just away from the gate, the triple bar was big for him,” he said. “He jumped it well but I had to react fast to correct where I landed on the water, which was was good riding. But then probably paid for it afterwards. He got a little unsettled, I tried to settle him down, and he just took his eye to the right, right before the plank.

“That’s what I felt, and I just looked at the video and it was just enough to distract him, and he took his eye off the jump for a very, very split second, and didn’t pick up. So I’m disappointed, but overall he jumped well, and just expected more from today.”

August 23, 2026 – 10:03 AM

US rider Laura Kraut said Baloutinue jumped outstandingly today – he was very unlucky to have four faults at the water.

“I think he thinks he had a clear round; I don’t think he has any idea he touched the tape,” she said. “It’s the first time in the whole time I’ve ever ridden him that I’ve even come close to the tape, and I'm actually I am disappointed. But he’s just been a champion all week.”

August 23, 2026 – 10:11 AM

So here’s the top 12, who come back to jump again in reverse order in the final round:

Steve Guerdat, Dynamix De Belheme, 0.86
Piergiorgia Bucci, Hantano, 3.57
Roberto Teran Tafur, Dez’ Ooktoff, 3.58
Daniel Deusser, Otello De Guldenboom, 4.86
Thibeau Spits, Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z, 5.6
Marcus Ehning, Coolio 42, 5.78
Sophie Hinners, Iron Dames Singclair, 5.84
Nina Mallevaey, Dynastie Du Beaufour, 5.93
Abdel Said, Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles z, 6.63
Harry Charles, LT Holst Freda, 7.17
Armando Trapote, tornado VS, 8.57
Scott Brash, Hello Mango, 8.8

August 23, 2026 – 10:13 AM

This is it, 12 rounds to decide the medals, as two weeks of top equestrian sport in Aachen draws to a close today. Are you ready?!

August 23, 2026 – 10:25 AM

You can feel the tension in the air as the first for this final round, Scott Brash and Hello Mango, come into the ring to applause from this 40,000-strong crowd.

They’re off strong, but there's drama at the combination. Mango catches the first element, hits the second and Scott comes off almost under Mango’s feet as she jumps the last element. Scott is now on his feet; he was under the pole briefly but walks out of the ring, and Mango is also fine

August 23, 2026 – 10:28 AM

Armando Trapote and the lovely, fiery little Tornado VS just clipped the second element of the double; that’s a short one stride in there. The combination falls late, and the second-last does too, for a final score of 20.57

August 23, 2026 – 10:31 AM

Please can we stop and salute the fabulous horsemanship of Harry Charles, and the mega mare LT Holst Freda? This combination has only been together a couple of months and they've just jumped another clear in the individual World championship final. Absolutely superb from start to finish

August 23, 2026 – 10:33 AM

Abdel Said was so unlucky to have a fence earlier with Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z. They started well today but had a stop at the first element of the double, a slight miscommunication perhaps. They jump in on a second attempt but it’s another stop at the second element but this pair have had a fabulous week, clinching silver for Belgium under huge pressure on Friday.

August 23, 2026 – 10:35 AM

Nina Mallevaey and Dynastie De Beaufour were a bit deep to the Longines oxer and it came down. Four to add plus a time-fault, 10.93 final score

August 23, 2026 – 10:38 AM

Germany now; Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singclair looked to have a great shot to the double but the first element went, then the white oxer. A time-fault means a 14.84 final score. Harry Charles and Freda are still in the lead with the only clear so far in this final round.

August 23, 2026 – 10:40 AM

Marcus Ehning and Coolio 42 for Germany next. His horse lost a shoe early in the last round, it emerges. He's now reshod but the first element of the double goes again. Quick to the last, they finish on 9.78. Harry and Freda still in the lead, five competitors to come.

August 23, 2026 – 10:43 AM

Thibeau Spits and Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z jumped a fabulous clear earlier. A beautiful eight strides to the double, a breather before the FEI plank, a tap on the last element of the combination – and the second clear of this round takes them into the lead at this stage on 5.6. Harry Charles and Freda in second place.

August 23, 2026 – 10:46 AM

Daniel Deusser and Otello De Guldenboom were in the lead this morning but had a fence for a score of 4.86 going into this final round. A couple of early taps, including in the tricky double, some gasps from the crowd and their luck held till the very last fence. Heartbreak as this puts them out of the medals, final score 8.86. He goes third, Harry Charles still second

August 23, 2026 – 10:48 AM

Colombia’s Roberto Teran Tafur encourages Dez’ Ooktoff clear through the double. They’re strong and looking good but the last element of the combination goes. Harry and Freda still second with two combinations to go, Roberto third.

August 23, 2026 – 10:51 AM

Piergiorgia Bucci rides Hantano beautifully but the very last fence goes again. Absolute heartbreak – but this means a medal for Harry and Freda!

August 23, 2026 – 10:52 AM

Absolutely incredible sport in this final. The last in decides everything; Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme

August 23, 2026 – 10:55 AM

Last in, Olympic silver medallists and 2023 European champions Steve Guerdat and Dynamix De Belheme had a fence in hand. This is such a tough course but like the absolute pros they are, they do it in perfect style. Gold for Steve, silver for Thibeau Spits – and bronze for Harry Charles and Freda – who were in 23rd place this morning! Absolutely fantastic.

August 23, 2026 – 10:57 AM

So well deserved for Dynamix, the only horse not to have had a fence down all week. Also, Harry and Freda – the partnership that have only been together a few months — were in 59th place at the end of Thursday, third today and on the podium. Top class

August 23, 2026 – 12:24 PM

What a week – what a fortnight! Medals of every colour, in every discipline, three Olympic and one Paralympic place achieved. Absolutely fabulous; a huge well done to all the horses, riders, owners, grooms and vast support teams.

Thank you for being with us on the live blog, and we hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have. Do check back for full reports on the medal winners and British riders on our Worlds showjumping news page. And pick up a copy of Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 27 August for in-depth analysis of where the medals were won and lost.

Over and out.

August 23, 2026 – 2:48 PM

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We hope you’ve enjoyed all our reports on the World Championships, including exclusive insight from our reporters on the ground in Aachen.

From A-grade A levels to Hickstead grand prix win in two days, talented teenager takes it all in her stride

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 12:41:57 +0000

Acing your A levels then winning a grand prix at Hickstead – it’s all in a week’s work for Izabella Rogers.

The 18-year-old rider and her mother Nicola’s Diagolda PS triumphed in a stellar field in the Cheval Liberté 1.30m grand prix on Saturday (15 August), at the Al Shira’aa British Young Horse Championships.

Diagolda had not been to a show since January as Izabella was preparing for her exams – in which, as she found out days before, she achieved two A* grades and an A.

“I’m super pleased with that – I can ride horses for a bit longer now!” she said, adding that she thought Hickstead would be a good show to “get her back into the swing of it.”

The pair were 15th of 22 in the jump-off, which included speed merchants Matt Sampson and Harriet Biddick, not to mention Lottie Tutt, who came second by quarter of a second with Billy Dynamite. Their round was smooth and harmonious, Izabella forward all the way, taking advantage of the mare’s effortless speed.

“I wasn’t going for the win!” she said. “I was just going for a confident, clean round to get her back into it, but after fence one, I just landed in a perfect rhythm and thought I’d just keep going. She’s got a massive stride and I can dare her and she just keeps going. I’m super pleased.”

Izabella is to start an online psychology degree, allowing more time to ride and go to shows.

“Having two years of not really competing, I’m hungry to get out there and start proving myself again,” she said.

Shane Breen takes British Young Horse Championships 1.40m grand prix

The 1.40m grand prix at this show was one of the only Hickstead titles Shane Breen hadn’t won – but he changed all that with a horse he thinks will be a key player for him.

Shane and CSF Thomascourt Zena saw off 54 other combinations, of whom only seven others made it to the jump-off, to beat William Funnell and Billy Tutu by half a second. The Irish-bred mare showed her huge scope and phenomenal acceleration, taking a stride out to the double, and to the last, to keep her nose in front.

“I’m delighted,” Shane said. “She’s been stepping up this last couple of weeks so I was quietly confident and looking forward to it. Ben Townley and his team built a super course, and there were quick ones in the jump-off so I thought if I’m clear I’ll try to give them enough to do, to hopefully risk having a fence down, and it worked in my favour.”

Zena had success with Sandy Mclean in Abu Dhabi early this year, and Shane has jumped her at 1.45m level recently.

“She’s taken it all in her stride,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to next year with her, I think she’ll be a key player in my team. She’s perfect for an old fella like me! As she’s simple. She’s lovely, very sweet and intelligent, very comfortable and careful; she ticks all the boxes.”

Shane added that winning this title means the only major Hickstead class he hasn’t won so far is the King George V Gold Cup – so watch this space.

Read the full championships report in this week’s H&H magazine, out 20 August.

To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

How to watch the Showjumping World Championships live from anywhere in the world

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Watch the showjumping World Championships live from Aachen this week and witness some of the most impressive sport at the highest level.

The showjumping World Championships will run over four days. Over the week, we’re expecting more than 170 starters from 30 nations – check out the showjumping World Championships form guide to find out who your favourite horses and riders are up against.

You can find more information about how to follow other sports at the 2026 FEI World Championships on our how to watch the FEI World Championships hub. And if you decide not to watch on TV, you can follow our showjumping World Championships live reports for exclusive updates.

At a glance

Showjumping World Championship dates: 19–23 August 2026
Watch on TV: ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV
Watch for free: RTBF (Belgium) / CBC (Canada) / ZDF (Germany) / SVT Play (Sweden)
Watch the showjumping from anywhere: Use this NordVPN deal – 75% Off

How to watch the showjumping World Championships on TV

There is no complete terrestrial TV coverage of the showjumping World Championships in the UK or US. ClipMyHorse.TV and FEI.TV will be the only place you can follow all the action live or on demand. ClipMyHorse.TV is showing every session across all sports during the fortnight of competition in Aachen.

This will be complete live coverage of the World Championships, including all disciplines, with additional editorial content and multiple commentary options for a complete viewing experience.

Find the broadcast schedule for showjumping below.

If you’re away from home, you can use NordVPN to secure your stream of the action from anywhere in the world.

ClipMyHorse.TV discount code

You can save 26% on a ClipMyHorse.TV subscription until 23 August 2026 with code AACHEN26.

This discount is for new and returning customers without an active membership – this brings the cost to around £154 for your first year’s subscription.

Visit tv.fei.org to claim your discount.

ClipMyHorse.TV commentary options

ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV is available to viewers across the world with the following commentary options for the showjumping:

English
German
Dutch
Spanish
Norwegian
Swedish
French
Czech
no commentary

Watch showjumping World Championships for free

ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV is available to viewers across the world but some countries are also hosting free streams, including Canada, Germany, Belgium and Sweden.

These streams are usually geo-blocked, but if you’re worried about accessing your usual free stream while you’re away, you can use a VPN.

🇨🇦 Canada 🇨🇦

Fans viewing from Canada can watch live on CBC as well as highlights on Rural TV.

🇩🇪 Germany 🇩🇪

Viewers in Germany can stream for free on ZDF and ARD.

🇧🇪 Belgium 🇧🇪

RTBF will show the showjumping live (you’ll need to create a free account), while HippoTV will broadcast highlights.

🇸🇪 Sweden 🇸🇪

Viewers in Sweden can watch via SVT Play for free.

How to watch the showjumping World Championships from anywhere

If you’re away from home and your normal coverage is geo-blocked, a VPN will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

There are many VPN providers out there, with some more reliable and safe than others. We’d suggest using a paid-for service such as NordVPN, where you can get an exclusive 75% off, which offers a 100% risk-free money back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service any time within the first 30-days, then you can cancel with no penalties at all.

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Showjumping World Championships broadcast times

Local time is CEST.

Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Wednesday 19 August	Speed leg (team and individual qualifier)	9.30am	8.30am
Thursday 20 August	Team round one	9am	8am
Friday 21 August	Team round two 🏅	6.50pm	5.50pm
Sunday 23 August	Individual final 🏅	2.20pm	1.20pm

Follow the action with H&H

We’re sending eventing editor Pippa Roome to bring you all the news directly from Aachen, and we have staff at home supporting our coverage so we can bring you the fullest possible reporting of every aspect of the sport.

Follow our showjumping World Championships live blog, which will start at 9.30am UK time and bring you our expert insights and analysis, plus exclusive comments from the riders.

We’ll also be publishing reports after every session of action – the joy or disappointment from riders after their performances, views on each session and more – plus times for Brits and key contenders.

To stay up to date with all the latest news from the FEI World Championships, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Get set for a battle of the showjumping titans in Aachen

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Excitement levels are soaring as a pantheon of equine and human greats gather at the equestrian Mecca of Aachen for the World Showjumping Championships.

Can Great Britain – so successful at the past four Olympics – brush aside a near-50-year wait for a World Showjumping Championships gold? Will the epic showdown between equine behemoths United Touch S and Point Break materialise?

A vast, truly global field of 30 nations will be lining up for team honours this
year (view the full showjumping World Championship form guide) and European countries continue to prove a dominant force in these championships. However, we’ve had a raft of big-name withdrawals from some key nations in the run-up to Aachen, so the team medal decider might be less
clear-cut than we thought.

The Swedes arrive as defending world champions, but they aren’t quite the invincible force of recent years when they reigned concurrently as world, Olympic and European champions.

Reigning European champions Belgium were hit hard by the withdrawal of Gilles Thomas and top stallion Ermitage Kalone but still field a stellar cast, while Paris 2024 Olympic gold medallists Great Britain arrive as one of the favourites fielding the same three riders, although all the British horses are championship first-timers.

The Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Germany and red-hot Ireland, under new chef d’equipe Jessica Kurten, look to be the other key nations in medal contention, with the latter’s riders enjoying a rich vein of form.

Key opposition from outside Europe will likely come from the USA, which fields an enviable mix of experience and exceptionally talented youth. The UAE are proving rising stars on the international stage under William Funnell’s tutelage, while Saudi Arabia and Japan could perform well.

Who will top the individual World Showjumping Championships podium?

We’re most looking forward to the tussle for individual honours.

US rider Kent Farrington’s decision to skip these championships put a slight downer on the anticipated showdown between the world’s best, but Aachen could be a career-defining moment for world number two Richard Vogel with his mighty stallion United Touch S. Previous Aachen form will be a key asset in this unique venue and United Touch’s grand prix victory there in May pinpoints the European champions as favourites for gold.

Ben Maher’s Point Break has long been touted as one of the best in the world
and the time has come to prove just how good he is.

Of course, these championships are far from a two-horse race.

Strong opposition could come from USA’s Laura Kraut, who is surely due an individual medal, but has had to perform an 11th-hour swap from her intended horse Bisquetta to the more-experienced 16-year-old Baloutinue. The multi-medal-winning Swiss duo Martin Fuchs (Conner Jei) and Steve Guerdat (Dynamix De Belheme) are two of the greatest championship riders of all time.

But the shrewd money may be on Ireland’s Shane Sweetnam and the hugely-popular James Kann Cruz, who arrive in cracking form.

So the stage is set for one of the greatest battles in equestrian history.

Bring it on!

Find out more about the rest of the field with from our complete showjumping world championships form guide.

(Image credit: Future)

Horse & Hound’s individual medal favourites

Richard Vogel (GER)

The reigning European champions and Aachen grand prix winners, Richard and United Touch S, look to add world gold to their collection, and improve on the European team bronze. The pair are live contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam, having also won the Dutch Masters in March – and the major question has to be can anyone stop them?

Ben Maher (GBR)

Multiple medal-winning rider Ben brings star stallion Point Break, with whom he also jumped double clear to help win the Rotterdam LLN. This will be a championship debut for “Bodhi”, whom Ben has been riding since he was six and with whom he came second in last year’s World Cup Final. He ranks as one of the best horses in the world. Home fans will remember their second place in the Windsor Rolex grand prix. This will be Ben’s second World Championships; he was on the team that won bronze in 2022 and finished fourth individually with Faltic HB.

Steve Guerdat (SUI)

The 2023 European champions and reigning Olympic silver medallists, Steve and Dynamix De Belheme, are on top form, jumping double clear to secure Swiss victory in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Steve has been blessed by so many fabulous horses, but cites this mare as one of the best.

Laura Kraut (USA)

An individual medal remains one of the few accolades missing from the 60-year-old’s glittering CV. This was due to be a first championship for original partner, Bisquetta, who she had been competing since 2021. However, in the week before Aachen, it was announced that she would be riding the far more experienced 16-year-old Baloutinue, with whom she competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics and last week helped USA win the Aga Khan Trophy at Dublin Horse Show.

Martin Fuchs (SUI)

The 34-year-old and the tricky but talented Conner Jei were not on their usual top form at last year’s Europeans, finishing 55th individually, but have since found their feet, winning a CSI5* grand prix and finishing second in three more. Martin is known for his speed, he’s one to watch from the start.

Shane Sweetnam (IRL)

Shane won his first five-star grand prix in July with James Kann Cruz; they’d already helped Ireland to team European silver, in 2023, and represented their country at the Paris Olympics. Their 2026 form had indicated such a win was coming, as they’d jumped double clear in the LLN, with second and third at CSI5* level and seventh in the Aachen grand prix. James Kann Cruz and Shane now have a great partnership; the big-strider covers the ground but pulls off the tightest turns and leaves the fences up.

Sophie Hinners (GER)

This is a second championship for Sophie, 28, a huge talent who won European team bronze last year and finished sixth individually. She and Iron Dames Singclair, formerly with Peder Fredricson, helped Germany to a string of Nations Cup placings and jumped triple clear for third in June’s Aachen grand prix.

José Maria Larocca (ARG)

Argentina last won a medal at these championships in 1960 but a potential dark horse could be this 57-year-old rider and his Pan-Am medal-winning 16-year-old Finn Lente. Their triple clear and runner-up finish in this year’s Aachen grand prix topped an exceptional run of form and they could spring a surprise.

Nina Mallevaey (FRA)

Another rising star who has earned her place on the team alongside legendary French riders and could be bidding for a medal at her second senior championship. She and Dynastie De Beaufour were fifth in the Aachen grand prix last year, helped France win the recent La Baule Nations Cup and have gained invaluable experience competing in the USA.

Max Kühner (AUT)

Max has formed the backbone of the Austrian team at six Europeans, the 2024 Olympics and two world, earning top-10 individual placings at four. His versatile EIC Cooley Jump The Q has won five-star grands prix and been placed in six-bars and puissance classes.

To stay up to date with the latest news and reports throughout the Aachen World Championships, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Horse & Hound’s ultimate showjumping World Championships form guide

Jennifer Donald — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 07:25:54 +0000

Welcome to Horse & Hound’s expert form guide, which is exclusively available for H&H subscribers. We have analysed the recent performances of some of the horses and riders entered for Aachen to give you the full picture ahead of the competition. There were 179 showjumping entries, so we have narrowed it down to the teams and individuals who are most likely to fight for the medals.

We will be running H&H’s exclusive live reports service throughout the showjumping World Championships, starting with the speed leg on Wednesday 19 August, including analysis of the action and interviews with the riders moments after their tests, so make sure you join us to keep abreast of the latest news as it happens.

In the meantime, check out the full showjumping World Championships form guide below, and keep it on hand when you’re watching the showjumping or following our live reports service this week.

Form guide example listing
RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Name AGE, COUNTRY 🟣 Debutant ⭐️ One to watch	Name, age colour sex, breeding, (sire x dam sire), owners	An explanation of this horse and rider’s recent form.
Richard Vogel 29, GER 🟣 ⭐️	United Touch S, 14 b st, Untouched x Lux Z Z, Julius-Peter Sinnack	The reigning European champions and 2026 Aachen grand prix winners must be looking to add a world gold to their collection, and improve on the European team bronze to which they contributed last year. The combination are also live contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam and the major question has to be whether anyone can stop them.

Countries are listed in order of their sporting country code.

Key to horse colour and gender

b = bay, db = dark bay, br = brown, bl = black, ch = chestnut, gr = grey

mare = m, gelding = g, stallion = st

Withdrawals and substitutions

This form guide was finalised on 10 August – as a result, there may be some differences between this guide and the final confirmed start lists. We have, however, marked up some late replacements.

Showjumping World Championships form guide

Argentina

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
José Maria Larocca 57, ARG ⭐️	Faye 43, 11 ch m, Fürst Wilhelm x Aljano 2, Theresa Semler, Andrew & Katie William	Argentina last won a medal at these championships in 1960 but a potential dark horse could be this 57-year-old rider and his Pan-Am medal-winning 16-year-old gelding. Their triple clear and runner-up finish in this year’s Aachen grand prix topped an exceptional run of form and they could spring a mighty surprise in this unique arena.

Australia

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Thaisa Erwin 45, AUS	Hialita B, 14 ch m, Emerald x Vaillant, rider & Michael Smith	This combination who represented Australia at the Paris Olympics return with two more years’ experience under their belts and a string of good results. They have scored wins and good placings at four- and five-star level in the past year, across North America and in Europe, and have competed on Nations Cup teams.
Thomas McDermott 32, AUS 🟣	Oaks Ventriloquist, 14 gr g, Vivant x Rex Z, Greg & Jennie McDermott & Tessa & Alison Newton	This is a first senior championship for horse and rider, who have been together for nearly 18 months. They stepped up to five-star level in May at Hamburg, where they came seventh in the grand prix, and have since jumped at three- and four-star level at Deauville, Bonheiden and Valkenswaard. How will this Australian title-holder fare on the global stage?
Edwina Tops-Alexander 52, AUS ⭐️	Fellow Castlefield, 16 b g, Je T’Aime Flamenco x Twister, rider, Tops Horse Trading Bv & Victory Equestrian Sport Bv	This is a fifth World Championships for multi-grand prix-winning mum-of-one Edwina, who competed at the Paris Olympics with this horse. They started the year off with some good five-star results in Doha and have been placed in Global Champions Tour classes in Miami and Cannes this season, but have been on less consistent form since.
Rowan Willis 46, AUS	Handsome, 14 b st, Toulon x Phin Phin, rider & Just A Cheeky One	Rowan returns to the Australian squad for the first time since the 2018 worlds, at which the team finished sixth. He brings championship debutant and new ride Handsome, whom British rider Simon Crippen was competing until March. The combination have had good results together already, including sixth in the grand prix at Spruce Meadows in June.
Jamie Winning-Kermond 39, AUS 🟣	Tulara Wat Colblensky, 12 gr m, Colman x Cornet Obolensky, Rachel Peel	First-timer Jamie and Tulara finished 21st at the World Cup Final in April, having started 2026 with good results at four- and five-star level in the US. They then travelled to Europe and secured a top-10 placing on the Global Champions Tour and the four-star Valkenswaard grand prix. Her husband – also Jamie – rode at three championships. Bonheiden and Valkenswaard. How will this Australian title-holder fare on the global stage?

Austria

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Bianca Babanitz 38, AUT	I Will Be Famous, 13 b g, Bubalu VDL x Lux Z Z, Gestüt Sprehe	This is a second World Championships for Bianca, who finished 87th individually in Herning in 2022. In almost a year of competing together, she and this horse have won and been placed at four-star level. They competed at CSI5* at St Gallen in June, including two four-fault rounds in the Nations Cup but this will be another big step up for this duo.
Christoph Obernauer AUT	Kleons Renegade, 13 db g, Quintero Ask x Argelith Stakkato	Late replacement.
Felix Koller 29, AUT 🟣	Cossinelle, 13 b m, Cascadello x Quebec 19, Sergiy Demchenko	This is a first senior championship for Felix, who won individual young rider European silver in 2018. He took on this mare, who competed at the 2023 Europeans with Ukrainian Alisa Danilova, last autumn. They have yet to jump clear together at five-star level but jumped double clear in a four-star Nations Cup in June and could perform well.
Max Kühner 52, AUT ⭐️	EIC Cooley Jump The Q, 13 b g, Pacino x OBOS Quality, rider & Luigi & Remo Baleri	Max has formed the backbone of the Austrian team with nine senior championship appearances to his credit – six European Championships, the 2024 Olympics and two World Championships. He’s earned top-10 individual placings at four. His versatile horse has won five-star grands prix and been placed in six-bars and puissance classes.
Katharina Rhomberg 33, AUT ⭐️	Colestus Cambridge, 11 gr g, Colestus x Cambridge 8, Gerhard Rauch	Katharina, a team bronze medallist at the 2023 European Championships and who represented Austria at the last worlds, brings the horse with whom she competed at the Paris Olympics. They have been on good form this year, winning at five-star in May, placed at Aachen shortly afterwards and coming second in the St Gallen grand prix in June.

Belgium

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Emilie Conter 26, BEL 🟣	Portobella Van De Fruitkorf, 11 ch m, Bamako De Muze x Nabab De Reve, Stephex Stables & Paul Swinnen	Emilie is a real rising star and she and this mare make their senior championship debut in Aachen, having been competing together for four years. They have had a good year, starting with five-star placings in the US, coming second in the grand prix of Hamburg in May and jumping for clear and four faults in the Rome Nations Cup.
Pieter Devos 40, BEL ⭐️	Casual DV Z, 11 b m, Cornet Obolensky x Cicero Z Van Paemel, Devos Stables	This is a third World Championships for Pieter, who was also on the team that won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. He brings the horse with whom he was on the European gold medal-winning team last year. Their form this year includes four podium finishes in five-star grands prix and other top-10 placings at this level.
Nicola Philippaerts 33, BEL	Katanga VH Dingeshof, 16 b m, VDL Cardento 933 x Tornedo FCS, Team Philippaerts, Familie Lens & AMB Holding NV	This will be a second World Championships for Nicola and this brilliant mare, who finished eighth individually in Herning. They were on the team that won European gold last year, and bronze in 2021, and have been on good form this season, jumping clear and four in the Falsterbo Nations Cup, having won the Shanghai Global Champions Tour grand prix in May.
Abdel Saïd 37, BEL	Wathnan Quaker Brimbelles Z, 11 b g, Quicksilver St Simeon x Hickstead, AS Trading	This is a third World Championships for Abdel, who competed in 2014 and 2018 for Egypt, and a first for this gelding, whom he has been jumping since late 2024. They came eighth at the World Cup Final this year, were placed in the Global Champions Tour grand prix of St Tropez in June and were on the team that came second in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Quietly fancied.
Thibeau Spits 25, BEL ⭐️	Impress-K Van’t Kattenheye Z, 11 bl st, Indoktro K Van’t Kattenheye x Vagabond De La Pomme, Spits BV	Thibau and this striking stallion were also on the team that won European gold last year, finishing eighth individually. They came third in the Geneva grand prix in December and have followed that with a strong 2026, including a five-star grand prix win, good Global Champions Tour placings and double clear in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Could be in the mix for one medal at least.

Brazil

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Luciana Diniz 55, BRA	Vertigo Du Desert, 17 gr g, Mylord Carthago HN x Robin Z, rider, Iliana Diniz & Arnaldo Dos Santos Diniz	Last time Luciana competed at an Aachen World Championships, it was for Portugal, as she was not picked for the Brazilian team. This time she has been selected, with the veteran rider with whom she came 10th individually at the Tokyo Olympics. The combination are in great form, including finishing second in the Aachen Rolex grand prix qualifier.
Marlon Modolo Zanotelli 38, BRA	Dorette OLD, 17 ch m, Dollar Du Murier x Fighting Alpha 3, Ashford Farm BV & Jana Wargers	This mare formerly ridden by Germany’s Jana Wargers, with results including helping Germany win the 2024 Longines League of Nations Final, is a new ride for Brazilian team stalwart Marlon, who took the reins early this year. They came third in their first five-star class together shortly afterwards and have since recorded more top-10 finishes at this level.
Stephan de Freitas Barcha 36, BRA 🟣	Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio, 15 b m, Calvaro FC x Paroli 4, Ana Eliza Aguiar Ramos	This is a first World Championships for Stephan and this mare, who were individual champions and team bronze medallists at the 2023 Pan-Am Games, and finished fifth individually at the Paris Olympics. Recent results include second in May’s Madrid Global Champions Tour grand prix and finishing just outside the top 10 in the Rome grand prix.
Rodrigo Pessoa BRA	Major Tom, 13 ch g, Vagabond De La Pomme x Heartbreaker	Late replacement.

Canada

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Kyle King 51, CAN 🟣	Kayenne Z, 11 b m, Kannan x Canezaro, rider	Kyle and this mare both make their championship debut. Kyle bought her just before turning 50 and said she’s made his dreams come true. They’ve had great results at top level including second to Scott Brash in last year’s $5m grand prix at Spruce Meadows. They won a World Cup leg early this year and had good CSI5* placings at Spruce Meadows this summer.
Erynn Ballard 45, CAN	Fave D’Authuit, 11 bl g, Cornet Obolensky x Kannan, Ilan Ferder	This is a third successive World Championships for Erynn, who has been riding this horse since 2024. They have had a string of wins and podium finishes at five-star level this year, including two wins on the trot in Mexico, and second places at Aachen and St Gallen. Erynn is a hugely experienced rider and could make her mark in Aachen.
Amy Millar 49, CAN	Jagger HX, 12 b g, Ustinov x Bustique, Team Eye Candy & Millar Brooke Farm	Amy makes a second World Championships appearance. She won Pan Am team silver in 2023, and has been competing Jagger since 2022; at Hickstead this summer they were one of 19 pairs to have four faults in the King George. They came second in a four-star grand prix in Vancouver in May, and have since been placed at Spruce Meadows and Chantilly.
Chris Pratt 57, CAN	Ideaal ES, 13 b g, Ukato x Conway, Take The High Road LLC	Chris last rode at a championships 20 years ago, when the worlds were last at Aachen. He started riding Ideaal nearly two years ago; they have since achieved wins and good placings at four- and five-star. At the Royal International they jumped for eight and clear to help Canada to a Nations Cup podium finish, and clear in the other class they contested.
Kyle Timm 36, CAN 🟣	Casino Calvin, 13 gr g, Casino Berlin OLD x Calvin, Rein Family & Tara Dow-Rein	A first senior championship for France-based Kyle, who is best known for producing young horses but has enjoyed a rapid ascent in the ring in recent years. Casino Calvin was formerly ridden by his countryman Eric Lamaze. Kyle took the reins in 2023 and they have had top-10 placings at four- and five-star this year, with a good prep outing at Royal International.

Cyprus

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Alexa Stais 30, CYP	Cornflake CR, 11 ch g, Cascadello x Cassigor, Reitsportanlage Dagobertshausen GmbH & CO.KG	The sole Cypriot showjumper is competing at her second World Championships, having contested the vaulting in 2014. She and Chad Blue finished in the top half individually at last year’s Europeans but Cornflake is a relatively new ride and these championships will be a big ask. Alex says the flexibility and balance needed for vaulting is of use in showjumping.

Egypt

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Sameh El Dahan 41, EGY ⭐️	Oscar-A, 12 b st, VDL Harley x VDL Cardento 933, rider, Joanne Sloan-Allen & Sycamore Horse Farm	This is a third World Championships for Northern Ireland-based Sameh, who switched back to riding for Egypt this year after a spell representing Great Britain. He has been competing this stallion for long-term supporter Joanne since last year and they have developed a lovely rapport, with good placings on the Canadian and European circuits.
Nayel Nassar 35, EGY ⭐️	ESI Ali, 11 b g, Stakkato Gold x Tygo, rider & Evergate Stables LLC	This is a third World Championships for Nayel and a first for the Irish-bred former ride of Seamus Hughes Kennedy. This combination has won and been placed at five-star. They started this year in good five-star form in the US and continued through spring, with top-10 finishes in the Madrid Global Champions Tour and the Falsterbo grand prix.

Spain

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Armando Trapote 45, ESP 🟣	Tornado VS, 15 b g, Toulon x Contender, Yeguada Valbanera S.L.	This is a first World Championships for Armando and Tornado, who were on the team that finished fifth at the 2023 Europeans and 16th in 2025. They have had relatively few outings so far this year but they came 13th in the World Cup Final in April and their results since have included eighth place in the grand prix of Rome. A possible dark horse for Spain.

France

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Julien Epaillard 49, FRA ⭐️	Fringan De Vesquerie, 11 ch g, Mylord Carthago x Diamant De Semilly, Le Haras De Neroli	A second worlds for speed demon Julien, who won individual European bronze in 2023, and a first championship for this gelding he has been competing for a year. They jumped double clear to help France win the La Baule Nations Cup in June, following that with third place in the grand prix, then were 10th in the Riesenbeck Global Champions Tour grand prix.
Antoine Ermann 24, FRA 🟣	Floyd Des Pres, 11 ch g, Vigo Cece x Papillon Rouge, Jean-Yves Ermann & SAS Weston	A relatively new name in the top tier of the sport, Antoine and this gelding make their team senior championship debut, having finished 15th as individuals at least year’s Europeans. They jumped clear and for one time-fault to help France win the La Baule Nations Cup in June, having also finished third in the Madrid Global Champions Tour grand prix.
Nina Mallevaey 26, FRA 🟣	Dynastie De Beaufour, 13 b m, Diamant De Semilly x Cassini II, Rein Family LLC & Tara Dow-Rein	Another huge young talent who has earned her place alongside some legendary French riders on the squad and could be bidding for a medal at just her second championship. The pair finished fifth in the Aachen grand prix last year, helped France win the recent La Baule Nations Cup and have gained invaluable experience competing in the USA.
Olivier Perreau 40, FRA 🟣	GL Events Dorai D’Aiguilly, 13 b m, Kannan x Toulon, EARL Ecurie Perreau et Fils & Emilie Perreau	Olivier turned heads when he made his senior championship debut with this horse at the 2023 Europeans, where they finished eighth as individuals. They came 38th at the Olympics the following year and have been on great form this year, with CSI5* wins and placings. They were on the team that won the La Baule Nations Cup in June and could perform well.
Kevin Staut 45, FRA	Exquis RB, 12 ch g, Siwing De Tria val x Quamikase Des Forets, Richard Breul	Team stalwart Kevin will compete at his fifth World Championships; he was on the silver medal-winning teams in 2010 and 2014. He has competed Exquis since January and they perform well in big grass arenas with a win at St Gallen, where they were fourth in the grand prix. They came sixth in Hickstead’s King George V, as the fastest first-round four-faulters.

Great Britain

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Scott Brash 40, GBR ⭐️	Hello Mango, 11 gr m, Untouchable 27 x Numero Uno, Lady Pauline Harris & Lady Pauline Kirkham	Scott picked Hello Mango over double European silver medallist Hello Folie and Olympic gold medal-winning Hello Jefferson; he has long thought she has what it takes to go all the way. Their first international win was a five-star grand prix in January; following this with strong performances in both qualifiers for this year’s grand prix in Aachen.
Harry Charles 27, GBR	LT Holst Freda, 12 gr m, Colman x Casall Ask, rider & Eve Jobs	Olympic team gold medallist Harry brings a mare he has only been riding for three months, but if anyone can, Harry can. She was bought for Harry’s wife Eve but Harry fell for her and they were on the winning team in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, jumping double clear followed by a fabulous jump-off, a month later. Harry said he and Freda gelled from day one.
Ben Maher 43, GBR ⭐️	Point Break, 12 b st, Action-Breaker x Balou Du Rouet, Pamela Wright & Charlotte Rossetter	Multiple medal-winning Ben brings the star stallion with whom he jumped double clear for Britain in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations and won the grand prix. Ben has been riding “Bodhi” since he was six and they came second in last year’s World Cup Final, and won at the top level across the world; he ranks alongside the best horses at the moment.
Jack Whitaker 24, GBR 🟣	Jack JL, 12 gr st, Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Astrello, Candice Reilly	Jack and Jack arrive in Aachen hot on the heels of fourth place in the King George V at Hickstead. They have been together a year but caught the eye early as part of the winning Longines League of Nations team in St Tropez. They have since achieved podium finishes at five-star level, and represented Britain on Nations Cup and more League of Nations teams.
Adrian Whiteway 36, GBR 🟣	Chacco Volo, 13 b st, Chacco-Blue x Carthago, Deborah Cox	Adrian and “Chacc” have become a feature of British Nations Cup teams en route to this championship debut. They have been together since the stallion was five, and worked their way up through three- and four-star Nations Cups until Aachen last year. They were part of the winning Nations Cup team at Hickstead and have jumped clear after clear for Britain.

Germany

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Daniel Deusser 45, GER ⭐️	Otello De Guldenboom, 12 b st, Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z x Caretino, rider & Stephex Stables	Daniel is a German championship team veteran, with three European team silvers and an Olympic team bronze on his CV. He has been riding this Belgian-bred stallion for three years and the pair have hit the top level recently, including coming second in the World Cup Final this year. They were on the team that came second in the CSI5* La Baule Nations Cup.
Sophie Hinners 28, GER 🟣 ⭐️	Iron Dames Singclair, 11 b g, Singular LS La Silla x VDL Cardento 933, Pegase Equestrian BV	This is a second championship for Sophie, who was on the team that won European bronze last year, and a first for this Swedish-bred gelding previously ridden by Peder Fredricson. They were on the German team that finished third at last year’s Longines League of Nations Final, the second-placed team in La Baule, and the third-placed Aachen Nations Cup team in May.
Richard Vogel 29, GER 🟣 ⭐️	United Touch S, 14 b st, Untouched x Lux Z Z, Julius-Peter Sinnack	The reigning European champions and 2026 Aachen grand prix winners must be looking to add a world gold to their collection, and improve on the European team bronze to which they contributed last year. The combination are also live contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam and the major question has to be whether anyone can stop them.
Marcus Ehning 52, GER	Coolio 42, 13 db g, Casalito x Quidam De Revel, Elmrock BV & rider	Team veteran and all-round legend Marcus, who has 15 championship medals, won European team bronze with this horse last year and came third at the 2025 Longines League of Nations Final. They hit top form in June, winning the CSI5* grand prix of St Gallen, having come second in the Global Champions Tour grand prix of Shanghai in May.
Christian Kukuk 36, GER 🟣	Checker 47, 16 gr g, Comme Il Faut x Loro Piana Come On, Thomas Müller & Madeleine Winter-Schulze	The reigning Olympic champions have not contested a championship since Paris and were drafted in for Aachen as travelling reserves at the 11th hour. Despite limited outings this year, they hit form in Riesenbeck before winning the Longines Global Champions Tour in London. A first worlds for Christian, who has European team silver and bronze on his CV.

Ireland

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Bertram Allen 31, IRL	Qonquest De Rigo, 10 b g, Fantomas De Muze x VDL Indoctro, Aloga Stables Ltd	The pair that helped Ireland finish fourth at last year’s Europeans, and second at the Longines League of Nations Final, go to Aachen on good form. They started 2026 with good results at four- and five-star level in the US and have continued in the same vein, including a double jumping clear in the CSI5* La Baule Nations Cup and fifth in the grand prix there.
Darragh Kenny 38, IRL ⭐️	Eddy Blue, 14 b g, Eldorado VD Zeshoek TN x Chacco-Blue, Carol A Sollak	Darragh said after he and Eddy Blue won the London World Cup leg in 2024 that this may be one of the best horses he’s ridden. He proved why, as they went on to be on the fourth-placed team at the Europeans the next summer, and have since won and been placed at four-and five-star level including a CSI5* US grand prix in March. Expect a bold bid.
Cian O’Connor 46, IRL	Chatolinue PS, 13 db g, Diablo Blanco x Stakkatol, Karlswood Partners	This is a relatively new ride for team stalwart Cian; he took the reins last October and they finished on a CSI5* podium in Geneva and in the London World Cup leg two months later. They have been building experience in big grass arenas in the build-up to Aachen, jumping five-star Nations Cups and the high-calibre duo finished fourth in the La Baule grand prix.
Shane Sweetnam 45, IRL ⭐️	James Kann Cruz, 13 gr g, Kannan x Cruising, rider & Gizmo Partners LLC	Shane and his 2023 European team silver medal-winning star are selected for Aachen straight after their first five-star grand prix win together in Falsterbo. They had been knocking at the door for months though, securing second and third places at this level, jumped a Longines League of Nations double clear and finishing seventh in the Aachen grand prix. This could be their time to shine.
Denis Lynch 50, IRL	Vistogrand, 13 b st, Fantaland x Mr Visto, rider & Tipperary’s Finest Est	Travelling reserves, Denis and British-bred Vistogrand were on the team that just missed the European medals last year, having represented Ireland as individuals in 2023. The powerful stallion’s early promise has developed into a leading talent showing consistent form at the top level. Recent results include top-10 finishes at CSI5* level in Rome.

Israel

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Daniel Bluman 36, ISR	Corbie VV, 11 gr m, Cornet Obolensky x Chacco-Blue, rider, Abigail S Wexner & Over The Top Stables LLC	Colombia-born Daniel trained with the legendary Nelson Pessoa in his youth and is now an Israeli team stalwart. He will compete at his fifth worlds with a mare he has been riding for three years. They have clocked up wins and top placings together in the US and across Europe at four- and five star level, and have plenty of experience of the Aachen arena.
Mark Bluman 35, ISR 🟣	Landon De Nyze, 13 ch g, Comilfo Plus Z x Quadrillo, Aram Ampagoumian LLC	Mark makes his worlds debut on a championship team with his cousin Daniel for the first time. He brings the horse with whom Kent Farrington won team gold and individual silver at the 2023 Pan Am Games, whom Mark has been competing since December. They have already clocked up good results at five-star, including a win at Spruce Meadows in June.
Theodore Boris 33, ISR 🟣	Cazan Z, 11 ch st, Comme Il Faut x Vagabond De La Pomme, Muriel Kretchner & Theodore Boris International Sales	Theodore brings the horse previously ridden by Jos Verlooy, and with whom he finished 77th at last year’s Europeans, to his worlds debut. Their form has not been the most consistent this year but they have won at the lower levels and jumped clear rounds at five-star this spring and summer. Aachen will be a huge stepping stone however.
Robin Muhr 31, ISR	Foud’joi De Stel, 11 b g, Canturo x Quite Easy, rider	This will be a sixth championship, and second worlds, for Robin, but he brings championship debutant 11-year-old gelding, who he has been competing internationally since early 2024. They had wins and placings at three- and four-star level this spring but a career-best performance will be required from this pair if they’re to trouble the leaders.
Isabella Russekoff 26, ISR 🟣	C Vier 2, 18 b g, VDL Cardento 933 x Concorde, rider & Suave Pony LLC	Withdrawn.

Italy

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Piergiorgio Bucci 50, ITA	Hantano, 14 b g, Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Numero Uno, Eriberto Bucci & Karina Frederiks	Piergiorgio, who turns 51 the day before the worlds start, will compete at his seventh senior championship, this time with Hantano; they were on the team that came eighth at the 2025 Europeans. They’ve recorded good five-star results this year, winning the grand prix in La Baule and jumping clear and four for Italy in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations.
Emanuele Camilli 43, ITA	Chacareno PS, 11 b g, Chacco-Blue x Calvaro FC, Gestüt Lewitz	Emanuele will contest his second World Championships after Herning 2022, with this horse he has been riding since 2022. They have had five-star placings this year, and jumped clear in Nations Cups for Italy, but clear rounds have been hard to come by this summer so far and the championship tracks of Aachen will be a big challenge.
Giacomo Casadei 23, ITA 🟣	Marbella Du Chabli, 14 b m, Elvis Ter Putte x Nabab De Reve, Chiara Bonavolta & Mirco Casadei	Giacomo and this mare were also on the Italian team that came eighth at last year’s European Championships; they make their World Championships debut after two and a half years together. They had top-10 placings in Abu Dhabi and Florida at the start of 2026 but clear rounds at CSI5* have been a challenge more recently and they might struggle in Aachen.
Giampiero Garofalo 32, ITA 🟣	Querido Van’t Ruytershof, 10 bl g, Mosito Van Het Hellehof x Otangelo, Stal Hendrix	Giampiero and this young gelding make their World Championship debut after about a year together. Their five-star form this year includes a podium finish in Helsinki, where they were also sixth in the World Cup, and jumping for clear and four in the Rome Nations Cup. They finished in the top 10 of the Valkenswaard four-star grand prix in July.
Giulia Martinengo Marquet 47, ITA	Delta Del’Isle, 13 b g, Tibet Tame x Grain De Soleil, SGH Srl, Ashford Farm & Benedetta Cesaretto	This combination were also on the team that came eighth at the 2025 Europeans. They have since had top-10 placings at four- and five-star level together, and jumped clear rounds at Aachen just a couple of months ago. They came seventh in the Rome grand prix in May, and jumped clear and four in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations in June.

Monaco

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Anastasia Nielson 20, MON 🟣	ESI Rocky, 11 b g, Stakkato Gold x For Pleasure, Nista AG	This precocious young talent arrives at her first senior championship having already achieved five-star grand prix-winning status. She became the youngest Longines Global Champions Tour winner aged 19 and won a second grand prix in 2026, this time with the brilliant ESI Rocky, Seamus Hughes Kennedy’s junior European gold medal-winning partner, whom she acquired last year. Could perform well.

The Netherlands

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Michael Greeve 44, NED 🟣	Denver, 11 b g, Diarado x Quantum, rider & Trelawny Farm LLC	Michael and this horse, who was briefly ridden by Bertram Allen, were on the team that finished sixth at the 2025 Europeans. They were placed at five-star level early this year, and were on the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations team in June. They were consistent at the CSI4* in Valkenswaard in July, jumping plenty of clear rounds.
Willem Greve 43, NED 🟣 ⭐️	Grandorado TN NOP, 15 b st, Eldorado VD Zeshoek TN x Carolus II, Team Nijhof vof & Willem Greve Sportpaarden Bv	Willem was on the team that finished sixth at the 2025 Europeans, and seventh in 2023. He brings this stallion with whom he finished seventh at last year’s World Cup Final, and was third in the Rotterdam grand prix in June. Other 2026 successes include five-star wins in Amsterdam and in the Gothenburg World Cup leg, and fourth in the Paris grand prix.
Bas Moerings 27, NED 🟣	Ipsthar, 13 b st, Denzel VT Meulenhof x Farmer, Geert Moerings & MEAA Moerings	Bas and Ipsthar are also veterans of last year’s sixth-placed Europeans team, having competed internationally together since 2018. Bas’s family bred Ipsthar and he has competed him from the start, to wins and placings up to five-star level. They jumped clear and four in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, and clear at Valkenswaard in July.
Harrie Smolders 46, NED	Mr. Tac, 14 b g, Non Stop x Toulon, Genevieve Megret & rider	Dutch team stalwart Harrie was on the team that won silver at the last worlds. He returns with this gelding, formerly ridden by Luxembourg’s Victor Bettendorf, whom he has been competing since 2024. They were on the team that won the Aga Khan trophy at Dublin last year, and were joint-second in the Paris grand prix this spring.
Mathijs van Asten 47, NED 🟣	Cassina Dior, 14 b m, Diarado x San Patrignano Cassini, Lars Backsell & Van Asten and Nijberg Equestrian	Mathijs makes his senior championship debut with this New Zealand-bred mare he has been competing for two years. They won their first five-star class together in early 2025, after which they had inconsistent results and stepped down. They came 11th in the Rotterdam grand prix in June, then jumped double clears at Valkenswaard in July.

Norway

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Geir Gulliksen 66, NOR	Island VG, 13 b g, VDL Zirocco Blue x VDL Indoctro, Stall Gullik AS	One of the veterans of the sport, the popular Geir Gulliksen contests his 17th senior championship for Norway at the age of 66 but he is yet to stand on a podium. He brings his current five-star ride with whom he has been contesting Global Champions League competitions and has had top-10 finishes including sixth in the Paris grand prix.
Cecilie Hatteland 39, NOR	Que Pasa JW-LVM, 10 b g, Di Cantero Van Ter Hulst Z x I Am Moerhoeve’s Star, Mest Invest DK APS & Horvath Horses SL	This is a second World Championships for Cecilie, who has represented Norway from youth level, but a first for the 10-year-old gelding whom she has been competing for two years. They jumped their first five-star classes in St Gallen in June, including the grand prix there, after which she stepped him down in the run-up to Aachen.
Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen 29, NOR 🟣	Equine America Harwich VDL, 14 ch g, Arezzo VDL x Darco, Stall Gullik AS	In another big championship for the Gulliskens, Geir’s son Johan joins him on the team with his long-term partner Harwich. The pair were in the team that just missed the final at last year’s Europeans. They started 2026 with podium finishes in the Basel World Cup and Hong Kong grand prix. They also contested the World Cup Final in Texas.
Marit Haarr Skollerud 39, NOR	Nelson Van’t Roosakker, 13 b g, Zandor Z x Kashmir Van Schuttershof, BV Karel Cox Horses & Skollerud Tore	This combination were also on the team that finished 11th at the Europeans last year, and this is their second World Championships for Norway; Marit also rode at the 2018 World Equestrian Games and 2017 Europeans. This combination has had relatively limited outings this summer but jumped clear at CSI5* level in Rome at the end of May.

Switzerland

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Martin Fuchs 34, SUI	Conner Jei, 15 db g, Connor 48 x Cosimo, Adolfo Juri	Martin and the tricky but hugely talented Conner Jei were not on their usual top form at last year’s Europeans, finishing 55th individually. They have since found their feet again this year, having won a CSI5* grand prix and been placed second in a further three. Martin is known for his speed and will be one to watch from the first day.
Steve Guerdat 44, SUI ⭐️	Dynamix De Bélhème, 13 b m, Snake De Blondel x Corent Obolensky, CHC Horses SA & La Giraffa SA	The 2023 European champions and reigning Olympic silver medallists go to Aachen on top form, having jumped double clear to secure a Swiss victory in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Steve, who has been blessed by so many fabulous horses, has cited this mare as one of the best, and will undoubtedly have his eye on team and individual medals.
Gaëtan Joliat 21, SUI 🟣	Chelsea Z, 13 ch g, Chellano Alpha Z x Cicero Z Van Paemel, Olivier de Coulon	Promising young Swiss rider Gaëtan and Chelsea Z finished 10th individually at last year’s young rider Europeans. Both horse and rider make their senior championship debut in Aachen on the back of top-10 finishes at five-star level this spring and summer, including helping the Swiss to third in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, but this will be a major step up for them.
Jason Smith 35, SUI 🟣	Picobello Van’t Roosakker, 11 gr st, Kassander Van’t Roosakker x Canabis Z AKZ, Marc Buhofer & Silver Moon Sport Horses	Scottish-born Jason, who represented Britain as a junior rider, comes to his first senior championship since he won team bronze in 2011. He and Picobello have twice jumped clear to help Switzerland win five-star Nations Cups in recent months, and came sixth in the Rotterdam grand prix in June.
Alain Jufer 48, SUI 🟣	Chaccoo De l’Escant MM, 9 ch g, Chacoon Blue x Vigo D’Arsouilles, Marlis Mühlebach	Alain is a familiar name on the international circuit but this would be a first championship for him and this promising young horse. They jumped clear to help the Swiss to third place in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, after which Alain stepped the horse down to one-star level, at which they have been jumping steady clears.

Sweden

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Peder Fredricson 54, SWE ⭐️	Alcapone Des Carmille, 16 b g, Diamant De Semilly x Heartbreaker, Alcapone Group	One of two riders from the triumphant team at the last worlds, Peder partners a horse previously ridden by compatriot Angelie von Essen. The pair finished in the top 10 of the Geneva grand prix at the end of 2025 and have been on good form since, including a win in a Global Champions Tour speed class in June – a good omen for Aachen’s opening round.
Henrik von Eckermann 45, SWE	Minute Man, 12 b st, Vigo D’Arsouilles STX x Montender 2, Team Minute Man LLC	The reigning world champion returns without gold medal-winning ride King Edward and brings a horse who has recently returned to competition. Minute Man did not compete between July 2025 and May this year but has since jumped a clear and four in the La Baule Nations Cup and enhanced their form in Riesenbeck. Can the Swedish maestro do it again?
Petronella Andersson 35, SWE 🟣	Odina Van Klapscheut, 12 b m, Zazu x Landor S, Stephex Stables	Petronella makes her World Championships debut but is no stranger to a big occasion, having won young rider European silver and bronze, and represented Sweden at last year’s European Championships. She is selected with a mare she took on at seven, and competed in the young horse worlds that year. The combination has had multiple five-star placings this year.
Wilma McMahon 33, SWE 🟣	Cicci BJN, 15 gr m, Ci Ci Senjor Ask x Tornesch 1042, rider & WH Sporthorses	Wilma is another who comes from the 2025 Europeans team; she and Cicci finished 18th there, and were on the team that won European gold in 2023. The mare lost one eye aged seven but returned to the top level for the combination to make their championship debut three years ago. Recent results include fifth in the CSI5* grand prix of Rome in May.
Thomas Ryan 41, SWE	Jezebeau BC, 11 b g, Thunder VD Zuuthoeve x Vancouver D’Avray, H3K Equestrian AB	The former Irish rider returns to a championship team for the first time since 2009, this time in Swedish colours having switched nationality. He brings a horse he has been competing since late 2023. This combination were on the Swedish team that finished seventh in the five-star Nations Cup in La Baule in June and Falsterbo in July.

United Arab Emirates

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi 23, UAE 🟣 ⭐️	Enjoy De La Mure, 12 b st, Vigo Cece x Sable Rose, Al Shira'aa Stables	Another UAE combination who competed at the 2024 Olympics after less than a year together, finishing in the top 20 individually. They went on to good top-level results including second in the 2025 King George at Hickstead. They have had good four- and five-star placings this summer ahead of their worlds debut here.
Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi 52, UAE 🟣	Hudson De Vains, 9 b st, Comme Il Faut x Robin Z, Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club	This is a World Championships debut for Abdullah and this young stallion, whom he has been riding for about a year. They jumped a few five-star classes last summer, and more this year, and are yet to jump double clear at this level. They were on the Hickstead Nations Cup team, jumping for eight faults in each round.
Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi 27, UAE 🟣	Foncetti VD Heffinck, 12 b st, For Pleasure x Concetto, Al Shira'aa Stables	This stallion competed at the Paris Games with Humaid's team-mate Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi, finishing 61st individually, then Humaid took the ride in September that year. They've since been contesting five-star classes and appear to be improving with every round, representing the UAE on several Nations Cup teams.
Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi 38, UAE 🟣	Flonflon, 11 b g, Ogrion Des Champs x Hurlevent De Breka, Al Shira'aa Stables	Salim, who competed at the Paris Olympics, brings this gelding to their first World Championships after just a few months together. They jumped double clear for seventh in the Bolesworth CSI4* grand prix, then Flonflon contested his first five-star classes with Salim at Hickstead, where they had just one down in the King George.

USA

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Laura Kraut 60, USA ⭐️	Baloutinue, 16 b g, Balou Du Rouet x Landor S, St Bride's Farm	This team stalwart has already won world - and Olympic - team gold and silver. She has swapped her shortlisted horse Bisquetta for the four years older Baloutinue. Laura is always one to have on your side in championships.
Katie Dinan 33, USA 🟣	Out Of The Blue SCF, 12 gr m, Verdi TN x San Patrignano Cassini, Grant Road Partners	Katie makes her senior championship debut for the US in Aachen but she contested seven World Cup Finals, finishing third overall with Out Of The Blue this year. The pair were on the team that came second in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations in June, when they also secured a top-10 finish in the CSI5* grand prix, so could jump well in Aachen.
Lillie Keenan 29, USA	Fasther, 16 ch g, Vigo D'Arsouilles STX x Farmer, Chansonette Farm	Lillie is competing at her second worlds, and was selected after some strong five-star results, including in the Paris leg of the Global Champions Tour in June. She and Fasther have not had a huge number of outings this year but results include finishing just outside the top 10 in the Aachen grand prix in May, which bodes well for these championships.
Natalie Dean 27, USA 🟣	Mr Boombastic, 12 b g, Vigo Cece x Sable Rose, Marigold Sporthorses	This is a senior championship debut for Natalie, and for this horse formerly ridden by Denis Lynch. They started competing together at 1.30m last September, and they have since clocked up good results at the top level, jumping clear for the US at the La Baule Nations Cup in June and helping the team claim victory in Dublin last weekend.
McLain Ward 50, USA ⭐️	High Star Hero, 13 b g, Zazu x Darco, Michael Smith	The multiple Olympic medallist was on the team that won gold at his last World Championships in 2018; in the one he missed, the US team finished 11th. He returns with a horse he has been riding since 2024, with whom he has won and come second in five-star grands prix this year, among other good results at this level. Highly likely to be vying for medals.

Zimbabwe

RIDER	HORSE	FORM
Charley-Ann Barford 40, ZIM 🟣	Odiena Van Berimar, 12 gr m, Kannan x Game-Boy, rider, Marianne Burger & Helen Human	Last, but definitely not least, is Zimbabwe's sole entry, who will make history in Aachen as the first rider from her country to qualify for the World Championships. She made her European debut in May, competing up to four-star since with a lovely string of horses, one of whom is this quality mare, who was previously with Team Philippaerts. A big ask but what a story.

‘Can the British showjumpers bring it home?’ asks Graham Fletcher

Graham Fletcher — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

It’s business as usual for our top three riders Ben Maher, Scott Brash and Harry Charles as they head to the World Showjumping Championships in Aachen. Who is the best under pressure? In my opinion, they’re all 11/10, which is why at the Paris Olympics – when it was teams of three with all scores to count – this trio gave us a real advantage and won that wonderful gold medal.

They’re taking different horses this time, but we still have a very strong squad.

Ben has Point Break, a horse he knows like the back of his hand having ridden him for the past five seasons. He hasn’t had a jump down all year and from three grands prix starts has had a fifth, a second and a win in Rotterdam.

In his past six championships, Ben has been in the top four on five occasions. This time, he will be looking to add to his gold medal collection; he’s riding at the top of his game, so I think he will.

Scott’s got Hello Mango, a horse with some great form this year including heading a five-star in Doha and coming second in Chantilly. Scott’s capable of winning on any horse and Aachen should suit the scopey Mango who will be peaking at just the right time.

Although Harry had a good team of horses at the start of the season, he didn’t really have an obvious choice for these championships. However, at the FEI World Cup Final in Fort Worth April, the talking horse was a New Zealand-bred mare called LT Holst Freda ridden by Julia Davey – and she was secured for Harry to ride.

Mightily impressive she looked when Harry rode her at their first few five-star shows together. Despite his lack of ring time with this mare, I’m still putting him as my dark horse to win an individual medal.

The quartet is rounded out by Adrian Whiteway and Chacco Volo – and what an inspiring story theirs is for up-and-coming riders. Bought as a four-year-old and produced all the way by Adrian, they’re now delivering some top-class five-star Nations Cup results.

How long is it since an unknown rider produced a horse from a rank novice to join a championship team? Adrian is a lovely, unassuming guy and a really good jockey. I wish him well.

While the Brits can go to Aachen feeling confident, the Irish, Germans and Americans are all looking good too. But ultimately, I think our team will go one better than our footballers and “bring it home”.

Credit needed for owners

It’s several decades since the late Michael Clayton, then editor of Horse & Hound, invited me to write an article for this magazine. One of the first things I wrote about was how there should be a prize for the groom when a major class was won. The idea was quickly adopted by several shows.

Today, racing does it very well and our sport is getting it right on that score too. When the big screen or live-stream coverage shows a picture to introduce each
competitor, there’s also now one of the grooms, which is a nice touch.

Then comes the breeding, which appears in great detail. But so often there’s little or no credit given to a horse’s owners. And I think that’s really wrong.

Of all the thousands of horses I’ve bought and sold over the years, I’ve never been influenced by breeding. But in so many ways, owners and sponsors have altered my life in the sport tremendously.

Of course, breeding is interesting, but owners and sponsors are far more important. Let’s face it, without them there would be no party.

● What more can be done to recognise the importance of owners across the equestrian disciplines? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

For more exclusive insights and analysis from top names in the equestrian world, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘She was grinning from ear to ear’: teenage rider in debilitating pain for months bounces back thanks to ‘incredible’ therapy

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:05:00 +0000

A young showjumper who was unable to ride for five months owing to debilitating pain caused by a rare nerve condition is back in the saddle – and jumping 1.30m – thanks to treatment not available in the UK.

Izzy Townsend had to travel to Italy to undergo a fortnight of scrambler therapy for the complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) with which she was diagnosed in February. She landed at Bristol Airport on Saturday, 25 July, then jumped a 1.10m at the Welsh Home Pony the next day. On the Monday, she jumped a 1.20m, and on the Tuesday the 1.30m pony showjumper of the year qualifier.

“You can see in the photos I bought, she was grinning from ear to ear,” Izzy’s mother Sarah told H&H. “She was beyond delighted.”

Sarah, a chiropractor, said Izzy’s condition started with a very minor incident.

“She was just handling one of the ponies, and over-extended her elbow,” she said. “Nothing even made contact but she said her elbow hurt. I thought she might have sprained it a bit so she went to school the next day, then her friend messaged me, very concerned as Izzy’s hand was turning blue.”

Complex regional pain syndrome

Izzy went to hospital, then a trauma centre, and a week or so later was diagnosed with CRPS. The condition is rare and poorly understood but it causes severe, debilitating pain.

“It’s to do with the brain misinterpreting the injury, so it’s incredibly painful,” Sarah said.

“In Izzy’s case, you couldn’t even touch the skin because it was so sensitive; it’s known to be one of the most painful conditions you can have. There isn’t really any treatment for it besides physiotherapy and pain relief, and that’s really all you can do.

“Izzy worked so hard but she couldn’t do anything; couldn’t ride, couldn’t dress herself, and she had her GCSEs coming up.”

Sarah said there was some progress; the pain lessened slightly, and Izzy was determined to take her exams as she wants to go into medicine. But the condition is also affected by stress, and possibly owing to the pressure of the exams, the pain flared and spread so Izzy’s face was affected too.

“Her hand and eye were in sync with the pain; even going outside, the pressure of the wind would set it off,” Sarah said. “It was incredibly difficult for her but she did complete her GCSEs. Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital and her consultant and everyone helped her as much as they could but there wasn’t really anything they could do.

“After her exams, it started to improve a bit but she had no function in her hand and was in a lot of pain. I was so worried about her; she’d gone from such an active, busy life to basically nothing.”

Sarah did some research and found out about scrambler therapy, which uses electrodes externally to replace pain signals in the nerves but is not available in this country. Izzy’s consultant was happy for her to try it so the family flew to Italy for a fortnight.

(Image credit: Showground Photography)

“She had the most amazing response,” Sarah said. “She came back and jumped straight on the pony.”

Sarah said she had been told Izzy was a good candidate for the treatment, and that she had an 80% chance of it benefiting her condition.

“By the time she started on the machine she was in seven out of 10 pain, by the end of the hour’s session it was one out of 10,” she said. “It was that quick; by day two she could use her hand, by day five row a boat. It was just bonkers.”

Sarah then had to fly home, leaving Izzy with her father Jay, to get Izzy’s sister Nell to the Royal International and the Welsh Home Pony.

“So I didn’t realise she’d got even better,” Sarah said. “She arrived at the show to watch her sister and was saying ‘Can I get on?’ She got on Rosie, jumped a couple of fences and then said ‘Can I jump a class?’ I’d thought she might be able to hack or something that week but it was so lovely to see her back in the ring. And the doctor said the one thing she must do is keep using her hand, as if not the brain might revert to thinking there’s a problem. I don’t know if they meant quite this, but she’s using it!”

Sarah said Izzy was allowed to jump with strict caveats about retiring if there were any issues – but she and Connemara Hollywood Princess Rosie, who have built a strong relationship together, were back in the game.

She paid tribute to her daughter’s determination in such a tough year for the family, citing for example occasions when Izzy’s heart rate would be 180 owing to the pain, and thanked all those who supported them, including Emmie Horner and her family for riding and looking after Izzy’s novice pony, and the David Broome Event Centre for squeezing Izzy’s entry in.

“You realise there are a lot of good people in the world,” Sarah said.

Scrambler therapy for CPRS

Sarah wants to raise awareness of the benefits of the scrambler therapy. She explained that it can put conditions like complex regional pain syndrome into remission – which can be permanent – and benefit other issues such as nerve pain caused by chemotherapy.

“It’s not going against advice you get here but the condition isn’t widely known, and most medical people I spoke to didn’t know about scrambler therapy,” she said.

“But the difference it made to Izzy was quite incredible. I’m going to write to my MP and see if there are any UK cases as if it could be looked at here, it could be massive for so many people.”

To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

A horse who loves bananas, a rider who nearly missed her class and an all-boys jump-off: meet the 2026 national champions

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 12:05:00 +0000

The 2026 British Showjumping National Championships have concluded – and the winners include a horse who loves bananas, a rider who almost didn’t get there at all and a 10-year-old combination tackling their toughest challenge yet.

Madison Heath and BP Millionaire were crowned national champions for the first time; the 21-year-old rider and Carrera Stud’s fabulous eight-year-old continued their blistering run this season, which includes winning both under-25 championships at Bolesworth, by seeing off all comers in the international stairway final.

Madison and “Dollar” were fourth to go of six in the jump-off, from 33 starters, and they were in blazing form, the Million Dollar gelding showing his incredible power and the agility to pull off the cracking turns that kept them a third of a second in front of runners-up Chris Franks and Kannabalou.

“I don’t think it’s hit me yet!” Madison said of becoming national champion. “We were in France in July, looking at the nationals and saying, ‘We should go and I might have a chance of the under-25 ticket.’ I didn’t even realise the stairway final was on day three; I thought I’ll see how he’s going and if he’s up for it.”

He most certainly was. Madison said Dollar was slightly over-jumping the big tracks the first few days to ensure he left them up, “but he loved it”.

“He’s naturally quick and the more you dare him, the more he’s ‘I’m on it’,” she said, thanking her flatwork coach Kim Belton and trainer Rob Bevis for their support.

“At the start of the week I couldn't jump a clear round – but I'm happy to go home now we've got the title.”

Madison has said before how much Dollar loves bananas; she promised him a bunch of them if he jumped clear in the seven-year-old final at Hickstead’s September Tour last year, and he got them after he won.

“He hasn’t had his bananas yet, just Stud Muffins as I haven’t been to the shop!” she said the day after her win. “But he will be getting a full bunch.”

Raphaela Dawson and Maifield Another Sunrise (Image credit: 1st Class Images)

Raphaela Dawson continued her fabulous summer by winning the national 148cm title with Maifield Another Sunrise – although she nearly didn’t get to the show at all.

The 15-year-old, who won the 148cm title at Hickstead last month and was on the team that won European gold a week later, got stuck in a motorway traffic jam en route to the nationals, arrived 10 minutes before the class started, then pulled off a fabulous win.

“It’s been amazing,” she said.

Six of 32 starters had jumped clear in the first round and three had faults in the jump-off. Asked if she thought it was a tough course, Raphaela said she hadn’t been able to walk it.

“We got there at 3.50pm, and the class started at 4pm,” she said. “Someone sent me a picture of the course plan and I watched one but it must have been tougher than I thought.”

Raphaela had an unexpected refusal with her first ride, MHS Glow, and when she came in last with “Gizmo”, she put her foot down, sealing the deal with a beautiful turn to the double and taking a stride out to the last.

“They had all last week off during the Europeans, went training on Wednesday then came here,” she said. “We were second in this in 2024 and unlucky to have the last fence last year so to win is really good after coming so close.”

Anya Dewey Clarke retained her 138cm title with Fredaine De Blonde, holding her lead from second in the six-strong jump-off. The winners of the winter title at Hickstead made the tough track look easy as they flew in their customary style, every stride and turn on point.

“I can’t believe we won Hickstead, then two weeks later the nationals for the second time,” said Anya “I knew it would be a really fast jump-off, I knew all my turns and that we had to go for it. She gave it her all, she trusts me and I trust her back.”

Conor Barnes and Creevagh Pringles (Image credit: 1st Class Images)

Conor Barnes and Creevagh Pringles were taking on their biggest track yet in the 128cm championships – and won with the only double clear.

Conor and the 10-year-old mare were first of two in a boys-only jump-off; their super clear put Michael Kelly and Ryehall Belle Couture’s 12 faults into second.

Conor, who is also 10, has competed in stepping stones finals; his mother Caroline thought he could have a go at bigger tracks this summer with this mare he has been riding for only three months.

He said the course looked “massive”.

“She has quite a strong canter, which I like as it means I can sit and wait,” he said. “She’s very genuine, and she’s: ‘This is my way and how I’m going to do it’; I’ve had to learn how to ride her.

“I’ve never jumped that big before and I didn’t try to go too fast, just go clear and do a few turns. This means we’ve qualified for London International; I’m very excited about that.”

See this week’s H&H magazine, out 13 August, for the full report from the 2026 British Showjumping National Championships.

To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Sometimes sport has other plans’: rider out of World Championships as he broke his leg at the 11th hour

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:51:39 +0000

UAE rider Abdullah Mohd Al Marri is out of next week’s showjumping World Championships as he has broken his leg in an accident.

The 42-year-old rider had been due to make his worlds debut in Aachen next week with BBS McGregor, with whom he represented the UAE at the Paris Olympics, but on Sunday (9 August) he said: “Sometimes sport has other plans for us”.

“It’s difficult to put into words how I feel knowing that I will miss the World [Championships] in Aachen due to an injury,” he said.

“Representing the UAE on the world stage is something I never take for granted. Aachen was a championship I was incredibly proud to qualify for, and one I had been working towards with my horses, my team, my family and everyone around me for a long time.”

Abdullah said he had an accident, resulting in a fractured fibula, which “brought that journey to an unexpected end”.

“This sport has given me some of the greatest moments of my life, but it has also taught me that setbacks are part of the journey,” he said. “You can prepare for everything, give everything, and sometimes things still don’t go according to plan.

“Of course, I’m disappointed. But I’m also grateful. Grateful for my horses, my team, my family and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. And especially grateful for every opportunity I have had to ride into an arena carrying the UAE flag.

“For now, the focus changes from competition to recovery. All the best to our UAE team in Aachen, I am sure they will do our country proud.”

Abdullah Mohd Al Marri replaced by Sheika Latifah

Abdullah’s place is taken by Sheikha Latifah bint Ahmed bin Juma Al Maktoum, who was the first woman to represent the UAE in equestrianism at an Olympics, in 2008. She also competed at the 2010 World Equestrian Games; she travels to Aachen with 10-year-old Hanoverian stallion Cornet XL.

Chef d’equipe William Funnell said: “Every rider has earned their place on this team through consistent performances and hard work throughout the season.

“Championship competition is unlike any other. Success comes from preparation, trust in your horse and producing four solid performances when it matters most.

“We know the standard in Aachen will be exceptionally high, but this group has shown it can compete with the very best and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”

To stay up to date with the latest news and reports throughout the Aachen World Championships, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

How to watch the FEI World Championships live from anywhere in the world

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:05:28 +0000

Watch the FEI World Championships live from Aachen this week and join thousands of fans in watching the ultimate showcase of equestrian sport. Today is the final day of the championships – and we’re finishing with the individual freestyle in the para dressage, the showjumping individual final, and the cones in the driving.

While we’ll be reporting on the dressage, eventing, showjumping and para dressage, this page reveals when, where and how you can watch all the equestrian sports at the 2026 FEI World Championships.

At a glance

FEI World Championship dates: 11–23 August 2026
Watch on TV: ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV
Watch for free: RTBF (Belgium) / CBC (Canada) / ZDF (Germany) / SVT Play (Sweden)
Watch the FEI World Championships from anywhere: Use this NordVPN deal – 75% Off

Today at the FEI World Championships

Sunday 23 August

Para dressage

Individual freestyle tests – all grades
Starts 7.15am UK/8.15am local

Driving

Marathon
Starts 7.30am UK/8.30am local

Showjumping

Individual final
Starts 1.20am UK/2.20am local
Follow with H&H’s live showjumping World Championships reports service

How to watch the FEI World Championships on TV

There is no complete terrestrial TV coverage of the FEI World Championships in the UK or US. ClipMyHorse.TV and FEI.TV will be the only place you can follow all the action live or on demand. ClipMyHorse.TV is showing every session across all sports during the fortnight of competition in Aachen.

This will be complete live coverage of the World Championships, including all disciplines, with additional editorial content and multiple commentary options for a complete viewing experience.

Find the broadcast schedule for each sport below.

If you’re away from home, you can use NordVPN to secure your stream of the action from anywhere in the world.

ClipMyHorse.TV discount code

You can save 26% on a ClipMyHorse.TV subscription until 23 August 2026 with code AACHEN26. This discount is for new and returning customers without an active membership – this brings the cost to around £154 for your first year’s subscription.

Visit tv.fei.org to claim your discount.

ClipMyHorse.TV commentary options

ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV is available to viewers across the world with the following commentary options for each sport. Each sport is also available to view without commentary.

Dressage: English, German, Dutch, Spanish, French or Swedish
Eventing: English, German or French
Showjumping: English, German, Dutch, Spanish, Norwegian, Swedish, French or Czech
Para Dressage: English
Vaulting: English or German
Driving: English or German

Watch FEI World Championships for free

ClipMyHorse.TV/FEI.TV is available to viewers across the world but some countries are also hosting free streams of a selection of sports, including Canada, Denmark Germany, Belgium and Sweden.

These streams are usually geo-blocked, but if you’re worried about accessing your usual free stream while you’re away, you can use a VPN.

🇨🇦 Canada 🇨🇦

Fans viewing from Canada can watch live on CBC as well as highlights on Rural TV.

🇩🇰 Denmark 🇩🇰

Viewers in Denmark can watch the para dressage via DRTV for free.

🇩🇪 Germany 🇩🇪

Viewers in Germany can stream for free on ZDF and ARD.

🇧🇪 Belgium 🇧🇪

RTBF will show the showjumping live (you’ll need to create a free account), while HippoTV will broadcast highlights.

🇸🇪 Sweden 🇸🇪

Viewers in Sweden can watch the showjumping via SVT Play for free.

How to watch the FEI World Championships from anywhere

If you’re away from home and your normal coverage is geo-blocked, a VPN will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

NordVPN exclusive deal – 75% Off
– Up to 75% off two-year plans
– Just £2.59/monthView Deal

FEI World Championships broadcast times

Local time is CEST.

Showjumping times
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Wednesday 19 August	Speed leg	9.30am	8.30am
Thursday 20 August	Team round one	9am	8am
Friday 21 August	Team round two 🏅	6.50pm	5.50pm
Sunday 23 August	Individual final 🏅	2.20pm	1.20pm

Para dressage times
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Wednesday 19 August	Individual grade I, II, III 🏅	8.30am	7.30am
Thursday 20 August	Individual grade IV, V 🏅	9am	8am
Friday 21 August	Team test grade I, II, III 🏅	9am	8am
Saturday 22 August	Team test grade VI, V 🏅	8.30am	7.30am
Sunday 23 August	Individual freestyle grade I, II, III, VI, V 🏅	8.15am	7.15am

Driving times
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Thursday 20 August	Dressage day one	10.30am	9.30am
Friday 21 August	Dressage day two	10.30pm	9.30am
Saturday 22 August	Marathon	10am	9am
Sunday 23 August	Cones 🏅	8.30am	7.30am

Dressage times – now complete
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Tuesday 11 August	Grand prix day one	8.20am	7.20am
Wednesday 12 August	Grand prix day two 🏅	8.20am	7.20am
Friday 14 August	Grand prix special 🏅	8.30am	7.30am
Saturday 15 August	Grand prix freestyle 🏅	7pm	6pm

Eventing times – now complete
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Thursday 13 August	Dressage day one	9.30am	8.30am
Friday 14 August	Dressage day two	9.30am	8.30am
Saturday 15 August	Cross-country	9.15am	8.15am
Sunday 16 August	Showjumping 🏅	1pm	12pm

Vaulting times – now complete
Date	Session	Start time (local)	Start time (UK)
Thursday 13 August	Compulsory test male	8.30am	7.30am
Thursday 13 August	Compulsory test female	1.30pm	12.30pm
Thursday 13 August	Compulsory test squad	3.30pm	2.30pm
Friday 14 August	Technical test female	8.30am	7.30am
Friday 14 August	Technical test male	5pm	4pm
Friday 14 August	Pas de Deux 1st round	7pm	6pm
Saturday 15 August	Female freestyle 🏅	8am	7am
Saturday 15 August	Male freestyle 🏅	1.15pm	12.15am
Saturday 15 August	Squad freestyle 🏅	3.45pm	2.45pm
Sunday 16 August	Pas de deux final 🏅	9.30am	8.30am
Sunday 16 August	Nations Cup 🏅	12pm	11am

Follow the action with H&H

We’re sending dressage editor Oscar Williams and eventing editor Pippa Roome out to Germany to bring you all the news directly from Aachen, and we have staff at home supporting our coverage so we can bring you the fullest possible reporting of every aspect of the sport.

Follow our live news report services where we will bring you our expert insights and analysis, plus comments from the riders.

To stay up to date with all the latest news from the FEI World Championships, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Olympic champion and two superstar Brits top the podium for Britain’s richest ever showjumping prize: ‘I saw Scott Brash’s round and knew I had to go all-in'

Sarah Radford — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 20:30:22 +0000

Christian Kukuk and Checker 57 have already made a mark on history as the reigning Olympic champions and they added to their legacy when they became the first combination to take back-to-back victories in the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) grand prix of London on Sunday 9 August.

“It’s always a special thing to win back-to-back,” Christian Kukuk said. “These are the moments where this horse is just outstanding and special because he can kind of smell it and feel it, and then he just does things that are outstanding.”

Longines Global Champions Tour London: Britain's richest ever showjumping prize

This year’s edition of the Longines Global Champions Tour London was the richest grand prix ever staged in Britain, with the prize fund doubled to €1million, €250k of which was reserved for the winner.

Uliano Vezzani’s track was skilfully crafted — most of those that faulted had just the one or two poles, which fell all round – but perhaps didn’t quite match the billing, jumping softer than it walked, with 14 combinations surviving the first round.

Just two of these were for Britain — Scott Brash with his European silver medallist Hello Folie and Harry Charles with Ballypatrick Tiberius, who was jumping his first five-star grand prix.

Flying in the face of the odds, Harry established a benchmark lead from early doors on the phenomenally scopey 10-year-old. It was his regular GB teammate Scott who overturned his target, finding just shy of a whole second as he braved some shearing turns with the sassy 11-year-old mare.

But Christian can ask questions of the great, 16-year-old grey that others can’t. Their unfettered charge down to the tricky double at fence 8, resting against the boards on the Chelsea Hospital side of the arena, was a gamble no one else could have matched, and they found 0.18sec to rob Scott of victory.

“It was a bit of the same situation as last year. That time I saw Ben Maher and knew I really had to go all-in, and this time I saw Scott and knew I had to go all-in,” Christian said.

“The way that [Checker] went to the double — it was unreal that he was still able to jump that. That is why he’s an Olympic champion, that is why he’s one of the best horses in the world. That’s where he is weird! I am proud of him for winning that today.

“All year I’ve been saying that he feels like he did two or three years ago,” he added. “He doesn’t feel his age, he’s still excited and he wants to win the class.”

Christian Kukuk, Scott Brash and Harry Charles enjoy the champagne on the podium for the Longines Global Champions Tour grand prix of London (Image credit: Longines Global Champions Tour)

“Maybe I could have shaved a fraction here or there"

Scott is the only other rider to have scored consecutive wins in this grand prix, but on different horses, winning in 2017 with Hello Forever and 2018 with Hello Mr President – and this was the closest he has come to victory since.

“When you have the likes of Christian still coming behind you, you know it’s never over because they’re so fast,” Scott said. “I was delighted with my mare’s performance, I knew I was going to be tough to beat but Checker and Christian are a very experienced combination. Everything had to go right for them and it did.

“You always look back and think maybe I could have shaved a fraction here or there, but from where we were in the draw, what we went in to do, we delivered. When you get beat you get beat and you’ve got to take it on the chin.”

Harry’s third place defied his expectations and flagged a very promising future for the Caligula gelding, who began his career eventing with Gaspard Maksud, who transitioned him to showjumping.

“I wasn’t nervous putting him in this today because, although it’s his first five-star grand prix, what I’ve seen from him at home, I knew he would jump it. I said that two down would have been what I would expect right now, one down, I’d be very happy, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he jumped clear, because he’s been showing enough promise," said Harry, who bought him last September.

“The jump off was a bit of a hit and hope but he stayed with me and he’s so fast, he’s such a freak in terms of scope. He can be a bit difficult but the thing that makes him difficult is the same thing, I think, that a lot of great horses have.”

You can read the full report from the Longines Global Champions Tour of London in next week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 13 August. To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘He’s 19 years young and loves the big stage’: Olympic medal-winning eventer comes out of retirement for international showjumping debut

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 17:38:24 +0000

At “19 years young and with a billion miles on the clock from eventing”, double Olympic medal-winning horse Toledo De Kerser has been enjoying a quieter life in recent years.

But, judging by his electric performances over the coloured showjumping poles at the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) of London this week (7-9 August), Toledo is clearly relishing being back in the limelight with rider Tom McEwen.

“He’s a horse for a big stage and it’s very rare - especially when they’re slowing down in later life - that they get the chance to come out and jump again on the bigger stage. So he absolutely loved it,” Tom told H&H after competing in front of the packed grandstands at this prestigious show in central London, acquitting themselves extremely well against a field of seasoned CSI2* showjumpers.

Toledo De Kerser: a new chapter

The curtain came down on Toledo’s stellar eventing career in 2023 owing to an injury but Tom has continued to “find things for him to do” in his retirement.

“It’s good for him mentally and physically,” he explained of the superstar Diamant De Semilly gelding, owned by Fred and Penny Barker, Jane Inns and Tom’s mother Ali.

Tom McEwen and Toledo De Kerser competing in the eventing at WEG 2018. (Image credit: credit unknown)

Toledo’s first venture into the world of pure showjumping came in a 90cm British Showjumping (BS) class at Rectory Farm in August last year, before they made a surprise appearance, jumping HC, at Wellington Riding Centre in October. The pair then stepped up the levels in national classes this summer and Toledo has even been enjoying some dressage with young US rider Jack Curtis, who is based at Tom’s Gloucestershire stables.

Tom is in the final countdown to next week’s eventing World Championships in Aachen, where he has been selected to represent Great Britain with JL Dublin. However he leapt at the chance to compete in the CSI2* LGCT classes in London, also bringing Ian Barratt’s lovely showjumping mare Kilcannon Mischeif, with whom he qualified for Horse of the Year Show last year.

"Toledo feels like exactly the same horse" says Tom McEwen

Despite an unassuming entrance for their international showjumping debut - Toledo De Kerser was simply announced to the crowd by his name and breeding - excited murmurings rippled through the stands as those in the know recognised the Tokyo Olympic team gold and individual silver medal-winning combination soaring over the coloured poles in front of them.

Clearly buoyed by the big crowds he craved, Toledo jumped a spectacular double clear with a gleam in his eye and a swagger in his stride during Friday’s 1.25m two-phase to take fifth place. They then finished in the prize money again in Saturday’s 1.30m Hyde Park Stables trophy. Never has a horse looked so happy to be cantering round on his lap of honour.

“Toledo may be getting a bit older, but actually he doesn’t feel any different from his eventing days - he’s the exact same horse, which is amazing,” added Tom, who was joined by wife Harriet and son Dougie at the three-day show.

“Toledo showed that, at 19, he can still come out and jump like that. I know it’s only a 1.25m class, but we’ll do the 1.30ms over the weekend and just have a nice time.

“I think it’s good for both sports - it shows that a horse’s life doesn’t have to be over when he’s finished eventing,” added Tom. “There’s plenty more that horses like him can go on and do and he is having a great time doing something different.”

We loved Toledo De Kerser during his distinguished eventing career and we might adore him even more as he enjoys his new past-time as an international showjumper - one who still believes he can conquer the world.

You can read the full report from the London leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour in next week's Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 13 August.

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

Championships among events to cancel as dry conditions affect ground preparation

Becky Murray — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:03:03 +0000

The British Riding Clubs (BRC) national championships have been cancelled, as the dry conditions in England take their toll.

The BRC team announced with “great disappointment” that the championships, due to take place in Lincolnshire on 5-6 September, are off. The competition had been due to run dressage and showjumping. The BRC horse trials championships at Swalcliffe went ahead on 1-2 August.

“The recent dry and hot conditions have meant that the ground cannot be prepared to a suitable standard for competition to take place. The weather forecast for the weeks leading up to the championship show no significant rainfall, so we have no other choice but to cancel the event,” said a BRC spokesperson.

“Every effort has gone into finding an alternative date or venue, but postponing or relocating an event the size of the national championships is just not feasible given the timescales we are working to.”

The spokesperson added that BRC “knows this will be very disappointing for those that have qualified for what is a real highlight of the calendar”.

“We are currently working through our abandonment insurance process and will release more information on refunds due as soon as we are able. Please bear with us during this time and we will be in touch with team managers directly,” he said.

The https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/tag/british-eventing fixture at West Wilts (18-19 August) is off owing to "unprecedented drought conditions”.

“The welfare of horses, riders, and the long-term condition of the ground must remain the highest priority,” said a BE spokesperson.

“Unfortunately, despite every effort and careful consideration, the current conditions do not allow the organisers to provide the safe and consistent going that competitors rightly expect.”

West Wilts organiser Pete Collins confirmed the 5-6 September fixture is still due to run and “conditions will be closely monitored over the coming weeks”.

“We are committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure the ground conditions are suitable and safe for competition. As part of this, we plan to aerate the ground ahead of the September event to improve the going and encourage any available moisture to penetrate the soil,” he said.

“Should we continue to experience dry conditions, we may have to reseed the affected areas after the event to aid recovery and protect the long-term quality of the course.

Mr Collins thanked all the competitors, officials, volunteers and supporters for their understanding and continued support. The venue is running arena eventing combined training on 16 and 18 August, on surfaces.

The PRB Horseboxes Cotswold Cup qualifiers have also been affected; the Ascott under Wychwood competition on 5-6 September is off and the Eland Lodge event on 16 August will run under a revised format.

“It is with real sadness that the team at Ascott under Wychwood have unfortunately made the decision that they will not be able to prepare the ground to a sufficient standard to host their Cotswold Cup qualifier,” said a spokesperson for the series.

“This was such a tough decision and they have held off as long as possible to make it, praying for some rain, but in light of the current conditions on the site they have made an early decision to enable competitors to re-route. We fully support them with both horse and human welfare at the forefront of their decision.”

The Eland Lodge fixture will run under an “arena eventing format”. Competitors will do dressage on grass and showjumping and cross-country in an all-weather arena.

“With the exceptionally dry ground preventing the team from preparing the cross-country course to the standard they would like, the team at Eland Lodge has gone above and beyond to ensure competitors can still enjoy a high-class Cotswold Cup qualifier,” the spokesperson said.

“The revised format reflects Eland Lodge’s commitment to horse welfare, rider safety and delivering a top-quality competition, despite the challenges presented by the current weather. Entry fees will be slightly reduced, and all competitors who have already entered will automatically receive a refund for the difference in entry fees.”

BE fixture Chepstow at Howick (2) has cancelled its 21-22 September event, but this is due to “farming commitments”.

“We are unable to provide the flexibility needed to run the event to the standard we expect, and so we have made the difficult decision to cancel this fixture,” said the organisers.

“We are truly sorry for any disappointment this may cause, especially after such a fantastic event in July. We were delighted with the wonderful feedback from so many, and we would like to thank all our competitors, owners, volunteers, officials, sponsors, and supporters for helping make it such a success.

“We look forward to welcoming you back to Howick horse trials in 2027, when we’re excited to introduce our brand-new water complex alongside another fantastic event.”

To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘She wanted help’: calls for combined health support on anniversary of talented rider’s death

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:08:52 +0000

The mother of a showjumper who excelled at national level, represented her country and “filled a room with her smile” has paid tribute to everything she was, as she highlights the lack of support that could have saved her.

Lola Wade died aged 37 just over a year ago after a “long and courageous battle with mental illness and addiction”, her mother Karen Finn said, as she did not get the help she needed for her dual diagnosis.

Karen spoke to H&H as she wanted Lola’s life and many achievements celebrated, and she feels not doing so sends the wrong message about those who suffer as Lola did.

“Despite constant reassurance from those who loved her, Lola carried a deep sense of shame,” she said. “The final years of her life were filled with unimaginable pain and suffering.”

Lola loved horses from the start, riding and looking after ponies in every spare minute. She started competing in showing alongside the likes of Laura Collett, qualifying twice for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). She moved into showjumping to huge success, earning sponsorship from Wightlink Ferries from her Isle of Wight home, travelling the country and qualifying over the years for just about every pony jumping final at HOYS and representing Britain on Nations Cup and junior European teams.

(Image credit: None)

The family moved to Surrey, bought a derelict property and set up a yard. Lola trained with Mark Armstrong and over the years went on to more national success, at HOYS, riding for the Renwicks, David and Louise Simpson, Brendon Stud at Pyecombe and Ali Jackson.

“It’s a hard slog for a girl on her own, and I think she started to suffer with her mental health around that time,” Karen said. “I think she had probably suffered throughout her life with it a bit, but it wasn’t obvious.”

Lola moved to London and started a new job there, but then suffered a major mental health issue and was taken to hospital.

“Getting help was a nightmare,” Karen said. “She saw doctor after doctor and she was on medication, which helped when she took it, but the problem with a dual diagnosis, if you’ve got mental health and an addiction, there’s no service in the UK that treats both. In the last few years when we were getting seriously worried about her, we tried to get her into NHS rehab and were told she wasn’t ill enough.

“We had a meeting with her psychiatrist a week before she died and they asked if there was anything I was worried about and I said ‘She’ll die if you don’t do something.’ And she did.”

Karen said Lola did not die as a result of an overdose, it was bad drugs.

“She wanted help, she needed someone to take control of her and there was no one available,” she said. “There’s no proper help for a dual diagnosis, which is disgraceful.”

Karen wants to highlight these failings in the system, as she believes dual-diagnosis centres, at which psychiatrists and addiction specialists worked together, would give people more of a chance.

(Image credit: None)

“She was beautiful, intelligent, talented,” she said. “She loved her horses and showjumping, she was very vivacious and intelligent. You’d think she should have had it all but if you’re dealt that kind of illness, there’s no help. This could be anyone’s child.”

Pyecombe ran a Lola Wade memorial grand prix on Sunday (2 August), won by Fraser Reed and SES Jumeirah. The first prize was £1,000, thanks to donations from Lola’s friends and family.

Caz Light, who runs Pyecombe shows, told H&H Lola rode many horses whose offspring were competing at the show. The team is also installing a bench by the ring, draped in banners in Lola’s favourite colour, purple. There were turnout and grooms’ prizes, as well as rugs and sashes in Lola’s colours.

“We thought it would be a nice way to remember her,” she said, adding that most of the organising was thanks to Lola’s close friend James Hawkins, who also works there.

“She competed here regularly, she rode for us, worked for us, we were her local centre. So it was apt and fitting that we worked together and came up with doing this class for Lola.”

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‘A very special horse’: farewell to talented stallion who sired Ben Maher's 2026 World Championship ride

Becky Murray — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:59:29 +0000

Action Breaker, the five-star showjumping stallion and sire to many top level horses, has died aged 26.

The Heartbreaker son competed at the highest level with his owner, Spain’s Sergio Alvarez Moya, alongside his successful breeding career.

“Time to say goodbye to Action Breaker, a very special horse that I was privileged to ride from three-year-old all the way to a third place in the Aachen grand prix,” said Sergio, on 3 August.

In 2004 Action Breaker was crowned four-year-old Belgian champion. He started his international showjumping career in 2008 and soon progressed up the ranks to five-star.

Sergio and Action Breaker made Nations Cup team appearances at top venues including Gijon, Rotterdam, Hickstead and Aachen. They contested World Cup legs in Leipzig, Lyon and Geneva and jumped at Monte Carlo, Hamburg and Madrid as part of the Global Champions Tour.

The pair were part of the Spanish team at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky and in September 2014 they were part of the team at the Caen WEG. Later that year Action Breaker retired from competition, aged 14.

“His health stopped us at an early age but he gave us very special moments,” said Sergio.

“He had a very good retirement in Casas Novas until his last day. Thanks and rest in peace my friend.”

Action Breaker will live on in his talented offspring; 239 are registered on the FEI database ranging from eight- to 22 years old. One of his best known offspring is 12-year-old stallion Point Break, Ben Maher’s ride for the 2026 World Championships in Aachen, who was runner-up at the 2025 World Cup Final. Another notable son is Billy Twomey’s 10-year-old Ace of Hearts Z, who stepped up to 1.60m level this year.

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Double gold for Great Britain’s pony riders is a ‘dream’

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 09:19:22 +0000

In another glorious week for young British riders, Sophia Rogers claimed double gold at the 2026 Pony European Showjumping Championships. A succession of superb faultless performances with the brilliant Neil 55 earned the teenage rider both the team and individual titles, the first time this feat has been achieved since 2016 when Sophia’s compatriot Jack Whitaker claimed the brace of golds.

Double gold at the FEI European Championships for Ponies in Le Mans, France, came just a week after Great Britain’s children won gold and an assortment of other medals at the European Championships in Hagen, Germany.

Heartbreaking four faults concludes 2026 Pony European Showjumping Championships

Sophia says she trusts 14-year-old gelding Neil 55 (Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve x Koriander) “with my whole heart” and they produced one of six double clears in the high-pressure individual final.

She benefited from the heartbreaking four faults incurred by final rider Ted Fagan (Ballyfore Rosie) of Ireland to claim her first individual championship title, topping the leader board on 3.63 penalties. Remarkably, the top seven riders all hailed from either Great Britain or Ireland; championship debutant Ted ended up with silver on his four penalties, and another British rider, Lucia Caroline, won bronze with Holly Blue.

“I’m ecstatic,” said Sophia, who took over the reins on the multiple medal- and championship-winning Neil 55 from her older sister Izabella two years ago, but the pony has been a cherished part of the family since he was a three-year-old. “He’s the best pony I could ever have asked for.

“I knew that once I jumped a clear [in the final round], the worst I was coming out with was a silver. It’s a dream to even get to the European Championships and to get on a podium. It’s an honour to win.

“I want to thank my mum, because she helps me behind the scenes and got my pony ready for me while I was staying calm with my trainer,” she added. “Everybody plays a part in this achievement of mine.”

Lucia Caroline and Holly Blue win individual bronze and team gold at the 2026 pony European Championships in Le Mans, France. (Image credit: FEI / Libby Law Photography)

Team honours at the pony Europeans: "I'm really proud"

Sophia Rogers’ heroic gold medal haul began two days earlier when she was part of the British team that topped the podium ahead of Ireland and Belgium. This marked a third successive title for Great Britain’s pony riders, led by chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker.

“I’m really proud of them all,” said Clare. “They all rode well. I just keep telling them to concentrate on what they’re doing and not worry about anybody else.

“It was good, very good, but it went to the wire, and our last two riders had to jump clear to win gold.

Great Britain wins gold, Ireland takes silver and Belgium bronze at the 2026 Pony European Showjumping Championships in Le Mans, France. (Image credit: FEI / Libby Law Photography)

Sophia and Lucia were joined by Henry Leggott riding Blossom’s Big Claim, who also went on to finish fourth in Sunday’s individual final, and Raphaela Dawson riding her recent Royal International JC championship winner Woody Allen Van Duysverputten.

The team triumphed with a team score of 14.14 penalties, all of which came from the new-format table C opening leg. Only one fence fell across the final two rounds as the British quartet delivered a series of impeccable performances.

Henry Leggott and Blossom's Big Claim winning team gold for Great Britain at the 2026 Pony European Showjumping Championships in Le Mans, France. (Image credit: FEI / Libby Law Photography)

“I didn’t expect to come home with two medals,” said championship debutante Lucia, the youngest rider on the British team at 14. “My pony is brave and tries her hardest all the time. She’s the best.”

After a nail-biting conclusion, Ireland’s team of Ted Fagan, Charlie Flynn (Montana), Robbie Sheehan (Pjotr Van De Groenhevel) and Sam Widger (BP Bon Jovi) finished barely a point behind on 15.35 penalties to claim the silver medal.

“To get two silver medals here is unbelievable,” said Ted. “I didn’t expect to win a medal at all.”

Raphaela Dawson and Woody Allen Van Duyversputten help Great Britain win team gold at the 2026 Pony European Showjumping Championships in Le Mans, France. (Image credit: FEI / Libby Law Photography)

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‘Never underestimate the importance of a venue,’ says Tim Gredley

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

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.

● Is the sport going in the right direction? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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‘We’ll give it a go!’: five-star eventer named on veteran European showjumping squad

Becky Murray — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:51:28 +0000

Five-star eventer Louise Harwood has been named on the British team at the veteran European Showjumping Championships (5–9 August) as she confirms a new chapter.

Louise and her long-term eventing partner Native Spirit will join Corrine Beech and Amigo SWB, Anthony Clark with Rempstone Toronto, Douglas Edward on Golden Boy de Jarsa and Jo Siddans with Nimble-S, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Louise is not the only eventer on the team; Anthony competes at four-star level and Douglas finished ninth in the Osberton CCI3*-L in 2023 but has been concentrating on on showjumping the past two years.

Louise, 50, has been carving a new path for herself since she stepped back from eventing following a serious fall with Blues Cloud in the Blenheim CCI4*-S in 2024. Louise sustained multiple injuries, her horse was uninjured.

“It wasn’t a conscious decision to stop eventing, but since my fall there’s the odd thing my body is still struggling with. It’s knowing whether it will lean back, sit up and do all the right things in the right places to go across country,” Louise told H&H.

“At the moment, I don’t think I’ll return. Native has lost all his FEI qualifications so I’d need to go back to the beginning and it would cost a fortune to get him back up to four- and five-star – plus he’s 17.

“I think I’ve ticked that box. I’ve completed 24 five-stars. Is it time to do something different in my life? I think maybe.”

But Louise has not lost her love of competing and showjumping is providing that fix.

“Eventing has done me a lot of good and I’ve loved my time doing it, but there are other things out there. Some people go to dressage, but my horses wouldn’t be good enough at that and I don’t think I’d get enough of an adrenaline rush,” she said.

“I love winning, and being able to be competitive. I’m not as fast, and my horses are not as fast as showjumping horses, but if we can do a good angle we can get pretty close to them. Because of the eventing, we can sometimes to a sneakier, cheekier angle than some. It’s a lot of fun.”

Louise and Native Spirit qualified for Horse of the Year Show last year, finishing fifth in the NAF Five Star Silver League Championship.

“HOYS gave me an inkling that I’d like to do some of the ‘razzmatazz’ shows – although I need a fair kit and team of horses to be able to do that, so I need to get some owners on the way,” she said.

“I miss the razzmatazz of Badminton and Burghley.”

Next week Louise and Native Spirit will travel to Copenhagen as part of the British team for the veteran Europeans.

“I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully Native will be on good form and we’ll give it a go!” she said.

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2026 Showjumping World Championships

Horse & Hound — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 14:47:43 +0000

The 2026 Showjumping World Championships were held in Aachen, Germany as part of the FEI World Championships (11-23 August). The showjumping took place during the second week of the championships, kicking off with the speed leg on Wednesday 19 August. This was followed by two days of team competition (20-21 August), then a rest day before the individual final (23 August).

Horse & Hound brought you all the news in the run-up to the event (plus our complete showjumping World Championships form guide), as well as in-depth live news reports on the action as it took place. H&H’s magazine editor Pippa Roome, who has reported at numerous championships across the disciplines, was on the ground interviewing the riders after their rounds. H&H’s showjumping editor Jennifer Donald was overseeing the reporting from back in the UK, supported by the wider editorial team, as we brought you the stories behind the medals, as they happened.

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Showjumping individual medals

Showjumping legend wins individual world title

Harry Charles and ‘dream horse’ Freda pull off fabulous bronze

Showjumping team medals

Brilliant team bronze for Britain

Germany on form for gold

Medals

Medals	Team	Individual
Gold	Germany	Steve Guerdat and Dymanix De Belheme (SUI)
Silver	Belgium	Thibeau Spits and Impress-K van't Kattenheye Z (BEL)
Bronze	Great Britain	Harry Charles and LT Holst Freda (GBR)

Showjumping World Championships timetable

Date	Showjumping	Local times	UK times	Medal ceremonies
Monday 17 August	First horse inspection
Tuesday 18 August	Training session	9am–4.15pm	8am–3.15pm
Wednesday 19 August	Speed leg	9.30am–5.20pm	8.30am–4.20pm
Thursday 20 August	Team round one	9am–5.10pm	8am–4.10pm
Friday 21 August	Team round two	6.50–10.50pm	5.50–9.50pm	🏅 Team
Saturday 22 August
Sunday 23 August	Individual final	2.20–5.20pm	1.20–4.20pm	🏅Individual

Showjumping World Championships format

The 2026 World Showjumping Championships take place from Monday, 17 August to Sunday, 23 August 2026. The famous final-four horse-swap decider was dropped after the World Equestrian Games in 2014 and since then these championships have run in line with previous world and European formats with four-rider teams and a drop score. The team medals are decided first, concluding with the individual medals.

What happens each day?

All team and individual riders start with Wednesday’s speed leg, where faults are penalised by seconds added to the time. Each rider’s score is converted via a coefficient into points.

Two rounds of team jumping then follow, with the top 10 teams from Thursday’s competition progressing to Friday’s final under the floodlights. The top 60 individual riders also compete. Team medals are awarded on Friday 21 August.

Sunday’s individual final consists of two rounds, the first for the 25 best placed horses and riders after the first three legs of competition, with the top 12 then qualifying for the medal-deciding round two.

What else is on the schedule?

Two prestigious international competitions for under-25 young riders take place on Friday and Saturday. Friday is a speed competition while Saturday’s competition is for drawn teams of four, regardless of nations. Each team will be supported by a team manager.

Aachen world championships officials

Showjumping world championships course-designer

World-famous German course-builder Frank Rothenberger, who has been involved in six Olympics, is Aachen’s resident designer and he will be designing the fences and courses for the showjumping World Championships in Aachen. Paris 2024 Olympic designer Santiago Varela, from Spain, is assigned as technical delegate.

Other showjumping officials

Ground jury: Patrice Alvado (FRA) (President), Harry Braspenning (NED), Anna Lindqvist (SWE), Kazuya Hirayama (JPN), Andrew Pollard (GBR).

Chief steward: Maria Hernek (SWE)

Veterinary officials: week two

Veterinary commission: Friedrich-Wilhelm Hanbücken (GER) (President), Berndt Stanglmeier (CAN), Constanze Zach (AUT)

Veterinary delegate: Thierry Grisard (FRA)

Overall chief steward: Cesar Hirsch (VEN)

Why is it not the Aachen World Equestrian Games?

Aachen previously hosted the FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) in 2006. WEG brought together the World Championships in multiple different equestrian sports every four years between 1990 and 2018. Financial challenges associated with hosting so many disciplines at a single venue proved prohibitive and so since 2022 each of the disciplines have have their own World Championships. For 2026, Aachen was granted the World Championships for six disciplines, so is running a two-week combined World Championships – but it is not a WEG.

Showjumping World Championships news

‘Timing is everything’: eventing medallist withdraws from World Championships showjumping team

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:44:27 +0000

US showjumper Marilyn Little has withdrawn from the team for the Aachen World Championships as her ride La Contessa has sustained a minor injury.

US Equestrian (USEF) has confirmed that the 11-year-old mare and Marilyn have had to pull out; they have been replaced by Natalie Dean and Mr Boombastic.

“La Contessa sustained a minor injury in pre-preparation for the championships, and in prioritising her best interests, Little and her team have made the decision to withdraw,” a USEF spokesperson said.

Marilyn, who won individual and team Pan Am Games gold in eventing, switched her focus purely to showjumping in early 2024 when La Contessa joined her stable.

“Timing is everything,” she said.

“Unfortunately, Contessa has had a minor injury which has set back our preparations for the World Championships at Aachen. With the interest of my incredible partner in mind, I have withdrawn her from competition to give her any time she needs to rest and feel her best again.

“Though disappointing for today, I look forward to getting back in the ring with her when the time is right. It is the greatest honour to be selected to represent Team USA at a major championship and I wish USA Jumping very best of luck next month.”

Natalie and Marigold Sporthorses’ 12-year-old gelding join Katie Dinan (Out Of The Blue SCF), Lillie Keenan (Fasther), Laura Kraut (Bisquetta) and McLain Ward (High Star Hero) on the team.

The US was not in the team medals at the last World Championships in 2022 but have won silver at the last two Olympic Games.

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Britain’s gold medal-winning children spearhead an ‘amazing’ medal haul at the European Championships

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:26:00 +0000

Not to be outdone by their victorious senior counterparts in the Hickstead Nations Cup on Friday (24 July), Great Britain’s children’s squad celebrated a glorious team gold in an unforgettable week at the 2026 FEI European Championships for young riders, juniors and children in Hagen, Germany (19-26 July).

Under the new format with a table C speed leg to start – mirroring that of senior championships – the heroic British quartet of Charlie Barker (Special Summer), Alexander Leggott (Blossom's Billy Heinz), Mia Breen (Crack 41) and Tabby Morgan-Evans (Catoki) kept cool under relentless pressure to seal gold with a full-house of clears in the third and final round.

Great Britain's gold medal-winning team at the Children's European Showjumping Championships in Hagen, Germany. (Image credit: Sportfotos / Stefan Lafrentz)

The team finished on a score of 5.61 penalties, ahead of the Netherlands and Germany in silver and bronze respectively.

“It’s been an amazing 10 days all round,” said chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker, who was able to watch son Robert during the first round of the King George V Gold Cup via the livestream, but missed his historic winning jump-off, just days after her husband John won the Cock O’ The North title for a record seventh time.

“We weren’t sure how the new format would work out for these championships, but it was fine and the children all rode fantastically. The courses were built extremely well but they couldn’t afford to have any fences down, so they were thrilled to win gold – they all stuck together and were a really good team.

“They were given bottles of non-alcoholic prosecco to spray on the podium, so of course they went wild with that!”

Tabby Morgan-Evans and Catoki win individual silver in the Children's European Showjumping Championships (Image credit: Sportfotos / Stefan Lafrentz)

Tabby then rocketed up the leaderboard with another double clear in Saturday’s individual final with Unex Competition Yard’s 14-year-old Catoki to claim silver behind the Netherlands’ Pedro Mansur riding Hotmail Des Forets.

“This was Tabby’s third and final year in childrens and she’s an amazing little jockey and such a lovely person,” assessed Clare.

Individual crown for Ireland at European Championships for young riders, juniors and children

Ireland’s Jack Kent was crowned junior European champion riding the 12-year-old Ollie Van De Klotputten, climbing from 14th place after his opening clear to top the podium in Sunday’s final with a succession of faultless performances.

“From start to finish it’s been kind of unbelievable really,” said Jack. “The teams didn’t end the way we wanted [finishing eighth], but I kept going on the individual score and I’m lucky that the horse jumped brilliantly all week and kept getting better and better – I’m absolutely over the moon!”

Jack Kent riding Ollie van de Klotputten win individual gold at the young rider European Showjumping Championships in Hagen, Germany (Image credit: Sportfotos / Stefan Lafrentz)

Junior team honours went to Germany, with Great Britain surging up the leaderboard from ninth to claim silver courtesy of Hollie Gerken with Joplin, Nellie Lock riding Diamantine Z, Cate Kerr with Petitfour VD Wareslage and Emily Gulliver riding Glamor De Vie, led by chef d’equipe Tracey Newman.

“After the first day, we said you just have to keep jumping clear rounds because anything can happen, and they did,” said Clare. “They’re such a young team as well.”

Gold, silver and bronze team medallists in the Junior European Showjumping Championships in Hagen, Germany (Image credit: Sportfotos / Stefan Lafrentz)

“Great team spirit"

Further fierce battles ensued for the young rider medals where Greta Leprattie became the first Italian to win the individual title, riding Mercy Van 't Ruytershof. Ireland’s Tom Wachman riding his London International grand prix winner Do It Easy and Great Britain’s Noora von Bülow – the youngest rider in the competition at just 17 – with the super Primavera joined Greta on the podium, claiming silver and bronze respectively.

Tom Wachman and Do It Easy win individual and team silver in the Young Rider European Showjumping Championships (Image credit: Sportfotos / Stefan Lafrentz)

This was Tom’s second podium finish of the week as he’d also helped Ireland secure team silver behind the Netherlands alongside team-mates Tabitha Kyle (Desterly), Ben Walsh on Zenith vd Donkhoeve Z and Coen Williams riding Dominante Z, led by chef d’equipe Denis Flannelly. Great Britain finished just off the podium in fourth.

“There’s been great team spirit all week, I’m so proud of them all,” said Clare Whitaker.

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‘He’s incredible’: Whitaker makes Hickstead history with third King George win

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 17:40:23 +0000

Robert Whitaker and Equine America Vermento have made history at Hickstead as the first combination to win the Al Shira’aa King George V Gold Cup three times for over half a century.

Not since the mighty Harry Llewellyn and Foxhunter lifted the trophy in 1948, 1950 and 1953 had the same horse and rider won this five-star grand prix three times, but the 2023 and 2025 champions were victorious again this year.

Robert and Stephen and Caroline Blatchford’s 13-year-old Argento stallion jumped the faster of only two double clears to finish ahead of Brazil’s Stephanie Maciera and Novak De Kalvarie, and Canadian Nicole Walker and Panter JVH third.

“I got a bit emotional,” Robert said. “To win this with him three times – he’s amazing. Amazing.”

Only five combinations of 49 starters had conquered Kelvin Bywater’s first-round track, of whom Robert and Vermento were the first. They gave what could have been an exhibition round in this arena they know so well, and although Robert said he thought there would be more clears, rider after rider was caught out. Faults came all over the course, although the double of ditches and the white gates caught plenty out, and seven riders retired.

Robert and Vermento were first to go in the jump-off and again showed just why they have been such a success in this class, from their big open shot to the first oxer to a cracking turn to the two remaining elements of the combination to a perfect angled gallop round the open water to the last.

(Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

Next in was Nicole and her own 11-year-old stallion. They were fast and forward from before the start line, each turn a shade tighter, and they were up on the clock until that turn by the water. The slightest of slips behind – and heartbreakingly, the last rail landed on the turf.

Stephanie and Bonne Chance Farm’s 13-year-old jumped a beautiful polished clear a shade slower than Robert, then Jack Whitaker and Candice Reilly’s brilliant Jack JL had two down. Last to go, Jessica Mendoza and Summerhouse were looking on super form but the third fence fell late, and they went on to have three more fences down.

“To win it three times is incredible,” Robert said. “He jumped so good in the first round, and in the jump-off I was obviously first to go. I know this ring is very big and open, and it’s easy to knock one down, so I just wanted to do a good, safe round, and it paid off.

“He’s jumped here since he was a young horse and knows this ring inside out, and I think that really helps. There are so many elements on this course; the double of ditches, the water, the double of gates causes problems, and when you can jump those comfortably, it makes the rest of the course easy. I can ride to those fences knowing he can do it, and that makes a huge difference.”

Robert said his jump-off round was not as fast as he might have hoped.

“But it’s a big ring and easy to have one down, and that saved us in the end,” he said. “He’s unbelievable. He’s made history.”

A victory dunking! Robert Whitaker cleared the water in the class, but went into it later (Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

Stephanie was very pleased with her first trip to the All England Jumping Course; she and Novak De Kalvarie had also jumped two four-fault rounds to help Brazil to finish just off the podium in the Nations Cup, and this was their best CSI5* grand prix result to date.

“It was my first time here, and we did a great Nations Cup,” she said. “Me and this horse are stepping up to this level; we started doing five-stars this year, and he’s getting better and better.

“I’m very pleased with him, very happy, and I really like the show and the atmosphere, and so different. I’m very happy with second place.”

Nicole and Panter are also relatively new to this level and this was again their best grand prix result, as well as their first European five-star grand prix.

“It’s incredible to be part of the Whitaker history,” said Nicole, as thanks to Donald’s 2024 win with Millfield Collette, the King George V Gold Cup has not been out of Whitaker hands since 2022. “To be third to them is amazing, I’ll take that!”

Nicole said the slight slip was unlucky, adding: “Sometimes you get lucky and sometimes you have slips but the footing here is great. My horse made an amazing effort and I’m so proud of him. I ended up doing one more stride [to the last] but I’m so happy with him and our third place. I’ve had him four years and we’ve grown together, which is really nice.”

An amazing week

Nicole paid tribute to the support she had from chef d’equipe “Captain Canada” Ian Millar, who was last at Hickstead as a rider 44 years ago, and her coach Gerry Mullins, who knows the ring inside out.

“It’s been an amazing week,” she said. “The team is so supportive of each other, it’s great to be back here after 44 years, and it’s such an iconic special venue. It really was an honour to be here, and so much fun and a great experience for all of us.”

Robert, who thanked his “fantastic” owners for all their support, joins his father John as a three-time winner of the King George V Gold Cup – but his uncle Michael is still ahead.

“Michael said he’s won it four times – so I’ll have to win it again, won’t I!” he said.

Hickstead director Edward Bunn joked that the man who engraves all the venue’s major trophies thinks it is only Whitakers who compete here.

“It was a fantastic sport,” he said. “Five clear rounds, 15 four-faulters. That’s also testament to the course-building team led by Kelvin and Ben [Townley] to produce world-class sport, and I don’t think you’ll see anything better. Thank you, and we’ll see you all again next year.”

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‘It’s like a dream’: Holly Smith’s star stallion back to his brilliant best at Hickstead

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 17:00:18 +0000

Holly Smith brought one horse, to the Royal International Horse Show, for one class, and it paid off as she and star stallion Fruselli landed the JCL Insurance Brokers 2026 Queen Elizabeth II Cup.

Fruselli had been out of action for nearly two years but won a hat-trick of four-star classes at Bolesworth early this month, and looked back to his brilliant best as he and Holly jumped clear in 35.6sec, just ahead of Ella Dalton and Ultimo N Z.

“What a privilege to be able to ride in a ring like that in a national competition in a 1.50m class,” Holly said. “Not all horses will take to it. They need to be brave, they need to be careful, they need to stay with you, they need to handle the gradients. It really does take a true superstar of a horse, they have to have everything.”

And Fruselli does. Now 16, the compact Welsh-bred stallion looks as good, if not better, than ever. Compact and agile, he was landing, turning and accelerating with effortless speed to secure the title for Holly for the first time.

“Fruselli’s got a wealth of experience, and we know each other inside out,” Holly said. “He’s well worth the drive; when the alarm goes off to bring a horse like him, you jump out of bed with a smile on your face.”

(Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

Ella had set the standard from second in the jump-off with her own big-striding scopey eight-year-old. Gemma Stevens and Envoy Merelsnest Z crossed the line in a fantastic 35.09sec but clipped the second-last to finish seventh.

“Fruselli is a very naturally quick horse, but you’ve got to get that balance of not going absolutely mad, but still not leaving the door open for anybody else,” Holly said. “I thought I’d done it but you never know!

“He’s been off for two years, and whether he was going to come back or not, we didn’t know. We dipped a toe in a few weeks ago at Bolesworth, he was exceptional there, took him easy then brought him here, and he’s gone and done it again. It’s like a dream, really. What a privilege to ride a horse with such experience.”

Ella, who won the Cindy Meade memorial trophy as the best under-25 rider, was delighted with Ultimo, whom she bought last October and has stepped up to this level this year, finishing second at the Great Yorkshire Show.

“He was amazing today,” she said. “Holly was destined to win but he was incredible. This was the first time I’ve really gone against the clock with him but he’s so naturally fast and careful – and he had the best time in there. He’s got so much stride and quality, I can just sit there and look pretty! He makes my job super-easy.”

Former Hickstead speed Derby winner Ella has also been busy eventing, competing at four-star with Chantilly Amatullah – “And I’m showing here too,” she said. “I’m doing literally everything!”

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‘To lift a trophy 51 years after your first is an achievement you can’t replicate in any other sport’, says Chris Smith

Chris Smith — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 09:35:00 +0000

Watching John Whitaker win the Cock O’ The North at the Great Yorkshire Show last week was an incredible experience. To lift a major trophy 51 years after your first victory is an achievement you simply couldn’t replicate in any other sport.

John admitted afterwards that this was the best of his seven wins and the atmosphere in the arena was special. The whole experience gave you goosebumps.

If last-man-in Richard Howley had jumped clear and snatched the win, I think the crowd would have booed him out of the ring. That’s despite how many years he’s spent living in Yorkshire! The backing you get from the home crowd is unmatched.

The Cock O’ The North is a unique class. While the Hickstead Derby is equally timeless, the Cock is accessible to most grand prix horses. That said, it usually takes a round in that massive arena for horses to settle and get their heads around the obstacles, like the double of walls and brushes.

There was a time when course-designers put real imagination into creating these enduring challenges. They carry just as much prestige today as they did half a century ago, which makes me wonder if we are capable of creating modern equivalents.

It remains one of a handful of events that hasn’t lost its value or respect and is arguably our biggest truly national class. Part of the magic is how easy the class is to follow for the public, to the point where even the security staff were buzzing about John’s win.

Despite everything he has achieved, John remains completely down to earth. I spent two hours wandering around the cattle lines with him. The Great Yorkshire is a proper county show, where you can still sit in the Jersey cattle shed and have a coffee with a group of local farmers.

The best of his seven wins: John Whitaker lifts the Cock O’ The North trophy, 51 years after first claiming the title. (Image credit: Simon Dewhurst Photography Limited)

“Only as good as the entry list”

A show is only ever as good as the riders on the entry list, and while big names still want to win at Great Yorkshire, how many of our top 20 riders do you see supporting our national championships? In Belgium or the Netherlands, team selection dictates that riders must compete at their national finals and it preserves their status.

Many of our finals have lost their gloss. The Big Star six-year-old final was fantastic when it was held at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), but now it has dwindled to the point where we sometimes see only 12 to 15 entries in a qualifier.

I talked about the talent seekers in my last column, and how difficult it was for course-designers to build a track that could cater for seven-year-olds and a broader spectrum of horses.

It’s a class that undoubtedly needs a rethink, but it’s attracted the biggest numbers of any qualifier this year. So when the discussion happens, we have to remember that changes need to benefit not only horses and riders but the show centres, who are also trying to make a living.

A framework for progression

One thing they have on the Continent that we lack is a framework for progression. Countries like France require riders to lodge a certain number of clears before they can step up. In Britain, someone jumping a 1m track today could enter a grand prix next weekend.

A tiered structure would raise standards, protect horse welfare and give riders meaningful milestones.

Without the current blanket approach, tack rules could also be tiered. Grouping a grassroots rider jumping 80cm into the exact same bracket as a professional jumping 1.30m makes zero sense.

Other countries adapt bit rules by level. In Germany, young horses must compete in a simple snaffle until they are six years old.

You only have to look at the Billy Stud to see the success of that approach; their young horses are almost always in snaffles.

It reminds me of a brilliant exchange between Tony Pavitt and Marcus Ehning in a collecting ring. Tony asked Marcus what they do in Germany if a young horse can’t go in a snaffle. Marcus just smiled and said: “We sell them to England!”

● Do you agree with Chris’s comments? How else could we improve the framework for progression? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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‘Football doesn’t need to come home – showjumping does it for them’: Britain triumphs in top home Nations Cup

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 18:22:41 +0000

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.

(Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

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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Championship stars aim to shine on home soil: meet the British team for today’s Hickstead Nations Cup

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:31:20 +0000

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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‘We’ll have to call him Mbappé!’ Harry Charles and Bandit complete fabulous hat-trick at Hickstead

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 17:59:07 +0000

Harry Charles and Bandit continued their flying recent form as they won the ClipMyHorse.TV tankard at the Royal International Horse Show.

Harry and the 11-year-old held their lead from seventh of 56 starters to triumph in this two-phase competition, which came hot on the heels of their brace of wins in Valkenswaard.

“He’s on a hat-trick; we’ll have to start calling him Mbappé!” Harry said, referring to the golden boot winner at the 2026 football World Cup.

“I’m very happy as he’d been knocking on the door but we’d have one down, from my mistake or his, but now the penny’s dropped a bit, and he’s very easy when he’s on form.”

Harry said these classes are among the hardest to win as there are only five or six fences in the jump-off phase, so there is not as much scope to take time off. But he and the Irish-bred gelding owned by father Peter and Stall Zet made every turn count, the compact, agile Bandit showing all his speed and scope.

“You have to be pretty much perfect in these classes and take the first distance everywhere, and actually my first one didn’t come up, but he’s so fast, I just tried to be smooth,” Harry said. “That’s how he’s fast; if I try to take too many strides out, it can be a bit stop-start. It’s like cruise control, I have to set it high from the start and try not to break it, just keep the pace and ride the correct lines.’

Bandit sustained an injury in late 2024 and had nearly a year out, then started jumping small classes at the end of last year.

“He’s pretty much come right back to where he left off, if not better,” Harry said. “He’s a bit of a Swiss Army knife; he doesn’t spook, he’s extremely brave and super-fast. I haven’t done a five-star grand prix with him, although I wouldn’t rule it out, but classes like this are his bread and butter. He’s on about 60% of his tank, he finds it easy and it gives him confidence. I’m very lucky to have him.”

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‘I could do with a helicopter!’ Gemma Stevens fits fabulous Hickstead showjumping win into her eventing World Championships preparation

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 17:03:29 +0000

Gemma Stevens may struggle to squeeze in any sleep as she prepares for the World Championships – but winning titles such as the Unibed high-performance equine bedding winter grades B and C final at the Royal International Horse Show must make up for it.

Gemma and nine-year-old Warrior Special triumphed from a field of 24 to win the prestigious title – the day after Gemma’s place was confirmed on the British team that will travel to Aachen with Flash Cooley.

“It’s challenging, shall we say!” said Gemma, of trying to fit everything into days that only have 24 hours each. “But it’s a really nice afternoon, the sun’s shining, all the owners are here and everyone’s happy. I’m thrilled to bits.”

Gemma was drawn halfway through the seven-strong jump-off, and first in Thomas Pritchard and Princess SW were the ones to beat, on 37.22 sec. Gemma put her foot down, and took advantage of the Warrior stallion’s huge scope and stride to finish in 36.99.

“I didn’t watch the first two go but the one before me was really fast and went third, so I thought ‘I’m really going to have to get a wriggle on!’” Gemma said.

“He’s a big horse and really careful but he has the most enormous stride, so I probably took 10 strides less than everyone else. For such a big horse, he’s got a real turn of foot.

“The owners absolutely loved winning here, it’s the best arena in the world.”

(Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

Warrior Special was bred down the road from Hickstead at Brendon Stud and he was sold aged six to Nadia Al Mutawa, who flew him to her home in Kuwait.

“He did a couple of 1.40ms as a seven-year-old but because it’s so hot there, they don’t have summer competitions,” Gemma said. “Nadia wanted him to come back and Shirley [Light, of Brendon Stud] very nicely suggested she send him to me.

“When he arrived, I thought he wasn’t really my type, but the very first time I jumped him at home, we had a partnership.

“He’s really coming into himself this year; he was second in the Chard grand prix and won at the Great Yorkshire Show; we’re thrilled with him and excited about the future. I think he’s got all the scope for the really big jumps.”

Gemma is competing in Saturday’s feature class, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup, and this is creating another challenge.

“I’m riding my World Championships horse in the advanced at Aston-le-Walls in the morning,” she said. “I’ve got a 7.30am dressage, I should be done by 9.45am, then it’s a two and a half-hour drive back here, so we’ll be hot-footing it – I could really do with a helicopter!”

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Young rider takes historic Hickstead hat-trick, just misses another by beating herself – then secures another record

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:39:45 +0000

A young rider achieved a historic Hickstead hat-trick, just missed out on a second as she beat herself and then set another record with a third pony – within a couple of hours.

Anya Dewey Clark won the Pro Ponies UK winter 128cm championship at the Royal International Horse Show with Kilcreene Snapdragon, and came second with Jim. She then won the winter 138cm title with Fredaine De Blonde.

Anya, who made history last year by winning every major 128cm title with Jim, went first in the 128cm jump-off with her superstar knowing that if they were to triumph, they would be the first combination ever to win this title three times. The 2024 and 2025 champions held their lead – the legendary 18-year-old Jim flying in his inimitable style – to finish clear on 45.99sec, a lead that held until the last combination.

This was Anya and 13-year-old “Snappy”, whose amazing ground-covering stride helped set them up to finish on 45.30. This meant Anya is the first rider to have won the winter 128cm title three times.

(Image credit: Boots and Hooves Photography)

“It felt absolutely incredible,” Anya said. “They’re both such amazing ponies and it’s such a great arena; I love it every year.”

The 128cm course was a challenge; 11 combinations were eliminated, the double causing a fair few problems, so only five went forward to the jump-off. The closest of these to Anya was Anthony Condon’s son Hector, who finished in 44.86sec with Darth Moll but just clipped the second-last vertical.

Anya said she “probably wanted to win on Jim”, but went in with the plan of replicating her first round.

“I let [Snappy] go to the last; he’s got such a big stride and knows how to cover the ground,” she said. “I’m always confident with my ponies as I know if I go in and give my best – if I give my all, they give their all. I love them both so much.”

Winter 138cm final

The next class was the 138cm final, in which Anya and “Blondie” were seventh of 11 combinations in the jump-off. They finished clear three and a half seconds ahead of second-placed Amy Capper and Playboy Van De Zoetewei, a pony who has won this title five times, and Anya became the first rider to win the 128cm and 138cm titles in the same year.

Anya and the 11-year-old mare had a pole down as a new partnership in this class in 2025 and Anya said they had been practising on grass since.

“I knew the time would be fast so I’d have to start strong and finish strong, and make all the turns,” she said. “She was absolutely amazing. She’s known as the queen of the yard at home and I just love riding her. I can’t wait for the rest of the year.”

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‘One of the sport’s greatest stories’: brand new combination spearhead Britain’s fab five heading to the showjumping World Championships

Jennifer Donald — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:52:08 +0000

The British team for the showjumping World Championships in Aachen, Germany (18-23 August) has been revealed, led by Olympic gold medallists Scott Brash, Harry Charles and Ben Maher.

This terrific trio have formed the backbone of countless teams in recent years but the Paris 2024 heroes all bring different horses to this year’s championships.

Scott Brash has an enviable string to choose from and he's picked the stunningly beautiful and uber-talented Hello Mango over his gold medal-winning partner Hello Jefferson and dual European silver medallist Hello Folie, who will act as Scott’s direct reserves. Since Scott's championship debut in 2010 on Intertoy Z, the ice-cool Scotsman has developed into a phenomenal team stalwart but he will also be bidding for a first individual gold medal.

The former Olympic champion Ben Maher travels to Aachen with Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright’s 12-year-old stallion Point Break, but with Catelly and Enjeu Du Grisien as top quality back-up.

Harry Charles’ world championship selection with brand new ride, LT Holst Freda is one of the sport’s greatest stories. Just three months ago, the world championships seemed a distant pipe dream for 26-year-old Harry after he stepped away from top-level sport to rebuild his string of horses.

Twelve-year-old mare Freda was bought just three months ago after she contested this year’s World Cup Final with New Zealand rider Julie Davey, initially for Harry’s wife Eve to ride. But Harry fell in love with the mare and at just their third show together in June, the pair helped Great Britain win the Longines League of Nations (LLN) in Rotterdam with a double clear followed by a spectacular jump-off performance. It’s not often you’ll see such a new partnership competing for a world title but Harry and Freda are clearly the perfect match.

Adrian Whiteway will make his championship debut in Aachen (Image credit: Getty Images)

Aachen will be a championship debut for 35-year-old Adrian Whiteway and his clear round machine Chacco Volo, with the pair having delivered a string of faultless performances on Nations Cup teams in recent years, just succumbing to the odd time fault along the way although those are becoming increasingly rare nowadays. The pair’s exceptional double clear in the Rome Nations Cup in May marked them as serious contenders.

It’s not often riders end up with a horse of the same name, but commentators will be able to have a lot of fun with our final combination on Great Britain’s five-man squad, Jack and Jack. Jack Whitaker first teamed up with Jack JL – the third grey on the squad – last season, but they’ve quickly come to prominence, firstly as part of the winning LLN team in St Tropez last year, with plenty more eye-catching five-star rounds now under their belts.

It’s now up to chef d’equipe Di Lampard and assistant Stanny van Paesschen to reveal which of this quintet will form the final four at the showjumping World Championships in Aachen next month.

Waiting in the wings on Great Britain’s reserve list are Joe Stockdale (Ebanking), who was part of the bronze medal-winning team at the last world championships in 2022, plus Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria) and Jessica Mendoza with Summerhouse.

British team for showjumping World Championships 2026

Scott Brash, 40, with 11-year-old mare Hello Mango (Untouchable 27 x Numero Uno)
Owners: Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham
Breeder: HPH Vaessen
Groom: David Honnet

Harry Charles, 26, with 12-year-old mare LT Holst Freda (Colman x Casall Ask)
Owners: rider and Eve Jobs
Breeder: E Mackintosh
Groom: Georgia Ellwood

Ben Maher, 43, with 12-year-old stallion Point Break (Action-Breaker x Baloubet Du Rouet)
Owners: Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright
Breeder: Nya Äppelvikens Ridskola
Groom: Gwen Bellamy

Jack Whitaker, 24, with Jack JL (Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Astrello)
Owner: Candice Reilly
Breeder: JE Lammerts-Weide
Groom: Paul Collier

Adrian Whiteway, 25, with 13-year-old stallion Chacco Volo (Chacco-Blue x Cathago)
Owner: Deborah Cox
Breeder: Gestut Lewitz
Groom: Rhi Watson

Reserves in alphabetical order

Tim Gredley, 40, with 14-year-old gelding Medoc De Toxandria (Der Senaat III x Kelvin De Sainte Hermelle)
Owners: Rachel Gredley, William Gredley and Unex Competition Yard
Breeder: Werner Dierckx)

Jessica Mendoza, 30, with 11-year-old gelding Summerhouse (Induparts Guidam Sohn x VDL Indoctro)
Owners: Pernilla Amman, Georgia Kipp, Kristi Mitchem, Melissa Skowlund and rider
Breeder: C Den Boer

Joe Stockdale, 26, with 12-year-old stallion Ebanking (Etoulon x Aranebel)
Owners: Barbara Hester and Laura Stockdale
Breeder: E Vriend

These definite entries for the British Equestrian jumping team are announced in collaboration with British Showjumping and World Class Programme principal partner Agria.

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