Belgium once again hosts the FEI Dressage Nations Cup™

Belgian dressage continues to grow in popularity, largelydriven by the outstanding success of its riders. Following the historic victory in the 2025 FEI Dressage Nations Cup™, held on Belgian soil for the first time and won bythe Belgian team, with Justin Verboomen setting personal best after personal best through exceptionally harmonious performance with Zonik Plus, Belgium is once againeagerly looking ahead to CDIO Lier, taking place fromMay 21 to 24.

With just three weeks to go, the first big names have already confirmed their participation. Following CDIO Lier, whichfeatures the FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ as well as Nations competitions for all youth categories, the Belgian Championships will take place from May 27 to 31. For nearlyten days, Azelhof in Lier will be the stage for Belgiandressage.

Strong interest

Interest in both the CDIO and the Belgian Championships is high, with many countries applying to compete in Lier. “For many combinations, this is a crucial moment in preparation forthe World Championships. The Nations Cup adds an extra dimension, as riders are not only competing for themselves, but also for their country,” explains show director Wim Verwimp. “We once again expect a very strong field of competitors and sport at the highest level. At the same time, we are particularly pleased with our new partnership with Lotto. Their involvement allows us to further grow the event and continue facilitating the sport at this level.”

Reliving history

Last year marked a historic moment for Belgian dressage during CDIO Lier, and this year they will do everything possible to defend their title. In the first FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ of the season, Justin Verboomen already showed he is in top form. Scoring well above 90%, he once again improved his personal best. 

Would you like to witness the very best dressage has to offer? Join us at CDIO Lier from May 21 to 24.

For tickets and the full programme, visit: www.belgiumdressageevents.be

52 young horses ready for 2nd Dutch selection for WCYH

5 year old KWPN approved stallion Renzo by Kjento / Rousseau with Lottie Fry ready for 2nd selection - photo credit: Timo Martis Photography

First Dutch selected took place 21 and 23 April in Ermelo, where a total of 52 young horses were selected for 2nd selection, which takes place 26 and 27 May. For the final selection at 22 June 12 combinations will be invited.

The Dutch selection commitee are: Johan Hamminga, Alex van Silfhout and Janine van Twist.

Kjento is the stallion with most offspring among the 5 year old and 6 year old, with a total of 6 offspring.

5 year old selected

  • Dante’s Empire (v.Dante Weltino) & Moisés Jover Azuar

  • Lord Charmeur (v.Lord Europe) & Janina Tietze

  • Pepijn van het Brabantshof (v.Boet 516) & Shannon van Manen

  • Radetsky H (v.Lennox U.S.) & Cynthia Eggenkamp

  • Ratina-Ray (v.Fürst Dior) & Demy Kurstjens

  • Ready to Rumble (v.Le Formidable) & Saskia Poel

  • Real Dream (v.Dynamic Dream) & Charlotte Fry

  • Red Rock (v.Mowgli V.O.D.) & Geertje Hoogendoorn

  • Rendez-Vous (v.Kjento) & Moisés Jover Azuar

  • Renzo (v.Kjento) & Charlotte Fry

  • Rituals De La Fazenda (v.Magnum De La Fazenda) & Thalia Rockx

  • Rivivi Litchy US (v.Vivino) & Moisés Jover Azuar

  • Robijn Vda (v.Vitalis) & Cynthia Eggenkamp

  • Rockstar (v.Le Formidable) & Saskia Poel

  • Rockstar Millionaire (v.D’Avie) & Cynthia Eggenkamp

  • Roebel (v.Romanov) & Kim Noordijk

  • Roller-Coaster DH (v.Johnny Depp) & Rosa Vlaar

  • Rose-Bel Taonga (v.Kjento) & Franka Loos

  • Roseville (v.Blue Hors Monte Carlo TC) & Jesslin Vinkesteijn

  • Royal Esther Svn (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Danielle Heijkoop

  • Rubinella Dh (v.Jameson Rs2) & Isabel Lienesch

  • Rufus Van ’T Houtsche (v.Jameson Rs2) & Lotje Schoots

6 year old selected

  • Fiji (v.For Romance) & Kim Alting

  • Franzmann (v.Fürstenball) & Beatrice Arturi

  • Mattie P Fan Dulve (v.Pier 448) & Danielle Heijkoop

  • Oege van Cayenne Stables (v.Yme 507) & Zoë Kuintjes

  • Panamera (v.Vivaldi) & Astrid Langeberg

  • Paulo WM (v.Kjento) & Marieke Cobben

  • Perfect Ritme (v.Lord Europe) & Kim Noordijk

  • Pina Colada (v.Governor) & Kirsten Brouwer

  • Pitch Perfect (v.Le Formidable) & Vai Bruntink

  • Pjethro (v.Kjento) & Charlotte Fry

  • Plenza (v.Kensington) & Daria Sushchinskaya

  • Prada ND (v.Kjento) & Lieke Knook

  • Prosecco TC (v.Joop TC) & Lennart Bos

  • Puy du Fou (v.Donier) & Sophie Welmers

  • Pythagoras Wk (v.All at Once) & Franka Loos

  • Roman Empire (v.Romanov) & Bart Veeze

  • Tie Break (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Leonie Richter

7 year old selected

  • Hexagon’s Oprahmanda (v.Diamond Hit) & Tessa Kole

  • Jedokus Hof (v.Nane 492) & Bennie van Es

  • O Curro (v.Havanna II) & Marijke van Schaik

  • Oberon (v.Kensington) & Daria Sushchinskaya

  • Obredho (v.Johnson) & Brecht D’Hoore

  • Obsession Taonga (v.Vitalis) & Lara van Nek

  • Ocarl (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Thalia Rockx

  • Odi Murona (v.Blue Hors Farrell) & Tessa Kole

  • Oliviera 3 (v.Sezuan’s Donnerhall) & Marina Welbers

  • Olympia W (v.Ebony) & Vai Bruntink

  • Ortisei (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Julia Groenhart

  • O’Toto van de Wimphof (v.Glock’s Toto Jr) & Diederik van Silfhout

  • Ozstralis Cottinglee (v.Sir Donnerhall) & Kirsten Brouwer

Danish headlines in CDI4* tours in Hagen with strong step into the outdoor season

MSJ Freestyle and Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour showed top form in Hagen this weekend winning both Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special - photo: H2R

Premier of outdoor season for the Danish top riders

Three times with Danish national anthem, Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour and 17 yr old Mount St. John Freestyle for both CDI4 Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special, while Daniel Bachmann Andersen and 12 yr old Flash Gordon came 2nd i CDI4 Grand Prix won the CDI4 Grand Prix freestyle.

Cathrine is a World Class rider

Cathrine and Free were clear favourites, and they did not disappoint. Game plan at point with a “no pressure” Grand Prix, and Sunday with “go for more” Grand Prix Special performance rewarded with new Personal Best. The way Cathrine is able to support her horse without distrubing, and adjust her ride without making any visual corrections, is just second to none. The softness combined with sharpness brings the “dancing horse” picture very much alive. In addition to the top performances 17 yr old Freestyle looks top fit and super motivated.

Presumably Cathrine and Free will appear for yet another international event before Aachen later this summer.

Daniel Bachmann Andersen is ready for the team with Flash Gordon

Flash Gordon and Daniel Bachmann Andersen with both 2nd place in CDI4 Grand Prix and winner of Grand Prix freestyle - photo: H2R

Ones again Daniel Bachmann is ready with a “new” horse for the Danish team.

The 12 year old gelding Flash Gordon has for a bit more than one year been at the stables of Daniel. Hagen was just their 3rd international event together, as they made their international debut back in December last year at Vilhelmsborg. In March in Herning they showed clearly progress and left their clear “card” as a contender for the team. This week in Hagen they just showed why the Danish selectors can count on them for this years big goal WEG Aachen in August.

Daniel showed Flash Gordon in great shape. The big gelding has become much more athletic and supple, which is reflected in a nice round uphill steady frame and good contact. Technical with very good qualities and still with room for improvement. Look like a great partnership and very harmonious overall picture.

Favour Gersdorf and Nadja still improving

At the Europeans in Crozet Favour and Nadja made their team debut, and from last year till now their have improved clearly. Better suppleness for the lateral work, sharper piaffe tours and this weekend with even better trot extensions. For the Grand Prix an error occured for the one times, while they showed an error free performance in the Special. They finished 4th in Grand Prix with 72,261% and 5th in the Special with 72,128%.

They also look like a solid card for Aachen later this year.

Quel Filou and Anna Zibrandtsen showed a well balanced Grand Prix tour with good timing for piaffe tours, as Anna also told they were trying to go a bit back, where they were two years ago in training. Not asking to much but being satisfied with the quality Quel Filou offers. This plan seems to be successful, and for the Grand Prix an error just came in at the end of the two times, rest of the test was in good balance, power and shining Quel Filou. For the Special a small canter start for trot half pass left, but Anna has it quickly under control and finish the half pass in nice balance, unfortunately for two error for the one times at the diagonal. They finished both 6th in the Grand Prix and the Special with 72,52% and 71,276% and showed with their Hagen performances that they are ready for this season.

Inspiration PF and Alexander Helgstrand gaining valuable experience. For the Grand Prix error for change after extended canter and error for one times. Missing bit more overall control and balance for the canter tour. They finish as no 9 with 69,739%. Strong freestyle without technical issues finishing no 6 with 74,965%.

Atterupgaards Cooper and Sara Hyrm were also ready for the CDI4 Special tour. In the Grand Prix they showed a lot of nice qualities, but unfortunately with two small issues hind for the canter tour. Piaffe has clearly improved and becomes more regular from behind. For the Special small issues hind for both one times creeping in.

Keep up the good work both Sara and Alexander. It is important to give both young riders the oppertunity to compete at the highest senior level and gain experience - they are part of the future for Danish dressage.

Let´s see what´s next for the other Danish combinations, such as Heiline´s Danciera with Carina Cassøe Krüth which we haven´t seen since strong come back at World Cup Gothenburg in February.

Video interviews med nogle af de danske deltagere i Hagen

De danske ekvipager gjorde sig særdeles positivt bemærket i løbet af weekenden i Hagen med selvfølgelig dobbeltsejren til Cathrine og Free samt sejren i küren til Daniel og Flash som klart største præstationer.

Undervejs fangede H2R nogle af rytterne til en lille snak.

EQUILANNOO Performance Mix 20 kg. hestefoder til sportsheste

Fuldfoder müsli til heste der behøver ekstra energi gennem foderet for at kunne yde deres bedste. Indholdet består af en kombination af hurtig og langsom energi, der sikrer både hurtighed og udholdenhed.

VIDEO INTERVIEWS - Great start of Hagen 2026 with clear victories to Dante´s Pearl OLD & Charlott-Maria Schürmann in both CDI3 GP & GPS

Dante´s Pearl & Charlott-Maria Schürmann winner of CDI3 tour both GP and GPS - photo: H2R

Hagen is always something special. For most riders it´s their first outdoor for the season, and it is a really nice place to join for everyone. Hof Kasselmann is based in Hagen am Teutoburger Wald, and it is directly deep into a beautiful forest, which also often makes the Hagen weather some kind of unpredictable like April weather in general.

The sport started Wednesday with CDI3 Grand Prix where 11 yr old mare Dante´s Pearl by Dante Weltino / San Amour with Charlott-Maria Schürmann showed their qualities and potential in the big sport winning with 73,652%, like they also took the victory in GPS with impressive 75,553% (5,5% ahead of 2nd placed Valparaiso and Laura Strobel). Hagen was just Charlott-Maria and Dante´s Pearl 3rd international event together, as they did their debut back in February in Lier.

When watching at the warm-up area Spanish Santiago Damil was there helping Charlott-Maria Schürmann.

H2R caught both Charlott-Maria and Santiago for a small interviews where they tell about their teamwork.

209.000 euro top price at Westphalian spring auction

Here you find the full results - https://horse24.com/en/auctions/details/westphalian-spring-auction-2026-463

Part of Press Release

Münster: This afternoon’s Westphalian Spring Auction was a great success. Lot number 3 took advanced to the top with a hammer price of 209,000 euros. The 51 riding horses sold achieved an average price of 34,490 euros. Buyers invested an average of 9,464 euros in the 14 foals sold.

The Westphalian Spring Auction ended this evening with very satisfactory results. Over the time of approximately six and a half hours, Thomas Münch auctioned off 64 riding horses and 16 foals from a high-quality lot. With a total sales rate of 81 percent, the Westphalian Studbook achieved total turnover of 1.9 million euros. For the first time at a Westphalian riding horse auction, pre-bidding was also possible, which was very well received by international clients in the run-up to the auction. During the ten-day trial period, the lot of riding horses enjoyed great popularity. Interested parties traveled from both Germany and abroad to test ride the horses.

Head number 3 was particularly popular among the riding horses. Bentheim NRW is the 2024 Bundeschampion of three-year-old riding horse stallions. The son of Belvedere DB/Rock Forever (breeder: Jürgen de Baey, Lemgo; exhibitor: Hengststation Gut Neuenhof KG, Nideggen) descends from the Dodona line, one of the most famous Westphalian damlines. Among others, the unforgettable Olympic champions Ahlerich and Rembrandt descent from this line. Bentheim NRW, who is now a gelding, has already achieved numerous victories in riding horse competitions. Now five years old, he is ready and equipped with all the qualities needed to successfully advance to the next levels of competitions. The bay’s immense popularity was already evident during the pre-bidding. He entered today’s auction with a starting bid of 95,000 euros. Sold for 209,000 euros, he will continue his training at an international Grand Prix stable.

Headnumber 6 was sold to a great training stable in Belgium. The son of Franz Joseph Junior/Davignon I (breeder and exhibitor: Jürgen Helm, Bissendorf) had already won young horse dressage competitions at medium level. During the auction training, he was presented by his trainer, Annika Korte, and consistently demonstrated high-quality movement and exceptional willingness to perform. Fearless was sold online for a hammer price of 101,000 euros.

The first foals of the 2026 vintage made a strong impression for the upcoming season. They were auctioned off throughout the afternoon between with the riding horses. Thirteen riding horse foals and three riding pony foals had been selected for this auction by the sales team of the Westphalian Studbook. Fourteen of these were successfully sold to new owners, achieving an average price of 9,464 euros. The most sought-after young prospect here was lot number 107, Simbabwe (breeder: Carsten Rohleder, Dortmund; exhibitor: Karl Rohleder, Dortmund). This stunning daughter of the popular Warendorf state stud stallion Sir Heinrich was bred from Elea R by Escolar, a former winner of the Westfalen Wappen. Her new owners from Canada invested 15,000 euros in the filly with excellent movement quality. The same regular customers were also delighted to secure three additional foals and a riding horse that afternoon. Stallion owner Matthieu Beckmann from Wettringen was also pleased with three successful bids in the foal lot, securing offspring of his own stallions.

A WIN FOR JUSTIN VERBOOMEN IN THE GRAND PRIX FREESTYLE RÉGION ÎLE-DE-FRANCE IN A GRAND FINALE THAT LIVED UP TO ALL EXPECTATIONS

Press Release - LE PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRES – CDIO 5*-NC

Under the sun and blue skies in Fontainebleau, the Printemps des Sports Équestres rounded off its week of dressage and para-dressage competitions. And what a finale! In the Grand Prix Freestyle of the CDIO5* competition, sponsored by the Île-de-France Region, Belgium's Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus won the test with a total score of 91.855%. After breaking their personal best in the Grand Prix yesterday, they also improved on their freestyle record today and dominated their main rivals in the event. Second place went to Britain's Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale, who also delighted the crowd with their "Glamourdale Airlines" freestyle routine. They scored 88.225%. Germany's Frederic Wandres and his Olympic horse Bluetooth OLD took the third place on the podium, with 81.085%. The best French rider, Pauline Basquin, finished in seventh place with a score of 77.015%.

Find all the day's results here.

Winner Zonik Plus & Justin Verboomen - ©PSV-J.Morel

What they said:
Justin Verboomen (BEL), with Zonik Plus, winner of the Grand Prix Freestyle Région Île-de-France:
"Fontainebleau is an absolutely exceptional setting. I was really looking forward to riding with Zonik in an outdoor event because I felt that he would want to put on a show in this environment. For our return to outdoor action this week, we performed the two best routines of our career. I'm just so happy! Before the test, I always try to stay really focused on what I need to do, but at the end of the test when you leave the arena and during the prize ceremony, it's great to see all the people supporting you." 
 
Charlotte Fry (GBR), with Glamourdale, second in the Grand Prix Freestyle Région Île-de-France:
"I'm really happy! Glamourdale was incredible both today and yesterday. I had a fantastic time over these two days. We ride in the most incredible arena here, and it reminded me a lot of Paris. It was amazing. We've been coming to Fontainebleau every year since it started, because the atmosphere here is excellent and the horses are happy. We really enjoy coming back every year!" 
 
Frederic Wandres (GER), with Bluetooth OLD, third in the Grand Prix Freestyle Région Île-de-France:
"I'm very honoured to be here. I was really happy yesterday after the Grand Prix and I'm also very pleased with our freestyle test. Today, I wasn't quite in tune with the music, so that's something I'll have to improve for the next competitions, but it's a good start to the outdoor season. Monica (Theodorescu) and I had been planning to come here to Fontainebleau for a long time and I think it was a really good idea. I think we threw our hat into the ring for the team this summer."

Raphaël Saleh (FRA), President of the Ground Jury for the CDIO5*-NC at the Printemps des Sports Équestres:
"It's been a fantastic competition. Really top, top level sport! Thank you to all the riders, who showed us what great riding really is. You can see that they are capable of putting in great performances while respecting their horses, in total harmony. I'd like to take my hat off to them, because they rode really well. The setting here is just fantastic. What more can you say, the riders are delighted. Thank you to Sylvie Robert and to the Federation for helping us to organise competitions like this in France. It is extremely important for the sport. It's a great showcase." 

Jean Morel (FRA), Manager of the French Dressage Team:
"I would like to thank GL events and the French Equestrian Federation for bringing together all the competition sponsors and all the age categories. The para-dressage riders also gained more experience this weekend. Managing to bring together the whole French dressage family in a setting like this is quite exceptional. It's not something you see everywhere. As far as the French team is concerned, we saw some great performances in the CDI3* competition, and no doubt some of the horses will soon be in the French team. That was also one of our goals at this competition. Our riders are getting back to their best. Bertrand Liegard's mare was forced to take a short break after her last competition, so she's only been back for a fortnight. Pauline Basquin is becoming increasingly confident. If she hadn't missed her pirouettes and made a small mistake at the end, I think she would have been on the podium. Alexandre Ayache is improving a lot. I was talking about that with the President of the Ground Jury. We are just going to keep moving forward calmly. Alizée Roussel had a few little problems with her horse's temperament, but things have already improved between yesterday and today. This morning, the horse was better, so I think we'll continue training the horses we have. Our objective is August. We can't compete in every event, so we're just going to try and take part in the ones that are most important to us." 

ISABELL WERTH WINS THE GRAND PRIX SPECIAL PRESENTED BY SAUR

Press Release - FONTAINEBLEAU - PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRES 

This morning, the second highlight of the Printemps des Sports Équestres CDIO5* competition took place, the Grand Prix Special presented by Saur. Once again, Germany's Isabell Werth and her horse Wendy de Fontaine won over the judges and the hearts of the crowd. The couple came very close to achieving 80% and left the arena with a score of 79.893%, thanks in particular to their excellent work in the trot. In second place, Britain's Carl Hester, riding Fame, also left the arena in Fontainebleau with a big smile on his face and a score of 77.319%. His compatriot Fiona Bigwood was third in this test, thanks to a fine performance and a score of 72.276% with Bella Donna.
As regards the French riders, Alizée Roussel and Bel Amour (12th - 66.511%) and Alexandre Ayache and Ruling Olivia (8th - 68.830%) had been entered into the event by the Team Manager Jean Morel. These two pairings are still not very experienced at this level, but keep improving and seem to be gaining in confidence. They will leave the Printemps des Sports Équestres on a positive note and with more experience in the bank.

Danish Warmblood mare Wendy de Fontaine & Isabell Werth winner of CDIO5 Grand Prix Special - ©PSV-J.Morel

What they said:
Isabell Werth (GER), with Wendy de Fontaine, winner of the Grand Prix Special presented by Saur: "I'm really happy with my mare this weekend, even though we still need to do a bit of work on the Special test. The competition was exceptional: a mini-Paris 2024! I came to Fontainebleau two years ago and it was already amazing at the time. But the competition has really gone from strength to strength! I say this with a smile, but we're really looking forward to a World Championship stage being held here!" 

Carl Hester (GBR), with Fame, second in the Grand Prix Special presented by Saur: 
"Today, I really felt my horse was with me. And we undoubtedly performed one of our best Grand Prix Special tests ever! The horse was relaxed, easy to ride and in good spirits. Since this was the first outdoor competition of the season, I feel the two days went very well. The competition is amazing, the organisation is perfect and the site is magnificent. Next year, you can count on me to be singing the praises of the Printemps des Sports Équestres! It's probably one of the best competitions I've ever taken part in." 

Fiona Bigwood (GBR), with Bella Donna, third in the Grand Prix Special presented by Saur:  "I am delighted with my horse's work, particularly as this was only her third Grand Prix Special. She was born in my stables and its an amazing feeling to see all the work we have accomplished together. She's very dear to me; she always gives me everything she can. The Printemps des Sports Équestres is just incredible, one of the best competitions in the world, so I hope to be back next year." 
 
Alexandre Ayache (FRA), with Ruling Olivia, eighth in the Grand Prix Special presented by Saur:  "Yesterday, my mare got a bit nervous when she entered the arena.  Today, we were not quite there either, and it wasn't the right time to sort out that kind of detail. And there are still quite a few other things to sort out.  We're still a long way from having a perfect partnership and we're still a long way from achieving the results we want. Over the last two days, we didn't manage to complete a test without making a mistake. Even so, we scored almost 69% on both days, despite the mistakes, so that gives us reason to believe we can get some good scores. We're working hard and I think we're going to start doing more and more competitions. I didn't want to do too many this year, but I think I'm going to have to do a few."

Find all the results here

Shining Star Sony - Verden Auction Spring Edition OnLive

Press Release

Verden. The spring edition of the Verden Auction featured a first-class

collection of 48 dressage and show jumping horses. The shining star of the

varied selection was Sony, who found a new owner for 80,000 euros. On

average, 19,750 euros had to be spent on the top-class talents at the OnLive Auction.

Following an exciting bidding war, auctioneer Bernd Hickert knocked down the lot for the Secret/Quaterback son Sony (bred and presented : Hof Brüning GbR, Bruchhausen-Vilsen) for 80,000 euros. A dressage rider from Lower Saxony can now call the striking chestnut gelding from the dam line of Loranda her own and, with the support of her parents, help him shine.

The second-highest price in the statistics was 72,000 euros. Enrico Caruso by Emilio Sanchez/Londonderry (breeder and exhibitor: Gerd Lühr, Borgholzhausen) was purchased by a buyer from Switzerland. The picture-perfect dark bay, who traces back to the foundation mare Arma, is the 80th Verden auction horse from Ursula and Gerd Lühr. His full sister was already sold at the Elite Foal Auction in Verden in 2021.

Photo: Sony by Secret/Quaterback (Photo: Hanoverian Society)

AGAINST THE BACKDROP OF THE CDIO 5* - A LOOK BACK AT THE DAY'S OTHER COMPETITIONS

Press release - FONTAINEBLEAU - PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRES 

First place for Evelyn Eger in the Grand Prix Spécial Devoucoux of the CDI3* competition.
At the start of the day, Germany's Evelyn Eger won the Grand Prix Spécial of the CDI3* event sponsored by Devoucoux. Riding Global Power OLD, she performed the only routine to score over 70% in this class, achieving 70.340%. "I am so lucky to have such a great horse, I am absolutely thrilled. Especially as this was the first time we have competed in a CDI3* event together, and only his second Grand Prix and first Grand Prix Spécial class. So, I'm more than happy, in fact. When we get home, he'll be taking a few days off, with plenty of paddock time. Then, we'll get back to training and look for another competition to keep him sharp. I really enjoyed the Printemps des Sports Équestres here in Fontainebleau. I wasn't expecting such an amazing competition! So, I hope I'll be able to come back! I particularly liked the arena, it was like a mini Paris 2024 and it was a real honour to compete here," said the German ride as she left the arena.

Global Power OLD & Evelyn Eger winner of CDI3 GPS - ©PSV-J.Morel

In the Grand Prix Freestyle of the CDI3* competition, victory went to the Netherlands
This evening, Dominique Filion posted the best performance in the Grand Prix Freestyle of the CDI3*competition, sponsored by the Communauté d'Agglomération du Pays de Fontainebleau, thanks to an excellent routine with Kha Diva Corieta Texel and a score of 73.945%. "Just being here is an incredible opportunity, so winning here is the icing on the cake! Today, we presented the first freestyle routine created especially for Kha Diva. To be honest, I wasn't really expecting to win. I've never been to Fontainebleau before and it's incredible. Everyone is so positive, happy and kind. We feel really supported by everyone, the staff, the public and the riders. It's really cool!" said the delighted Dutch rider after the prize-giving ceremony.

Germany on top in clash of titans at Fontainebleau

In what could have passed for a championship lineup, the FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ of Fontainebleau (FRA) came down to the wire Saturday at Le Grand Parquet. Deciding the result in the final ride, eight-time Olympic gold medalist Isabell Werth (GER) clinched a victory for Germany, which secured its second straight podium to take a decisive hold of the series standings.

Lead by Chef d'Equipe Monica Theodorescu, Germany’s four-rider squad of Benjamin Werndl (Quick Decision Frh), Svenja Kämper-Meyer (Amanyara M Frh), Frederic Wandres (Bluetooth OLD), and Werth (Wendy de Fontaine) finished on a winning total score of 230.065 in the CDIO5* Grand Prix test. Great Britain finished second (228.630), followed by Belgium (224.761).

“We had two combinations from [the 2024 Paris Olympics] and also some younger up-and-coming horses and riders,” Theodorescu said. “The big goal [this year] is [the World Championships at] Aachen. This was a very, very good competition on a very high level.”

The lead changed hands among the top three nations repeatedly throughout the competition, putting all the pressure on the anchor combinations. Justin Verboomen (BEL) and Zonik Plus were the first to answer the call, and they executed an outstanding test, earning a personal best score of 83.500% from the judges. That mark would ultimately be the best individual score of the competition, with Verboomen and the immensely talented 10-year-old stallion receiving marks as high as 10 for their flawless canter pirouette.

“Zonik was absolutely fantastic. I haven't quite grasped the progress yet,” Verboomen said. “I'm not quite able to do everything I truly want to do yet, but he showed tremendous progress today. In my dream, the horse is even more independent in the arena, with a sense of ease.”

Charlotte Fry (GBR) and Glamourdale—twice bronze medalists at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games—could not quite catch the leading pair, but a strong finish to their test, particularly in the piaffe, brought up their marks to an 80.848% score. That put Great Britain into the lead, requiring Werth and Wendy de Fontaine to score 79.152% or better.

The pair did not execute their strongest test, with some miscommunication in a transition from canter to passage, but fantastic pirouettes and an overall strong performance was enough to get the job done for their teammates. The final score was 80.587%.

“To be honest, my plan was to come to Fontainebleau to have a nice training start to the outdoor season. Then I saw the [start] list and I said, ‘Wow, this is not a good idea!’” Werth exclaimed. “It was a super field; it couldn’t be better…I think the whole team did really well. I’m pretty happy with Wendy for her first outdoor start [of the year].”

The German team was the only group to have each of its riders score above 70 percent, and all five athletes finished among the top 10 individual scores. Frederic Wandres (GER)—who anchored Germany in the series’ opening leg at Wellington (USA), where the team finished second—put up a score of 76.826% with his Olympic gold medal-winning partner, Bluetooth OLD.

Werndl and Kämper-Meyer, meanwhile, delivered with less experienced horses. Aboard the 10-year-old Quick Decision Frh for the gelding’s first team start, Werndl was reminded of Paris, where his sister Jessica von Bredow-Werndl (GER) rode to Olympic gold alongside Werth and Wandres.

“I was very pleased [with my horse] and thankful to be on the team. It was the same team setup my sister had [in Paris] with Isabell and Frederic, so I had goosebumps," he said. "I’m very, very happy and pleased.”

While Kämper-Meyer’s score was ultimately the drop score, the amateur rider finished less than three-tenths of a point behind Werndl. She bred Amanyara M Frh herself.

“It was amazing riding on this team today, in this arena,” she said. “The mare is amazing. The longer she goes in the arena now, the better she gets. We really had a great time today.”

Germany earned 15 points for the victory, giving them a decisive series lead with 23 total points. Great Britain now sits second with 13 points, followed by Belgium (11 points).

The FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ continues at Lier (BEL) on 23 May.

FULL RESULTS

CDI3* GRAND PRIX CHEVAL TV A PIECE OF CAKE FOR JOSÉ ANTONIO GARCIA MENA!

Press Release - FONTAINEBLEAU - PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRES

Friday morning saw the start of the CDI3* competition in the Carrière des Princes arena at the Printemps des Sports Équestres. The Spanish rider José Antonio Garcia Mena won the Grand Prix Cheval TV with a score of 69.304%, on his bay mare Quatre-quarts à l'Orange.
"It's so exciting for me to be here, in this superb setting at Fontainebleau! It's the first time we have competed together outside Spain, so I'm delighted with the great result. My mare is still young but she keeps showing she has a lot of talent and that's really encouraging. Tomorrow, we will be taking part in the Grand Prix Spécial and I hope we will have as much success!" said the smiling rider as he left the arena.

CDI3 GP winner José Antonio Garcia Mena & Quatre-Quarts a l’Orange - photo:©PSV-J.Morel

Second and third place on the podium went to the German rider Evelyn Eger with Global Power OLD (69.210%) and Pierre Volla and Malcom X de Massa (69.195%), the top-ranked French pairing. "I didn't have the chance to ride at the Olympic Games in the gardens of Versailles, so I'm really happy to be here in this almost identical setting! Malcom has shown that he has some great attributes. He's a very rounded horse, but he still needs to get a bit stronger. He felt at home in the arena this morning, so I'm really pleased and I'd like to thank the organisers for providing us with such a beautiful setting." said the French rider.

Earlier in the day, Belgium's Larissa Pauluis and her seven-year-old gelding scored 75.529% to finish first in the Prix Toubin & Clément, which is reserved for that age-group of horses. In the class reserved for five-year-olds, sponsored by the Grand Parquet, the French pairing of Le Noir 51 and Justine Ludot (85.800%) dominated proceedings yet again. In the Junior category, Denmark's Sofia Rosenkilde and Tiger G were the only couple to exceed the symbolic barrier of 70% to win the opening class of the day, the Prix de la Ville de Fontainebleau, with a score of 70,808%.

The first horses took to the arena today, and the "God save the King" has already rung out!

PRESS RELEASE

FONTAINEBLEAU - PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRE

The time has finally arrived! Today, the first horses took to the arena of the Grand Parquet de Fontainebleau to start the fifth Printemps des Sports Équestres in fine style.

Britain's Charlotte Fry and her horse Ilegro won the CDI1* Prix St Georges sponsored by Les Jardins de Gally.Currently ranked fourth in the world, the British rider, who is also entered in the CDIO5*-NC with Glamourdale, made an ideal start to this week's competition. "This is only the second time Ilegro has taken part in an international competition, so everything is quite new for him. It's important for me to get him used to big, beautiful arenas like the one here at the Printemps des Sports Équestres. And he was absolutely fantastic today. He was a little intimidated by the environment at the start of our routine, but he gradually regained his usual confidence. I really think he will be my big star in the future!" said the rider, who is a regular at the event here in Fontainebleau, which she really enjoys. "I'm really excited to be here, and I can't wait to get out into the arena with Glamourdale for the FEI Nations Cup on Saturday!" 

Winner Ilegro & Lottie Fry - ©PSV-J.Morel

The day's other two classes were reserved for five- and six-year-old horses. In the Prix du Grand Parquet, the French rider Justine Ludot and her impressive Le Noir 51 performed a really great routine, with a score of 83%.  Although only five years old, the stallion showed great concentration and agility for his first outing in a top-level competition.
In the six-year-old category, the young gelding Paulo and the Dutch rider Marieke Cobben won the Prix De Sutter Naturally.

Watch the full Van Olst Horses stallion show at YouTube (English commentator)

1,5 hour stallion show from Van Olst Horses. A great mix of stallions presented under saddle, young offspring’s and foals. All horses commented by Gertjan van Olst, in details about of course the stallions themselves including results, but also about the dam lines and family successes.

All stallions are clearly marked whether they are available with fresh semen EU, national only for NED or frozen semen.

Here you have the possibility to watch the full show: (with English commentator) https://youtu.be/1IgJ0SjoPyc?is=NXfe8cVQztXuZ3qK

Moody and Jagerbomb ‘Come Together’ for World Cup title

For Becky Moody, the Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Finals in Fort Worth, Texas (USA) gave her a week of "firsts." She competed in her first North American competition. Her horse Jagerbomb took his first transcontinental flight. And in her World Cup Finals debut, first was where she ultimately finished.

After topping the Grand Prix Thursday, Moody and her homebred partner positively brought down the house Saturday night at Dickies Arena in the Grand Prix Freestyle, scoring a personal best 88.330% to convincingly earn the World Cup title. Christian Simonson (USA) and Indian Rock finished second on a score of 83.810%, followed by Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and Maxima Bella (80.770%).

“I’ve never ridden in an arena like that,” Moody said. “It’s just insane to be part of such a cool competition. The crowd here was absolutely something else. To be sat here with these [riders] is just fantastic. I think all of our horses are complete and utter diamonds.”

To describe the crowd as exuberant would have been an understatement. In true Texas fashion, the fans ‘hooted and hollered’ with every bold line of extended trot and recognizable piece of music showcase in the choreography. At the end of the tests, those in their seats were repeatedly brought to their feet, as they gave deserving pairs standing ovations. Several horses reacted to the noise, but the riders encouraged the enthusiasm, motioning to the crowd and pointing down to give credit to their horses. The mood was celebratory from start to finish, though tears were certainly shed when Morgan Barbancon (FRA) shared after her test that it would be her final competitive ride with the wonderful 20-year-old Sir Donnerhall II OLD, who will be retiring from sport.

“At the end of my test, looking up and seeing this wall of people standing up, applauding ‘Rocky’ and me was super special,” Simonson said. “It’s something I’ll never forget. And he’s such a special horse. He deserves every amount of praise.”

A hero’s journey

After 22-year-old Raphael Netz (GER) held the lead for much of the competition, the final five riders shook up the leaderboard. Simonson opened things up with his own personal best with Indian Rock. The pair impressed in their pirouettes and half passes while riding to a compilation of American classics, including Eye of the Tiger and the Rocky Theme Song—a nod to the horse’s nickname.

“We wanted to show the hero’s journey in the choreography,” Simonson said. “And we just really wanted to show how powerful ‘Rocky’ is, of course. It’s based on the [music from the] Rockymovies and the story as well.”

The pair’s score held over a strong performance from 2024 World Cup Champions, Patrik Kittel (SWE) and Touchdown, who scored 80.260% to ultimately finish just off the podium. Sysojeva then slotted into third ahead of the final pair.

Sysojeva’s partner Maxima Bella impressed as they performed to a slightly altered version of their Paris 2024 choreography, incorporating Beyonce’s Texas Hold ‘Em into their music.

“I’m really proud of [my horse],” Sysojeva said. “She’s still young and really getting a lot of experience at shows like this. And I’m proud to be here…It’s my first time in the U.S., and I’m excited about this show.”

Degree of difficulty

When Moody and Jagerbomb entered the arena as the last combination to compete, the pressure was on. They rose to the challenge with a Beatles-inspired Freestyle that featured iconic tracks like All You Need is Love, With a Little Help From My Friends, Here Comes the Sun, Love Me Do, I Want to Hold Your Hand, Twist and Shout and Come Together.

The extensiveness of the musical compilation matched the complexity of the choreography. Moody and Jagerbomb excelled through their pirouettes as well as a challenging series of transitions and tempi changes on a circle. The judges rewarded them across the board, with the judge at H awarding a 90.235%.

“Today, right from the get-go, [Jagerbomb] was just so focused and so with me,” Moody said. “The beauty of the Freestyle is that you are able to showcase your horse’s strengths, and he finds the changes on the curved lines very easy, and because he is good in the balance, he can go from one [movement] to another without a struggle.”

Moody planned to celebrate the milestone appropriately.

“I will be going to find a drink later, definitely,” she said. “I think maybe a Jägerbomb!”

To access flash quotes from the Mixed Zone, click here. This link is updated during each competition.

Visit the Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final online pressroom here.

FULL RESULTS

Oldenburg Saddle Licensing: Family Pride in Vechta

Part of press release

True to the saying “Like father, like son,” Besandro Gold, born in 2023, by Best of Gold out of the Elite and State Premium mare Edwina by Sandro Hit, was declared the shining champion stallion today at the Oldenburg Horse Center in Vechta. Breeder and owner: Heinz Ahlers, Hatten, the extremely promising son of the former saddle licensing winner Best of Gold, who is now himself successful at the S*** level, was crowned the shining champion stallion of the 15th Oldenburg Saddle Licensing.

Besandro Gold, who possesses the ideal stallion conformation, impressed not only with his light-footedness: “He was always perfectly in rhythm at a trot, which continued into the canter,” praised breeding director Peer Eitenmüller. Guest rider Janina Tietze also confirmed afterward that the charming dark bay stallion is a horse that is very refined to ride.

His full brother Bugatti Gold OLD is licensed and has already stood on the podium in S* dressage competitions, while his half-brother Bertolli Gold by Bretton Woods is also impressing in advanced dressage tests. Both of his full sisters were awarded the Oldenburg Main Premium, with Edwina Gold OLD celebrated as the reserve champion mare at the 2024 Elite Mare Show in Rastede. His grandmother, the Elite and Verband Premium mare Elisa, gave birth to the Grand Prix-successful Bellini Gold by Belissimo M as well as two licensed sons, including Special Gold by Sandro Hit, who impressed as a four- and six-year-old in the finals of the Bundeschampionat in Warendorf. With Besandro Gold, another promising prospect from the traditional Oldenburg mare line of the Edoste family is stepping into the spotlight.

Davosino, born in 2023, by Dynamic Dream out of the State Premium Mare Fiscarya by El.H. Fürstenball, bred by Erwin Schäfer, Wittmund, and owned by Andreas Kaiser, Markkleeberg, was named Reserve Champion at the 15th Oldenburg Saddle Inspection. His dam, Fiscarya OLD, paraded in the Brillantring at the Elite Show in Rastede in 2014 and became Reserve State Champion in Rastede at the age of five. His granddam, His Harmonie, also gave birth to Fürstin Harmonie by Fürst Romancier and Fürstenfee by El.H. Fürstenball, both of whom were successful in medium-level dressage competitions. Furthermore, the dam line has produced Rive Gauche by Rubinstein I, successful at IntermediaireI level, as well as the full siblings Charlie Brown and Casanova N by Castro, who are successful in S-level dressage, and Dark Carlotta by Don Frederico.

The handsome black stallion Dahlmann, born in 2022, by Debutant PS out of Salomé d’Amour by San Amour I, bred by Daniela Graé, Senden, and owned by Plan Zeya SLU, Spain, was awarded the 1c premium. His sire, Debutant PS, is successful in S-level dressage competitions, while his granddam already produced a horse placed in M-level dressage with San Felice by San Amour I. The extended dam line also impresses with its performance potential. The great-granddam produced three S-level dressage horses: Rospoli by Rotspon, Dimitros G by Don Index, and Fleur d’amour by Finnigan. Furthermore, this line has produced licensed and Grand Prix-successful stallions such as Fürst Khevenhüller by Florestan I and Don Corleone by Donnerhall. This track record is complemented by Bohemian by Bon Coeur, a 2021 World Championship finalist in the young dressage horse category, as well as Founder FH by El.H. Foundation, who has been successful in advanced dressage classes.


FONTAINEBLEAU - LE PRINTEMPS DES SPORTS ÉQUESTRES - CDIO5*-NC THE WORLD’S BEST DRESSAGE RIDERS PUT TO THE TEST

All the ingredients for incredible sport will be brought together: established stars, challengers lying in wait and a clash of the titans. The world dressage hierarchy could well be shaken up at the CDIO5*-NC in Fontainebleau, from 16th to 19th April, which will play host to the first Dressage Nations Cup organised at Le Printemps des Sports Équestres. It is one of only two CDIO5*-NC events in the world, alongside Falsterbo.

The Carrière des Princes will be the stage for a final rehearsal, with just a few months to go before the FEI World Dressage Championships in Aachen. Here the world’s best combinations will be able to iron out the final details, stay focused under pressure and weigh each other up. And the stakes are high, both for individuals and teams, in a competition where every test matters. 30 athletes, representing 9 nations, will go into the ring for this top-level competition, of which the team results in Saturday’s Grand Prix, will determine the standings in the Nations Cup.

Belgium is aiming for victory

Justin Verboomen is one of the leading names at the Fontainebleau event. After a breakthrough 2025 season that took him and his remarkable Zonik Plus to the top of the world rankings, the current FEI World No.2 is coming to Fontainebleau determined to prove he belongs among the best dressage riders in the world.

In just a few months, he has become the driving force behind the Belgian team which is on the rise, notching up performances and confirming its status as one of the leading dressage nations. Alongside him will be Larissa Pauluis (World No.8) and her trusted Flambeau, boasting consistent and sound performances, as well as Wim Verwimp and Charlotte Defalque, who form a tight-knit, impressive lineup.

All eyes will be on the Belgian squad which is no longer an outsider. It is a serious contender and could well shake things up in the world dressage hierarchy.

Their intentions are clear: to prove that this breakthrough is more than a passing phase, and a sign of lasting change among dressage’s top names.

Germany will be put to the test

With Belgium emerging as a serious threat, Germany has no intention of watching from the sidelines. Its riders are here to remind everyone why the country remains a benchmark in world dressage. When the current World No.3, Isabell Werth, enters the arena, she embodies a style of riding characterised by absolute precision, where nothing is left to chance, and every movement is precise, polished and confidently executed.

She is part of a strong team with Frederic Wandres (World No.20), Benjamin Werndl and Svenja Kämper-Meyer. With just a few months to go before the World Championships on home turf, the German riders are entering a decisive phase, determined to keep their closest challengers, who are rapidly closing in, at bay.

Great Britain is focusing on success

But the German riders are not the only ones keen to stay at the top. Great Britain will also be looking to play a major role in this competition. With Charlotte Fry, the current World No.4, and her spectacular Glamourdale, the British team boasts a combination capable of making a lasting impression on spectators and judges alike, through both its power and expression.

Alongside Carl Hester, one of the sport’s leading names, and Fiona Bigwood and Lewis Carrier make up a balanced, experienced team capable of rising to the occasion at key moments. A team capable of turning potential into points and making a difference in the team standings right up until the last minute.

Three horses, three distinctive styles

And while the showdown between Justin Verboomen, Isabell Werth and Charlotte Fry, respectively World No.2, 3 and 4, already promises to be decisive, their horses will also have a crucial role to play.

Zonik Plus embodies dressage at its finest, combining lightness, expressive movement and an impression of complete ease.

Wendy de Fontaine sets a different standard: one of absolute precision, rigour and flawless balance, where every detail counts.

Glamourdale, meanwhile, immediately catches the eye, with his power, scope, and appeal - a captivating horse that commands attention. Three horses, three styles, and three visions of modern dressage.

France is committed to rising to the occasion

But riders from other nations are also determined to have their say, such as France, competing before a home audience. Pauline Basquin, with her loyal Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE, is returning to a ring she knows well, cheered on by the spectators in Fontainebleau. The rider from the Cadre Noir in Saumur (World No.31) will be one of the pillars of the French team alongside Alexandre Ayache, Bertrand Liégard and Alizée Roussel.

The French riders will have an ideal opportunity to make their mark in familiar surroundings. They will aim to raise their game to join the fray and shake up the established order, in front of their home crowd, at a venue they know well.

Portugal is shaking things up

What if riders from Southern Europe took everyone by surprise? Portugal is determined to feature prominently in this competition. The Portuguese team with João Pedro Moreira (World No.23), Maria Caetano (World No.25) and Vasco Mira Godinho (World No.38), boasts three riders in the World Top 40. Their solid performances are rare at this level, making them a particularly strong line-up. Its riders are united, progressing together, and showing the kind of consistency that allows them to make an impact in every test performed. In a format where every point counts, the Portuguese team’s consistency could well make the difference, allowing it to rock the boat, and challenge the competition favourites.

Spain will also be a force to be reckoned with, led in particular by José Antonio Garcia Mena, who is progressing well, in a team that is beginning to take shape. As for the Dutch riders, they stay under the radar, but consistently deliver when it matters. At major events, they know how to take advantage of even the smallest opportunity, and should not be underestimated.

Le Printemps des Sports Équestres promises thrilling sporting performances right from the first week focusing specifically on dressage. In this CDIO5*-NC, one of the season’s highlights, the best nations and the most incredible combinations currently will represent their countries at the highest level in the world. A rare, unmissable event, blending precision, power and elegance. These exceptional riders will be counting on the enthusiastic support of spectators. In keeping with its philosophy, the organising committee is once again providing free admission to everyone for all the competitions at Le Printemps des Sports Équestres. An invitation for all of them to experience the excellence of world dressage up close.

Week of Dressage - from 16th to 19th April 2026

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