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

Stort danskeraftryk på førstedagen i Tolbert

Podiet i Intermediaire B, hvor Anne-Mette Strandby Hansen og EVO Schubidoo blev nr. 3 - privat foto.

Torsdagen startede ud med junior team konkurrencen hvor Laura Qvist med Hafsjolds Ranger slutter som nr. 2. Parret bringer deres rutine med på banen, og selvom det er starten på sæsonen, ligner det at de er klar på opgaven.

Nyt spændende par internationalt er Victoria Bang Zindorf med den 7-årige Pilegaardens Secret Dream. Selvom Victoria allerede har høstet lidt erfaring på juniorniveaet med læremesteren Atterupgaards Final Kiss, så mangler Secret Dream jo erfaringen på de internationale baner. Alligevel får Victoria vist en flot tur igår men rigtig gode ting under vejs, og mest af alt Secret Dream der går til opgaven med power og tillid, uden at det ligner en for stor opgave for hverken hest eller rytter.

Efterfulgt af Intermediaire B klassen, hvor Anne-Mette Strandby Hansen og den 11-årige vallak EVO Schubidoo e. St. Schufro / Hotline var klar til deres internationale debut sammen. Parret leverede en teknisk god tur uden fejl, og samtidig får Anne-Mette vist at parret er godt på vej mod Grand Prix.

Anne-Mette fortæller: “Jeg var virkelig godt tilfreds med Schubidoo i går, hvor jeg havde en rigtig god tur, det var jo hans første internationale start på det her niveau. Inter B er jo et ret svært program at ride, når man tænker det er lige ved og næsten Grand Prix for ungheste, det er virkelig snørklet. Det havde været nemmere at ride Inter II og en kort GP. Planen var at komme gennem turen uden de store fejl, og det lykkedes jeg med, så det var jeg virkelig godt tilfreds med, og jeg havde en god fornemmelse i piaffe/passage turene og serierne. I dag gælder det jo Inter II, og det er helt klart et program der ligger bedre til Schubidoo (og mig), så der forsøger jeg at gå lidt mere i detaljerne, og håber på en god tur igen.”

I U25 klassen stod der igen Danmark øverst på skamlen, da Frederikke Gram Jacobsen og Ryvangs Zafina tog en fortjent sejr med personlig bedste tur. Zafina ligner klart at komme ind i sæsonen i super form. Passage og piaffe var i meget bedre kvalitet end set tidligere, og ikke mindst lignede det en motiveret Zafina i piaffe turene. Passagen er tydeligt forbedret, overgange ind i piaffe er stadig spændte og mangler mere blød flow, men alligevel magter hun nu at få det omsat til fin vinkel i piaffe med gode trin, og overgangen ud er også væsentlig forbedret. 70,098%

Lea Torabi og Jivago de Massa viste også en rigtig god tur, også med personlige bedste og slutter som nr. 3 med 68,676%.

I youngrider klassen var det også med dansk sejr og personlig bedste - placerede:

De danske pony piger var også suveræne med sejr og flere personlige bedste. Placerede:

Jagerbomb set the Mood(y) in Fort Worth

The FEI World Cup™ Finals Fort Worth 2026 Fort Worth, TX,  USA - Becky Moody (GBR) and Jagerbomb, during the dressage Grand Prix awards of the The FEI World Cup™ Finals Fort Worth 2026 North American League  Fort Worth Texas USA © FEI/Shannon Brinkman

Becky Moody made an early statement in her Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final debut. The Olympic veteran and Jagerbomb, her bronze medal-winning partner from Paris 2024, wowed the crowd Thursday night at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, topping the Grand Prix with a score of 76.761%.

Christian Simonson (USA) and Indian Rock finished second (75.413%), followed by 2024 World Cup Champions Patrik Kittel (SWE) and Touchdown (72.869%).

"He felt really good today. I had that nice balance of energy, but with relaxation as well," Moody said. "I always say, he’s not exceptional at anything, but he is just really good at everything. So he’s just a joy to ride in an arena like that, and it was an amazing crowd."

Moody bred Jagerbomb more than 12 years ago, when she paired her mare Udysee to the stallion Dante Weltino OLD. She has brought Jagerbomb along through every stage of his life, but when it came to attending the World Cup Finals, the pair encountered uncharted territory.

“I had never flown a horse before, and he had never flown before, so that was a factor in my decision making [to come here],” Moody shared. “I wanted that experience, and for him to have that experience, and I’m really glad that I did, because we definitely learned things. This is just an amazing opportunity to come to such a fantastic place, and it’s so cool to be surrounded by such a strong equine culture [in Texas] that is completely different to anything I’ve experienced before.”

Lasting Impressions

Julio Mendoza Loor (EDU) earned qualification to these Finals based via a non-league starting place based off his World Ranking, and he proved he was worthy of the opportunity. The first down centerline, he received a 72.000% for his test with the 15-year-old gelding Jewel’s Goldstrike. Ultimately finishing just off the podium, his score held until the ninth rider.

That’s when Simonson entered the ring, and the Texas crowd was behind every movement of the American rider as he executed his test with the 13-year-old stallion, Indian Rock. The second-youngest athlete in the field at just 23 years old, Simonson was full of perspective as he shared the podium with Olympic veterans Moody and Kittel.

“It feels a bit surreal to even say that I’m here at a World Cup Final, [let alone] be here with two people I really admire and have watched for so long,” he gushed. “’Rocky’ was amazing tonight. He is a horse that is just so dependable. I love him so much, and I think he and I have such a good bond together.”

Moody overtook Simonson on top of the leaderboard with just four combinations remaining. Then all eyes were on Kittel and Touchdown, who achieved World Cup glory in Riyadh (KSA) in 2024. While the pair did not execute their strongest test, with mistakes in the first piaffe, Kittel—making his 11th World Cup Finals appearance—still found himself enjoying the ride.

“Normally I don’t smile when I go around the ring, but then someone in the crowd [shouted], ‘We love you, Patrik,’ so I smiled before I even started,” he said. “It’s just so nice to see the audience so with you, because that’s what it’s all about.”

Kittel also identified joy in the winners.

“[Becky’s] horse looks really happy,” he added. “He looks in such great harmony. He has his ears to the front, the neck is beautiful, it’s beautiful in the mouth…It just looks so harmonious, and that’s what we want to see in the sport today.”

Moody still sees room for improvement ahead of Saturday’s Grand Prix Freestyle, noting small mistakes in her rein back and pirouettes. But she notes the immense reward in achieving milestones with a homebred.

“When you have bred them, it just adds that little bit of extra,” she said. “I don’t have any children, so he is my child. He’s just my pride and joy.”

By scoring above 60%, all 16 combinations in the competition qualified for Saturday's Grand Prix Freestyle, which will determine the World Cup Champion. Moody and Jagerbomb secured a late draw in the event and will be the final combination to compete. Simonson drew the 12th position, with Kittel and Touchdown slated to compete 14th on the start list. The Grand Prix Freestyle begins at 7pm CST on Saturday, 11 April 2026.

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

FULL RESULTS

13 year old Danish Warmblood silver medal mare Straight Horse Ascenzione and Helen Langehanenberg winner of CDI3 GP debut at Stadl Paura

The now 13 yr old mare by Blue Hors Zack / Don Schufro, out of Danish Warmblood Elite gold medal mare Bøgegårdens Don Romina, bred by Stutteri Straight Horse in Denmark, owner Tiffany Goldman. Ascenzione is full sister of Sezuan.

After being successful at small tour level winning Nürnberger Burg Pokal final back in 2022 and placed 6th in Louisdor Final in 2023, they were back at national level making their Grand Prix debut in January 2026 at Ankum.

HANN NEWS - Dr. Frederic Bünger elected new chairman

The newly elected chairman, Dr Frederic Bünger (left), and Carsten Leopold presented Dr Hinni Lührs-Behnke with the Hanoverian Society’s Golden Pin of Honour. Photo: Hanoverian Society

Delegates' Assembly of the Hanoverian Society

Verden. The delegates of the Hanoverian Society have elected Dr Frederic Bünger as chairman. The present chairman, Dr Hinni Lührs-Behnke, did not stand for re-election after six years in office. In addition, the decision to open the Verden Riding Horse Auctions to all warmblood breedings was approved.

Overall, the Hanoverian Society can look back on a successful year. A major highlight was the FEI WBFSH Dressage World Breeding Championships in Verden, which received widespread praise: “It was a celebration of the horse!” said Dr Hinni Lührs-Behnke. Despite declining figures in the fields of horse breeding and riding, the financial year ended with a positive result.

The new chairman of the Hanoverian Society, Dr Frederic Bünger, comes from a family in which the breeding of Hanoverian horses has played a central role for many generations. He has been active as a judge at mare and foal shows for over 20 years. “I would like to contribute my experience and passion to actively help shape the Society’s goals and further promote the quality of breeding. There are a number of changes on the horizon, in which I see positive aspects and enormous opportunities,” said the veterinarian from Harbarnsen. In recognition of his great commitment and as a token of gratitude for his work, the retired chairman, Dr Hinni Lührs-Behnke, received the Golden Pin of Honour of the Hanoverian Society.

The present Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Henning Schmidt, also did not stand for re-election. Stefan Kallaß from Midlum was newly elected to the Supervisory Board. Subsequently, the Supervisory Board appointed Hendrik Hüsker from Syke as its chairperson. Dr Michael Lühs from Wagenfeld joins the Board for loyalty to/of breeders from Helmut Bäßmann. “Horses should remain the focus of our work on the committees – no more and no less,” emphasised Dr Michael Lühs. The new chairman, Dr Frederic Bünger, had previously served on the Hanoverian committees as a member of the Dressage Breeding Committee. Nils zur Lage from Bersenbrück was elected to fill the position he vacated. The 27-year-old Pferdewirtschaftsmeister, who comes from a successful breeding family, said: “I would be delighted to be able to contribute ideas to the Society’s work on behalf of the younger generation.”

In future, horses from other warmblood populations may also be auctioned at the Hanoverian Society’s riding horse auctions. The 102 delegates approved the Board’s corresponding motion. This will intensify cooperation with a wide variety of training stables and enhance the appeal of the Verden Auctions venue with its modern facilities.

Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour rises to world number one in Dressage Rankings

FEI Press Release
Lausanne (SUI), 01 April 2026

Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour rises to world number one in Dressage Rankings

Caption: Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour and Mount St John Freestyle after winning the FEI Dressage World Cup™ 2025/2026 qualifier in Herning (DEN) ©FEI/Pernilla Hägg

Following the latest update of the FEI Dressage World Rankings – Athletes, Denmark’s Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour has been confirmed as the new world number one, taking the lead in the standings with 2,029 points. She remains the only Danish athlete ever to reach the top spot, having previously held the position for four consecutive months from February to May 2025.

Laudrup-Dufour moves up from 25th place to take the top position, reflecting a period of strong form at the highest level of international Dressage. Previously, the largest leap to reach world No. 1 was from fourth to first, achieved by Charlotte Fry in January 2023. Laudrup-Dufour has surpassed this record, rising all the way from 25th to the top spot, a rise bolstered by two victories on home soil in March 2026 in Herning, where she won the CDI5 competitions.

The scale of her progression is also reflected in the points gap: the increase required to reach number one compared to her previous ranking amounts to +695 points. For comparison, the next most significant move to the top position was achieved by Justin Verboomen, who went from third place to world number one with a gain of +120 points (September 2025).

“I am over the moon about Freestyle’s latest performances. To feel how our partnership has grown the past months has been amazing. I truly feel like unit with her now and in Frankfurt and Herning it’s been the best rides of my life. Tests that I’ll never forget, and tests that I would normally expect to have years in between for me this is clearly a sign of the fact that Free & I are becoming true soul partners and when we dance together it’s on a higher level. Feeling very thankful for the enormous support from my whole team” Laudrup-Dufour said.

Behind her, former number one Justin Verboomen (BEL) moves into second place with 1,929 points, closely followed by Germany’s Isabell Werth in third on 1,927 points. Great Britain’s Charlotte Fry takes fourth position with 1,911 points, while compatriot Becky Moody completes the Top 5 on 1,786 points.

Adding to this achievement, Laudrup-Dufour’s leading horse, Mount St John Freestyle, has risen to the top of the FEI Dressage World Rankings – Horses. In second and third place are Zonik Plus (Justin Verboomen) and Wendy de Fontaine (Isabell Werth), both previously ranked world number one among horses.

Quick links:

Full FEI Dressage World Ranking – Athletes

Full Dressage World Ranking - Horses

OLD Elite collection with a lot of fancy names (OnLive Auction 11 April)

The OLD elite collection

From H2R point of view only three highlights with no 1 as a clear top price among the young ones, together with no 5 which shows lots of elevation, quickness and of the ground movements with super interesting HOLST dam line, while no 12 both approved and showing super nice qualities with soft supple movements.

Many of the horses in the collection are horses with fancy names, but unfortunately without obvious Elite qualities from the video presentation.

Here you find the entire collection.

Holder konceptet for bruttogrupper i dressur?

VM i Aachen 2026 med blikket rettet mod OL 2028

Med dagens nyhed om de opdaterede bruttogrupper i dressur, får H2R lyst til at stille spørgsmålstegn ved konceptet.

For lige at bringe klarhed over hvordan det nuværende koncept er, gengives nedenstående fra Sportsplanen 2026.

Hest og rytter bør danne grundlaget for indplaceringen i en bruttogruppe, ikke alene en rytter

Hvis man kigger til Tyskland er konceptet for at være i de enkelte grupper kombinationen af rytter og hest/heste.

Iflg. sportplanen er der 6 kriterier som danner grundlaget for udtagelse til landsholdet, hvoraf 4 af kriterierne omhandler ekvipagen eller hesten.

Et hurtigt kig på den danske A-gruppe vidner om dygtige ryttere med top kompetancer, men umiddelbart svært at se hvordan konceptet følges, hvis man eksempelvis ikke har hesten længere, hesten ude med en skadespause eller måske babypause til rytteren. Den aktuelle A-gruppe liste iflg. H2R:

  • Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour & MSJ Freestyle

  • Nadja Aaboe Sloth & Favour Gersdorf

  • Daniel Bachmann Andersen & Flash Gordon

  • Carina Cassøe Krüth & Heiline´s Danciera

Alle 4 ekvipager med friske resultater som berettiger dem til A-gruppen, og derfor kunne man også med rette kalde gruppen “VM perspektivgruppe”.

Der står ikke angivet noget om indenfor hvilken tidsramme rytteren skal have redet minimum 71% til CDI3 stævne 3 gange, så det bliver for H2R regning at 1 år må være retvisende, selvom 6 mdr vil være mere korrekt.

Alle andre i A-gruppen, med undtagelse af Anna Zibrandtsen med et enkelt resultat over 71% (dec 2025/72,565%), har ikke vist sportslige resultater der umiddelbart berettiger til A-gruppen.

Andreas Helgstrand har alene været til en international start på Kadans (dec 2025/68,978%).

Anna Toosboy Rasch (Everian L med international debut i foråret 2025 med 2 x 67%) og Nanna Merrald (seneste med Blue Hors St Schufro) er begge ude med kommende babypause, mens Lone Bang ikke har været til start på Thranegaardens Rostov siden oktober 2024.

A-gruppen må uanset hvad, være for de ekvipager som aktive på banerne, og som har de bedste resultater, og ikke baseret på fortidens meritter.

Fremtidsperspektivgruppen

Det kan godt være Alexander Helgstrand ikke har alle resultater til A-gruppen, men sammen med Sara Hyrm, Karoline Rohmann, Cecilie Jensen og Ida Kristine Bjørn, kunne man sagtens lave en ny kategori “fremtidsperspektivgruppen”. Alle 5 ryttere har allerede hentet gode placeringer på seniorniveauet, og de bør derfor have al mulig støtte og opbakning i forhold til kunne udvikle sig optimalt til fremtiden.

Alle ekvipager er interessante - det handler om at udvikle mulige emner til fremtiden

Hvordan og hvornår kan man egentlig blive en del af træningen omkring bruttogrupperne? Den del er desværre en ren gråzone, da der stadig er talentfulde ekvipager derude, som ikke bliver inviteret med.

All eyes on Fort Worth as Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final line-up is set

Becky Moody (GBR) and Jagerbomb during the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Grand Prix Freestyle at the Longines Equita Lyon 2025 (FRA) ©FEI/Lukasz Kowalski

After another exciting FEI Dressage World Cup™ season, featuring the very best combinations in the world, the final line-up for the Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Fort Worth (USA) has been confirmed. From 8 to 12 April, Athletes will compete for the title at the impressive Dickies Arena in the Texan city.

Throughout the extended 2025–2026 FEI Dressage World Cup™ season, points were contested across four leagues. A total of 36 qualifiers were held in the Western European League, the North American League, the Pacific League and the Central European League.

Until mid-March, the battle for points remained open in the Central European League, North American League and Western European League. The final combinations secured their tickets during the last qualifiers in Motešice (SVK), Wellington (USA) and ’s-Hertogenbosch (NED). In total, 18 combinations from 15 different Nations have qualified to contest the Final in Fort Worth.

A new champion to be crowned

Defending champion Charlotte Fry (GBR) has confirmed that she will not travel to Texas with Glamourdale (owned by the Athlete and Van Olst Horses), opening the door for a new and exciting contest at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final.

Fry and Glamourdale won the Western European League qualifiers in London and Amsterdam and finished a close second in ’s-Hertogenbosch, but the pair will not be seen in action in Fort Worth.

Western European League contenders

Nine combinations from the Western European League have qualified to make the journey to Texas. Much attention will be on the FEI Dressage World Cup™ winners of 2024 in Riyadh (KSA), Patrik Kittel (SWE) and Touchdown (owned by Sommarkvarn AB).

Kittel competed in Basel (SUI) last year with Forever Young HRH, but returns to the Final with Touchdown. This season, the pair finished in the top three in Herning (DEN), Stuttgart (GER) and Gothenburg (SWE), although a win eluded them. The experienced Swede will be aiming to change that in Fort Worth.

Strong competition is guaranteed. Becky Moody (GBR) qualified from just three appearances with her homebred Jagerbomb (owned by Moody and Jo Cooper), finishing second in both Lyon and London, and a third place in Amsterdam.

Raphael Netz (GER), fourth in the league standings, competed this season with DSP Dieudonne and the more experienced Great Escape Camelot (owned by Sonja Krall and Theres Boss), with whom he placed fifth in the 2024 Final in Riyadh. Netz will travel to Texas with ‘Camelot’.

He is joined by fellow German Moritz Treffinger (GER), the youngest Athlete in this year’s Final at just 22 years of age. Treffinger also competed with two horses this season, but will ride the chestnut Fiderdance (owned by Gestüt Bonhomme GmbH & Co. KG) in Fort Worth.

The Netherlands will be represented by Thamar Zweistra, who will partner with Kingsdale (owned by Marieke Ponzo Dieu-De Pundert), having competed in the qualifiers in Mechelen and Neumünster with this horse.

Morgan Barbançon (FRA) will present the oldest horse in the field, the 20-year-old stallion Sir Donnerhall II OLD (owned by the Athlete and Marie Carmen Mestre Pons).

Also representing the Western European League are Carina Cassøe Krüth (DEN) with Heiline’s Danciera (owned by Poul Thøgersen), Bettina Kendlbacher (AUT) with Broadmoars Don Alfredo AWÖ (owned by Broadmoar KG) and Alexa Fairchild (BEL) and Fairplay (owned by the Athlete and AF Equestrian LDA).

North American League

The North American League remained competitive until the final qualifier. Over 10 events, three Final tickets were available.

The 23-year-old Christian Simonson (USA) had already secured his place well in advance with the stallion Indian Rock (owned by Zen Elite Equestrian Center). The pair have been unbeaten since April 2025, winning qualifiers in Myakka City, Ocala and Wellington, all on home soil.

Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu (CAN) secured her ticket with Jaccardo (owned by Jill Irving). After winning in Toronto (CAN), she also delivered strong performances in Florida (USA). It will be her first FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final.

At the final qualifier in Wellington (USA), Kevin Kohmann (USA) claimed the last available spot with his gelding Duenensee (owned by Diamante Farms), qualifying for his third consecutive Final.

Central European League

The Central European League spanned 13 qualifiers between May 2025 and early March 2026, with just two Final places on offer.

Sandra Sysojeva (POL) topped the standings with 80 points aboard Maxima Bella (owned by Sysojeva, Piet Lenskens and Dominika Krasko Bialek). The striking black mare became a firm crowd favourite, with the pair winning four qualifiers this season. They finished seventh in the 2025 Final in Basel.

Justina Vanagaite-Samuile (LTU) also qualified with Nabab (owned by Vanagaite-Samuile, Jurga Girniute-Bogdaniene and Ramunas Bogdanas). She previously competed in the Finals in Omaha (USA, 2023) and Riyadh (KSA, 2024).

Pacific League

The Pacific League consisted of three qualifiers in Australia: Werribee in March, Sydney in October and Werribee again in December.

Overall winner Mary Hanna (AUS) will not travel to Fort Worth with Ivanhoe, opting to skip what would have been her seventh FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, despite winning the December qualifier in Werribee.

Her absence opens the door for second-placed Serena Ireland (AUS), who will compete with Royalty R (owned by the Athlete). Ireland placed third in Werribee in March and second at the same venue in December.

Non-league and FEI Extra Starting Place

The non-league starting place has been allocated to Julio Mendoza Loor (ECU) with Jewel’s Goldstrike (owned by Mendoza Loor and Jessica Mendoza), as the highest-ranked non-league Athlete on the FEI Dressage World Ranking List.

Mendoza Loor and his eye-catching chestnut competed in qualifiers in Lerma St Vincent (MEX) in November and Wellington (USA) in February, finishing third on both occasions.

The first FEI Extra Starting Place goes to Yessin Rahmouni (MAR) with Kind of Magic. This relatively new combination only made their CDI debut in Kronenberg (NED) at the end of November 2025, progressing through Lier to The Dutch Masters in ’s-Hertogenbosch. At just their third international show and first FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier, they immediately secured qualification for the Final. It will be Rahmouni’s second FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final appearance, following his participation in Leipzig in 2022 with All At Once, the sire of his current horse Kind of Magic.

The second FEI Extra Starting Place, allocated to fill the empty slot left by Charlotte Fry as title defender, goes to Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) and Alive and Kicking (owned by the Athlete), who is also sired by All At Once after participating at CDI-W events in London (GBR) and Amsterdam (NED) this season.

The Definite Entries list for the Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final can be found here 

Four top stallions from Van Olst Horses with Lottie Fry at Zuchthof Klatte stallion show Saturday

Lottie Fry & Ilegro bronze medal winner at WCYH 2025 in Verden - photo credit: Kristine Ulsø Olsen

Busy Lottie Fry was showing four stallions from Van Olst Horses at Zuchthof Klatte Saturday.

Even when your not Premium member at Clipmyhorse, you have the possibility watch the show via the link here.

Videoclip

Ilegro ⬇️

Pjethro ⬇️

Real Dream ⬇️

Kjento ⬇️

Remember to mark you calendar Van Olst Horses Online Stallion show

Sunday April 5, 2.00 PM CET

where you will have the chance to watch the full range of stallions from Van Olst Horses.

Still a Secret 2026 SWB Stallion Performance Test Winner

Still a Secret with Linnea Cöster is named this year’s Stallion Performance Test winner in dressage. Photo: Roland Thunholm.

Part of news from SWB stallion Performance test

In dressage, Still a Secret, b. 2022, by Secret out of Bellissima – Benaggio, bred by Caterina Schulz-Beelitz and owned by Lövsta Stuteri AB, ridden by Linnea Cöster, is named the winner with a total score of 21.5. The stallion demonstrated three very good gaits, good balance and rideability, as well as promising development potential, which was appreciated by both the breeding evaluation board and the test riders Mads Hendeliowitz and Theo Hanzon.

SWB warmly congratulates the breeders, owners and presenters of this year’s winners, as well as everyone involved in the training and preparation of the stallions. We also thank all participants, officials and partners including Ridskolan Strömsholm, SWB Mälardalen, ClipMyHorse.TV, Agria and Horsepartner for contributing to another successful stallion performance test at Strömsholm.

Here you can find comments and scores for all stallions that were awarded premiums or accepted.

Source: SWB.Org

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