Europeans shine at FEI World Cup Finals!
11. Apr 2022 / Category: News
Over the last week, the best in the world were competing in Leipzig, Germany, as part of the FEI World Cup Finals. Jumping, Dressage, Driving and Vaulting combinations were all in action with European combinations winning in all the finals despite tough competition from around the world!
The first champions to be crowned were the vaulting competitors. Manon Moutinho (FRA) took top honours in the women’s individual whilst Lorenzo Lupacchini (ITA) took the men’s honours. In the Pas de Deux, Germany took the title with Janika Derks and Johannes Kay in their last ever competition having already announced their intention to retire.
Attention then turned to dressage where there was particular attention on Isabell Werth (GER) who was competing her top mare Weihegold for the very last time. It was however Isabell’s compatriot Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and the formidable TSF Dalera BB, reining European and Olympic champions, that took the title. Leading the first-round grand prix, the combination put on an exceptional performance in the freestyle scoring 90.836 % to take the World Cup crown. This was confirmed to be Jessica’s last major competition as she prepares to welcome her 2nd child later in the summer and proved to be an emotional win as she commented; “I can’t describe it in words. It was so emotional when I finished the test…This mare is just incredible. When I enter the arena, I know she will give her very best. Always. She leaves her heart in there.”
The conclusion of the driving was found to be one of the most thrilling moments of the week. 8-time World Cup Champion Boyd Exell (AUS) looked in precarious form throughout the rounds but could not hold of Bram Chardon (NED) who took the title with Glenn Geerts (BEL) completing the podium.
The final event of the week saw the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup champion crowned. Heading into the final round it was American McLain Ward who led the competition, but costly penalties saw him fall to 8th. Meanwhile the ever-consistent Martin Fuchs held his nerve to deliver two clear rounds on Sunday and seal the competition, having skilfully negotiated a two-horse strategy across the week with The Sinner and Chaplin. Harrie Smolders (NED) claimed 2nd with Jens Fredricson (SWE) taking a popular 3rd place. An additional note for the British duo Harry Charles and Jack Whitaker who took 4th and 5th respectfully who at just 22 and 20 respectively have shown the next generation of talent are already able to compete with the best in the sport.