The FEI Nations Cup concluded its fourth race on June 23 in Rotterdam, with seven teams advancing to the finals in October.
With Rotterdam the last qualifiers for the Final, the teams heading to Spain are now confirmed. Ireland, Sweden, Switzerland, Germany, Brazil, France, Netherlands and USA will compete at the iconic Real Club de Polo de Barcelona.
Great Britain and Belgium will not go through to the final despite strong performances.
The FEI Nations Cup is recognized as one of the most prestigious and historic team show jumping series in the world and with the Paris 2024 Olympics just around the corner, it offers a preview of the teams and riders to watch.
The final belonged entirely to France as they swept the competition in Rotterdam with a near-perfect score. A strong statement from the host country of Olympiakos.
French anchor rider Julien Epaillard in Donatello d’Auge secured victory for the French team, finishing in 70.88 seconds with a penalty-free lap.
But that wasn’t all for the French team, as she also won gold at the FEI Nations Cup race in Strzegom, Poland, leading her country from 5th to 1st in the standings.
Sweden, led by Henrik Ankarcrona and Tokyo 2020 individual silver Pender Fredrickson, overtook Great Britain for second place. Both teams ended the day with four points, but Sweden’s fastest combined time secured their place.
Despite tough competition in Rotterdam, Team USA’s efforts throughout the season have earned them a spot in the finals in Barcelona, where they will have another chance to finish on the podium.
Team USA saw remarkable performances, including clear rounds from Callie Schott to Garant and the Tokyo 2020 team silver medal Jessica Springsteen in Don Juan van de Donkhoeve. Former US Olympians Laura Kraut and anchor McLain Ward he had four errors.
The world’s best jumpers will meet again in a month, with their Olympic saddles at the historic Château de Versailles from 29 July.