5 Jumping Teams to Watch at the Barcelona LLN Final
The much-anticipated Barcelona Longines League of Nations final is just around the corner, and show jumping fans are eager to see which teams will rise to the occasion.
As the thrilling conclusion to the season, this event promises to showcase the best of the best in the world of show jumping. In this article, we'll take a closer look at five teams that are poised to make a big impact in Barcelona.
Sweden: A Powerhouse Seeking Redemption
The Swedish team, led by the dynamic duo of King Edward and Henrik von Eckermann, is a force to be reckoned with. Despite a less-than-ideal finish in Paris, this team is hungry for success and determined to prove their mettle in Barcelona. With their impressive track record and undeniable talent, Sweden is a top contender for the podium.
According to our numbers, Sweden could bring forward the highest-rated team, led by Henrik von Eckermann's King Edward (809). With back-up from his Olympic teammates, Peder Fredricson on the 18-year-old Catch Me Not S (757), Rolf-Göran Bengtsson with Zuccero HV (744) and Malin Baryard-Johnsson on H&M Indiana (757).
Germany: Consistency and Skill in Spades
Germany has been a standout performer throughout the season, thanks in no small part to the incredible efforts of their female riders. Jana Wargers and Jörne Sprehe have been particularly impressive, contributing to the team's stellar clear round rate.
Last year's Nations Cup Final winners have had an incredible season where team competitions are concerned, picking up four five-star Nations Cup victories. With a perfect balance of experience and youthful energy, Germany is a team to watch closely in Barcelona.
The Netherlands: An Olympic Squad Ready for Battle
The Dutch team is bringing their A-game to Barcelona, with a lineup that features Olympic-level talent. Maikel van der Vleuten, fresh from picking up an Individual Bronze medal at the Paris Olympics on his partner Beauville Z N.O.P. (780), leads a squad that includes the formidable Harrie Smolders and Uricas vd Kattevennen (754) and the Olympic super-sub Kim Emmen with Imagine (737). They are joined by the rising stars Lars Kersten and the ten-year-old Funky Fred Marienshof Z (711), who produced one of just two double clear rounds in the tough Nations Cup of Brussels.
With such a strong roster, the Netherlands is poised to make a serious run for the top spot on the podium.
Ireland: Hungry for Victory and Ready to Shine
Ireland has had a remarkable season, consistently performing at a high level and even topping the overall Longines League of Nations standings. On eight occasions, they have graced the podium of a five-star Nations, two of those have translated into wins. However, these near-misses have left this talented team eager to prove themselves once again.
Cian O'Connor has been the busiest Irish team rider and has been a key player in the Irish success, he will likely ride his promising nine-year-old Fancy de Kergane (736). He is backed up by Daniel Coyle and his incredible Legacy (763), as well as Denis Lynch and Mark McAuley. With this team, Ireland is a squad that should never be underestimated.
USA: The Dark Horse with Plenty of Surprises
While they may not be the first team that comes to mind when discussing favorites, the USA has proven time and again that they are capable of pulling off stunning upsets. The partnership between Spencer Smith and Keeneland (721) has been a key factor in their success, with an impressive clear round rate. If they can harness their talent and ride the wave of momentum from their win in Dublin, the USA could be the dark horse that takes the win in Barcelona.
As the Barcelona Longines League of Nations final approaches, the excitement in the show jumping community is palpable. With so many talented teams vying for the top spot, predicting a winner is no easy task. Will Sweden redeem themselves after Paris? Can Germany continue their streak of consistency? Will the Netherlands' Olympic squad prove too tough to beat? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the competition in Barcelona will be fierce, and the performances will be nothing short of spectacular. Don't miss out on this thrilling conclusion to the show jumping season!
Listen to the Barcelona Longines League of Nations Preview Show on the EquiRatings Jumping Podcast.