High Stakes in the Emirates: French Powerhouse Squad Headlines 2025 Longines League of Nations
World-class show jumping returns to the UAE as the prestigious Longines League of Nations welcomes a strong field of competitors.
The stage is set for an electrifying weekend of show jumping in Abu Dhabi, with Sweden's Rolf-Göran Bengtsson and Zuccero HV headlining an impressive roster of elite combinations. The Swedish partnership enters the competition as the highest-rated pair, boasting an impressive Elo rating of 754 that places them among the world's top 30 combinations.
French Dominance on Paper
Team France arrives in Abu Dhabi with formidable firepower, fielding three combinations ranked within the top 10 of this weekend's competitive field. The French squad's strength in depth is evident through Simon Delestre's Cayman Jolly Jumper (753), Jeanne Sadran's Dexter de Kerglenn (748), and Kevin Staut's Visconti du Telman (735), representing three of France's current top five rated horses.
Strong Form, Early in 2025
Despite being just six weeks into the new year, several combinations have already demonstrated exceptional form at the highest level.
Ireland's Denis Lynch and Vistogrand have made a remarkable start to 2025, securing three five-star podium finishes at prestigious World Cup shows in Basel and Amsterdam. Their outstanding form bodes well for Ireland's defense of their 2024 League of Nations title.
Great Britain's Tim Gredley and Imperial HBF have also hit the ground running, claiming three top-10 finishes at major competitions this year. As the highest-rated British combination in Abu Dhabi, they'll be looking to convert their early-season momentum into team success.
New Partnerships Making Their Mark
The competition will showcase several exciting new combinations making their five-star debuts. Germany's Katrin Eckermann will partner with Iron Dames Dialou Blue PS, a horse that comes with impressive credentials having built its 753 Elo rating under previous rider Kevin Staut.
Another noteworthy debut will feature Sophie Hinners aboard Iron Dames Combella, a partnership formed just a month ago following the horse's transition from Shane Sweetnam's string.
Historic Italian Debut
Adding extra intrigue to this year's competition, Italy makes its historic Longines League of Nations debut with a surprisingly strong hand. The Italian team features two combinations ranked among the top 10 in Abu Dhabi: Emanuele Camilli with the promising Odense Odeveld, a horse that has drawn attention over the past two years, and Giulia Martinengo Marquet with Delta del'Isle, who brings solid Grand Prix form from 2024 into this team competition.