Riders to Watch in 2025: The Ones Set to Shape the Season
Who are the riders set to define the 2025 eventing season? With the first events already underway and major championships like the Agria Eventing European Championships on the horizon, all eyes are on the athletes who could shape the storylines of the year ahead. Some are chasing long-awaited titles. Others are stepping up with serious horsepower. And a few are quietly poised to have their breakthrough season.
To mark the start of 2025, we gathered predictions from Nicole Brown, Diarm Byrne, and Peter "Spike the Vet" Milligan—three voices who know the sport inside out. From championship frontrunners to rising stars and world number one contenders, here’s who they’re tipping to take centre stage this season.
Who takes the title at Blenheim this September? With the Europeans returning to British soil, it’s a big opportunity for a home-team win.
- Yasmin Ingham and Banzai du Loir – Diarm’s pick for redemption after Paris. Big Aachen form and a proven record at Blenheim.
- Ros Canter and Izilot DHI – Nicole is backing the five-star winner who’s been sub-20 at Blenheim before. A low-scoring threat.
- Laura Collett and London 52 – Spike sees this as the moment for the 16-year-old superstar to finally land individual gold.
World Number One by Year-End
Who finishes 2025 at the top of the FEI rankings? This one sparked debate.
- Tim Price – Spike and Nicole are in agreement here. With a deep string of horses at the top level, Tim could rack up the points across multiple five-stars.
- Harry Meade – Diarm is all-in. With Annaghmore Valoner, Superstition, and a strong backup cast, he thinks Harry will win big—and still not get picked for a British team.
- Boyd Martin – Nicole’s wildcard pick. Between Commando 3, Fedarman B, and rising U.S. horsepower, he could climb high.
Young Guns to Watch (22 & under)
Not just names for the future—these riders are ready to make waves this season.
- Oscar Fitzgerald – Nicole picked one of the UK’s most exciting juniors. With a strong string and results across the board, he’s aiming for the Junior Europeans.
- Tom Nestor – Diarm looked back at his Irish roots for his pick of Ireland’s rising star. Junior silver medallist at Strzegom with Cooley Diamond Dancer. Quietly building serious form.
- Izzy Cook – Spike went with a rider already on the radar after individual bronze at Young Riders. Look for her to step up again with multiple horses at advanced.
2025 is shaping up to be a defining season. Whether it’s redemption stories, long-awaited titles, or breakthrough performances, the stage is set for a big year. These riders aren’t just part of the conversation—they’re ready to lead it.
Take note. Follow closely. These are your riders to watch.
Want more bold predictions and behind-the-scenes picks? Catch the full breakdown on the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast.