With 50 of the world’s finest riders at the start and a sold-out stadium buzzing with energy, the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria delivered a spectacular afternoon of sport at the Falsterbo Horse Show, now part of the prestigious Rolex Series. Under newly returned sunshine, the two-round 1.60m challenge pushed both talent and composure to the limit.

The course quickly proved demanding, as early rider José María Larocca (first to go) picked up 8 faults. But Sanne Thijssen (NED), second to go, made a statement with a fast clear aboard Con Quidam RB in 83.83s, soon joined by the likes of Max Kühner, Pius Schwizer, Simon Crippen, and Trevor Breen, who took the early lead in 82.99s. The home crowd roared as Amanda Eriksson became the first Swede to go clear, followed by star performances from Henrik von Eckermann (Minute Man), and Malin Baryard-Johnsson, who clocked the second-fastest clear in 80.18s.

With 14 clear rounds and only 13 spots available, the pace was as important as precision. Karl Cook (USA) and Caracole de la Roque stole the spotlight with a flawless round in 77.69s, the fastest of the first phase. Also advancing were Steve Guerdat, Peder Fredricson, Pedro Junqueira Muylaert, Matias Larocca, and Andreas Schou. Unfortunately, despite a perfect round, Amanda Eriksson was edged out by time, 14th at the end.

In a fiercely contested second round, double clears came thick and fast. Max Kühner set the bar, Andreas Schou raised it, and Sanne Thijssen lit up the arena with an electric 43.74s, appearing unbeatable. Steve Guerdat came close in 44.20s with Dynamix de Belheme, and Malin Baryard-Johnsson thrilled the home crowd with a lightning round in 45.64s with H&M Indiana. But it was the final rider — Karl Cook, last to go — who delivered a masterclass in precision and pace, stopping the clock at 43.28s and clinching a brilliant win in Falsterbo with Caracole de la Roque.

Article and complete results, from Rolex: https://www.rolexseries-equest…

Top 3 Results – Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria

Karl Cook (USA) – Caracole de la Roque – 0/0 – 43.28s

Sanne Thijssen (NED) – Con Quidam RB – 0/0 – 43.74s

Steve Guerdat (SUI) – Dynamix de Belheme – 0/0 – 44.20s

Germany finished the 2025 FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ season the same way they began it: with a victory. The German team secured its third consecutive series victory Saturday at Falsterbo (SWE), recording their fourth victory of the year in five starts.

Text by the FEI. Original version found here
The Hartmut Lemmers-led squad, which consisted of Tessa Frank (Lavaletta), Evelyn Eger (Tabledance 3), and Svenja Kämper-Meyer (Amanyara M Frh), put an exclamation mark on the season with a winning total of 204.087. The Netherlands finished second (197.978), narrowly followed by Sweden (197.283).

Germany’s four victories this season—which were earned at Wellington (USA), Compiegne (FRA), and Aachen (GER) in addition to Falsterbo—have come with a wide variety of combinations, putting the country’s depth in the sport on full display. Saturday’s squad was among its least experienced at the level, but the young group rose to the occasion.

“We have three quite young riders from Germany [here]. They have a lot of experience, national and international, but to ride in a Nations Cup is something special.

-Hartmut Lemmers (GER)

“We in Germany are very lucky to have a lot of good riders who can participate in a Nations Cup, so it was not always the same three or four riders that were riding,” he added. “We were very happy to win with so many different riders, because that is what is good for the sport in the future. We can build up from very different riders—not just from our Olympic team.”

The last rider to enter the arena, Kämper-Meyer produced the highest marks of the day in the CDIO4* Grand Prix test, earning a score of 69.609% aboard Amanyara M Frh.

“I was a little bit nervous today, because being the last rider always brings a little bit more pressure,” said Kämper-Meyer, who was the leadoff rider for Germany at Lier (GER). “My horse was very concentrated today…I could ride from point to point, and this is what makes her really good, because when she gets into the test, she knows what she has to do.”

Eger, a part of Germany’s winning effort in the season’s opening leg at Wellington, delivered a 67.391% score. The 27-year-old has developed her partner Tabledance 3, now 10, for five years, their journey beginning in the U25 division. Now, they are proving their consistency at the senior Grand Prix level.

“For me, this horse is super special. She has the kindest heart,” Eger said. “I started with her in the U25 series and then I switched over to the Young Horse Grand Prix series, so it was a big step for us to grow in the Grand Prix sport, and now we are here. It’s a deep relationship between us.”

Frank was just three-tenths of a point behind with Lavaletta (67.087%), who had only shown at the FEI Grand Prix level once before. Germany was the only team to have all three of its riders score above 77 percent.

“It’s an absolute honor for me to represent Germany in the Nations Cup on this world [stage]. It is overwhelming for us,” she said. “We had some little mistakes in the canter work, but I’m so happy with the horse, because she really tries, and the both of us are not very experienced in the Grand Prix. I’m just so happy to be here and happy to be on the team with these amazing people.”

Germany comfortably cliched the series title for the third year in a row, finishing with 52 points. The Netherlands earned second honors with 45 points, followed by Belgium (43 points). According to Lemmers, his country’s consistent excellence in the FEI Dressage Nations Cup™ series is a reflection of the federation’s commitment to both winning in the present and building for the future.

“[The Nations Cup series] is very good for our head trainer, Monica Theodorescu. She can have an overview of how the horses and riders are developing. Then you always have three or four good riders together [on a team], and that is very good for the future,” Lemmers said. “You are not only looking for Olympic teams, but also for other teams—what maybe in four years are Olympic teams.

“Today we had nice riding without pushing and stretching horses too deep,” he added. “I’m very happy with this, how they performed.”

FULL RESULTS

Just like in 2023, Abdel Saïd and Steve Guerdat went head-to-head in a thrilling jump-off in the Falsterbo Derby – on the exact same horses and on the exact same course. But this year, the result was reversed. With a lightning-fast and clear round, Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU not only secured the win – they also improved their 2023 time by over six seconds. Sandra Auffarth defended her third place from last year, this time on a new horse.

Saturday afternoon offered one of the highlights of Falsterbo Horse Show, the iconic Falsterbo Derby. 19 combinations took on the demanding 1.50m course with 19 fences and 22 jumps, including water ditches, gates, stone walls, and even jumps out of the main arena – a true test for both horse and rider.

Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU entered the ring as the tenth combination of the day and delivered the first clear round of the class, putting pressure on the rest of the field. For a while, it looked like the victory was his, until 2023’s winning duo, Steve Guerdat and Easy Star de Talma, entered the arena and matched the performance with another faultless ride. With those two remaining the only clear rounds, the stage was once again set for a jump-off between the same two riders, on the same horses, just as in 2023. Close behind, Germany’s Sandra Auffarth secured third place with C’Est A La Vie as the fastest of the four-faulters.

A rematch with sky-high expectations – would Abdel’s hunger for revenge pay off, or would Steve defend his title?

Abdel Saïd was first to go in the jump-off and set the tone with a fast and clear round, putting serious pressure on the reigning champion. Steve Guerdat, widely considered a Derby specialist, appeared unfazed and guided his Easy Star de Talma around the course with precision and experience – also clear. But it wasn’t enough to break Saïd’s winning streak. With this victory, Abdel added another title to his growing list, only hours after winning the morning’s Rolex Grand Prix Qualifier.

As tradition dictates, the jump-off, just as the historic Derby course, was identical to the one where these two stars last battled for the podium in 2023. While a few fences may change position slightly, the riders clearly came well prepared this year: Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU improved their time by more than six seconds. When asked how they managed that, Abdel laughed and answered:

“Lack of control!” and continued:

“Honestly, she’s just naturally a really fast horse. Two years ago, I think I was too timid. I learned a lot from riders like Steve – in those situations, when you’re first to go, just trying for a clean round isn’t enough. You have to really go for it.”

The new Derby champion’s appreciation for his horse was unmistakable:

“She always gives everything. She tried so hard – especially at the wall. I came in on a long distance, but she just rocked it. That’s why we do this – because of horses like her.”

Derby jumping is a true test of courage, technique, and trust between horse and rider, something Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU proved with every jump.

“You need a horse that’s both brave and smart. These fences and situations – banks, gates, jumping out of the arena, you don’t see that in regular classes,” said Abdel after the win.

Derby Specialist Praised the Falsterbo Crowd
Today’s runner-up Steve Guerdat shared his thoughts during the press conference:

“As always, it was a great Saturday at Falsterbo. My horse did really well – people often assume he’ll go clear, but it’s never that easy. Still, it’s such a joy riding a class like this.”

He continued:

“We were lucky with the sport despite the bad weather. The Nations Cup yesterday was great, and today’s derby – with a jump-off – made it even better for the crowd. The organizers did a fantastic job, and I’m especially impressed by the audience. Even in the rain yesterday, every seat was filled, and people stayed for the prize-giving. Sweden deserved the win yesterday, and I’m just happy I could be part of another great afternoon of sport.”

Third Place – on a New Horse
Just like in 2023, Sandra Auffarth claimed third place, this time riding C’Est A La Vie, competing in his first-ever derby:

“This was my horse’s first derby, so I was curious how he’d handle it. I trained a little, but not too much. He was fantastic – I love riding Derby, it’s absolutely my favorite thing. And I think my horse enjoys it too.”

When asked how her background in eventing – including two World Championship gold medals – helps in a Derby like this, she answered:

“You face unknown situations, and both horses and riders must react quickly – that’s very similar to cross-country. The course is longer, but unlike eventing, here you have more time to prepare for each jump. For me, the mix of both is what makes it so special.”

Derby Champions Honoured the Falsterbo Volunteers
Today’s top three gave the crowd a thrilling display of world-class sport that won’t soon be forgotten. All riders on the podium expressed their gratitude to the organisers for a fantastic event. After the press conference, the new Derby champion Abdel Saïd took a moment to record a video message to the volunteers who make Falsterbo Horse Show what it is:

“I would really like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers that are here from morning til night, whatever the weather is, to make this happen for us. And to make it possible for these beautiful crowds to come and enjoy the show.
I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the organisers for all the efforts they do, and to make this all happen. But again, above all, the volunteers and crowds, I’d really like to thank them for all the support and dedication.”

Complete Results:

1) Abdel Saïd, BEL – Arpege du RU 0-0/45.89

2) Steve Guerdat, SUI – Easy Star de Talma 0-0/47.93

3) Sandra Auffarth, GER – C’Est A La Vie 4/156.22

https://online.equipe.com/startlists/1119829

For the second year in a row, and the seventh time in total – Team Sweden has claimed victory in the Agria Falsterbo Nations Cup. And they did it in style, in front of an electric home crowd that roared them across the finish line.

After a thrilling second round, where eight of the world’s top teams battled it out, the atmosphere in the arena was nothing short of electric. The starting order in the final round was based on the results from the first round, in reverse, putting pressure on the top teams to maintain their lead. Team USA, who led after round one, entered last and faced high expectations.

But in the end, it was Team Sweden who outshone them all, delivering world-class performances with both precision and nerve.

Led by Chef D’Equipe Henrik Ankarcrona, the Swedish riders Petronella Andersson, Amanda Landeblad, Peder Fredricson, and Henrik Von Eckermann showed exactly why they’re among the best in the world.

– Falsterbo has meant incredibly much to us. This is where we want to be in the summer, this is where we want to perform and to stand on this podium, Henrik Ankarcrona says during the prize giving ceremony.

Not able to join us on-site? Follow the action online!

Please note that streaming is only available for territories outside of Sweden. In Sweden SVT( official broadcaster) broadcast live friday-sunday. Full schedule here

Friday 11th – Sunday 13th July 

Equisport: https://www.equisport.tv/en/events/falsterbo-horse-show-724

Highlights include Agria Falsterbo Nations Cup, FEI Dressage Nations Cup, Falsterbo Derby and

Territory: All territories except Sweden and Denmark

Sunday 13th July 

Rolex Livestream: https://www.rolexseries-equestrian.com/en/Live/Live.html

Territory: All territories except Sweden and Denmark

The first round of the Agria Falsterbo Nations Cup is complete. Nine nations took on the challenging course, designed by Frank Rothenberger, and four of them finished with a total of four faults each.

After the opening round, the competition remains tight at the top. The USA, Ireland, Switzerland, and Sweden all head into the second round on four faults apiece.

Thanks to the fastest combined time, Team USA currently holds the lead and will be the last to enter the arena in the second round, which follows a reverse order based on the first round’s results.

The second round will start at 16.00 CET

Current standings after round 1:

1. USA(4 faults, time: 217.76)

2. Ireland (4 faults, time: 221.40)

3. Switzerland (4 faults, time: 217.76)

4. Sweden (4 faults, time: 224.43)

5. Denmark (12 faults, time: 225.68)

6. Brazil (12 faults, time: 227.91)

7. Netherlands (16 faults, time: 224.21)

8. Great Britain (16 faults, time: 227.21)

_____________________

9. Argentina (16 faults, time: 228.17)

Only eight of the nine teams will move forward to round two. Team Argentina, having accumulated the slowest time out af the three teams on 16 fault, will not continue.

Holstein is conquering Sweden – on 12 July 2025, twelve highly promising foals will be put to auction at Falsterbo Horse Show. The hybrid auction sale provides you with an opportunity to secure top genes for breeding and sport purposes.

The promising youngsters are by sires such as Ermitage Kalone, Casall, Diarado or Quel Homme de Hus and Ogano Sitte. The five-star-rated horse show – Sweden’s biggest outdoor equestrian event – combines top-class sport with a family-friendly atmosphere and the Holsteiner foal auction has by now become a fixture on the timetable.

With his rider Gilles Thomas, Ermitage Kalone has been making a name for himself on the international show jumping circuit – at the Holsteiner foal auction he is represented by his daughter Thalia (lot 1). She already boasts several half siblings successfully shown in competition and Crawallo BS by Crawford (Kathrin Wiedmer/GER) is a very close maternal relation.

The second dam of lot 4, Touch of Diamond ML by Ermitage Kalone-Diarado, is a full sister to Cardento by Capitol I (Peter Eriksson/SWE). The family of this desirable filly has produced many other 1.60m level jumping horses, including Cartello by Cartani (Darragh Kenny/IRL).

Lot 10 comes from the direct dam line of former German Champion and runner-up in the European Eventing Championship, Brilliante by Ricardo (Inken Gräfin von Platen-Hallermund/GER): Valentin is by Holsteiner Verband stallion and international youngster tour winner, Vigado by Vigo d’Arsouilles.

The foals are presented live in the big show jumping arena on Saturday, 12 July around 2 o’clock, with the auction scheduled to begin directly after the traditional Falsterbo Derby, around 5 o’clock. Of course, for all those unable to attend, the event is livestreamed by ClipMyHorse.tv – even though you certainly won’t regret a trip to the international horse show held in the scenic health resort Falsterbo.

All information, the pedigrees and videos of the foals to be auctioned are now online on www.holsteiner.auction. Do not hesitate to contact executive director and marketing manager Felix Flinzer (+49 162 3493942), should you have any questions. ­

Henrik von Eckermann and Steely Dan kicked off a historic weekend at Falsterbo Horse Show with a home victory in the first Rolex Grand Prix qualifier, presented by Trikem. Under clear skies the riders began their pursuit for a ticket to Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix – held in Scandinavia for the first time ever.

Thursday afternoon offered top sport under perfect conditions as the first qualifier for the Rolex Grand Prix got underway. The qualifier, presented by Trikem, marks the first stage for riders aiming to secure a place in Sunday’s highlight event, the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Agria, which debuts in Scandinavia as part of the Rolex Series during this year’s Falsterbo Horse Show. The premiere has attracted one of the strongest lineups in the series’ history, with five of the world’s top ten-ranked riders competing.

Much to the delight of the home crowd, Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann and Steely Dan (b. 2016, by Hardrock Z – Cardento) delivered the fastest clear round of the day. One of the youngest horses in the field, Steely Dan impressed with his scope and carefulness. Von Eckermann, currently ranked world number three, praised the gelding’s heart and character, saying “he is careful and with a heart of gold” “The feeling is great, especially winning on home soil”.

Just tenths behind came Spencer Smith (USA) and HHS Seattle, a familiar pair to Falsterbo fans. Third place went to world number one Kent Farrington, who made his Falsterbo debut with Myla. Farrington expressed his appreciation for the event and the enthusiastic Swedish audience.

The Rolex Grand Prix, presented by Agria, will take place on Sunday, July 13 at 14:00 CET. Riders must qualify through two 1.50m speed classes – today’s qualifier and another on Saturday – with the top 50 combinations earning a place in Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix (CSIO*, 1.60m).

Each qualifier carries a purse of €28,200 and is run as a single-round speed competition with no jump-off.

1) Henrik Von Eckermann, SWE – Steely Dan 0/60.45

2) Spencer Smith, USA – Hhs Seattle 0/60.90

3) Kent Farrington, USA – Myla 0/61.37

Complete results:

https://online.equipe.com/startlists/1118920