Inside the Gothenburg Pre-World Cup Press Conference: Rider Reflections & Expectations

As the Gothenburg Horse Show reaches its final stages, some of the sport’s biggest names gathered for an exclusive pre-show press conference. 

Lars Kersten on Winning in Gothenburg

Last year’s World Cup winner, Lars Kersten, reflected on the significance of his victory and the journey that led him there.

-To win here was for sure one of the best moments of my career, We bred the horse ourselves, and that made it even more special. The podium was great too with Henrik and Peder finishing second and third. 

But as the Dutch rider knows, success at this level is fleeting. With a fresh set of horses this year, he faces the challenge of building new partnerships and delivering results on a different string.

The Battle for Basel: Edouard Schmitz Feels the Pressure

For Edouard Schmitz, the World Cup Final in Basel is within reach—but only if he delivers a top-seven finish this weekend. His season started strong, but setbacks along the way have put him in a tight spot.

-I started the season in the best way possible with a second place in Oslo, but then I had a long series of World Cups with just one down... Sometimes having my back against the wall makes me peform better.

Martin Fuchs on High-Stakes Moments

Fresh off his World Cup win in Bordeaux, Martin Fuchs knows what it takes to handle pressure. The Swiss rider revealed that while he initially considered riding a cautious round in Bordeaux, his instinct told him otherwise.

-Throughout the season, the pressure kept growing and growing. In Bordeaux I knew I had to deliver. Before the jump-off, my team and I talked about playing it sake to secure my place. But once I warmed up, I said, 'Sorry, bit that's not really my thing - I want to go for the win!

That aggressive mindset paid off, securing his ticket to Basel and proving why he remains a dominant force in the sport.

Harrie Smolders on Monaco’s Legacy

Dutch star Harrie Smolders has a long list of accolades, but much of his success has been tied to his remarkable horse, Monaco.

-I lost quite a bit of horsepower with the sale of Uricas, so now it comes down to Monaco. I didn't want to overuse him this winter because he's such a reliable partner for big championships and World Cups. This weekend, he's ready to step up. 

A veteran competitor and one of the most consistent pairs in the sport, Smolders will be looking to make the most of his reliable partner once again.

Listen to the Pre-World Cup Press Conference available the EquiRatings Jumping Podcast on all main podcast platforms.