Madrid in Motion laid down an early marker for the season ahead with a polished and decisive victory as the Global Champions League returned to Miami Beach in style.
With the Atlantic Ocean stretching out beyond the arena, the setting carried both atmosphere and significance. The circuit was back at one of its most recognisable venues after a year away, marking ten years since its debut at this very location and ushering in a landmark season for team show jumping.
From the outset, Madrid in Motion looked assured. There was no excess, no unnecessary risk—just clear, composed riding and a sharp understanding of what the new format demanded. Maikel van der Vleuten and Victor Bettendorf delivered when it mattered, producing faultless rounds to secure the team’s first win of the campaign.
The revised competition structure brought an edge to proceedings. With teams required to field their strongest combinations early and only the top ten progressing, there was little room to settle into the contest. The pressure was immediate, and mistakes proved costly.
Madrid in Motion, however, handled it with clarity. Van der Vleuten set the tone with a measured clear aboard Beauville Z N.O.P., before Bettendorf followed up under pressure, holding his line and rhythm to ensure the result was never in doubt.
“We can be very proud of the riders and the horses,” said van der Vleuten afterwards. “To start the season like this is a great feeling.”
Bettendorf admitted the pressure was real but embraced the responsibility. “We knew what we needed—two clear rounds. The plan was simple, and everything came together at the right time.”
Behind them, Valkenswaard United showed why they remain one of the most consistent teams on the circuit. Edwina Tops-Alexander and Gilles Thomas delivered a pair of assured performances to secure second place, maintaining the standard that saw them crowned champions last season.
There was also plenty to note from Cairo Pharos, a new addition to the league this year. They made an immediate impression, with Annelies Vorsselmans and Pim Mulder combining effectively to take third place. It was a composed debut that hinted at greater things to come.
Just outside the top three, Cannes Stars produced one of the quicker efforts of the day to finish fourth, while Scandinavian Vikings followed closely in fifth. Monaco Aces added to the depth of competition with a solid sixth-place finish, underlining how tight the margins already are.
Further down, Prague Lions recovered well to take seventh, while Mexico Amigos placed eighth after picking up faults at crucial moments. St Tropez Pirates and New York Empire rounded out the top ten, both left to reflect on opportunities that slipped away in the second round.
The new format also made its presence felt in the early stages. Several established teams were unable to progress beyond the opening round, a reminder that consistency from the very first fence is now essential.
As the competition drew to a close, Madrid in Motion stood apart—not just for the result, but for the manner of it. In a contest shaped by pressure and precision, they found both.
Attention now shifts to Mexico City later this month, where a very different test awaits on grass. If the opening stage is anything to go by, the season promises to be closely contested from start to finish.
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