London, UK — Belgium’s Gilles Thomas and his exceptional mare Luna van het Dennehof delivered a masterclass in speed and precision to clinch the Lugano Trophy at the Longines Global Champions Tour London 2025, thrilling a packed crowd at the iconic Royal Hospital Chelsea.
This 1.50m jump-off on the second day of the five-star event brought together 16 of the sport’s best combinations, each vying for a share of top honors in one of the most exciting competitions of the season.
Royal Hospital Chelsea — A Premier Equestrian Stage
The Longines Global Champions Tour London is known for its unique blend of world-class sport and an unforgettable setting. With the Union Jack fluttering against a backdrop of historic architecture, the venue offered a spectacular arena for elite show jumping. Spectators filled every seat, soaking up the late-summer sunshine and high-octane atmosphere.
The Winning Ride
Going second last in the jump-off, Thomas and Luna charged into the arena with clear intent. Their round was a textbook display of precision — forward distances to every fence, razor-sharp rollbacks, and just the right balance between boldness and control.
They stopped the clock at 41.39 seconds, overtaking Belgium’s Abdel Saïd and his Holsteiner gelding Calvaro, who had led with a time of 41.97 seconds.
Speaking after his victory, Thomas praised Luna’s fighting spirit:
“She’s incredible – she knows when it’s time to go fast and she loves the atmosphere here in London. In a jump-off like this, you need a horse who’s brave and careful, and Luna gives me that every time.”
Top Seven Results
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Gilles Thomas & Luna van het Dennehof — 41.39s
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Abdel Saïd & Calvaro — 41.97s
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Scott Brash & Hello Valentino — 43.02s
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Gregory Cottard & Cocaine du Val — 43.03s
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Pieter Devos & Jarina J — 43.83s
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Katharina Rhomberg & Colestus Cambridge — 44.23s
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Daniel Deusser & Gangster v/h Noddevelt — 44.30s
Highlights and Heartbreaks
Local hero Scott Brash gave the home crowd reason to cheer, delivering a flawless and fast round to briefly take the lead. France’s Gregory Cottard was agonizingly close, finishing just 0.01 seconds slower than Brash.
However, not all riders saw their plans succeed. Ben Maher and Ginger-Blue were blistering in pace but caught a rail. Maikel van der Vleuten and Dywis HH were on target for a podium finish until a single pole fell.
Early pacesetter Celine Schoonbroodt de Azevedo retired after an early mistake to save her horse for another day. Other riders, including Zoe Conter, Jana Wargers, and Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli, also missed out after costly faults.
Why the Lugano Trophy Matters
The Lugano Trophy is one of the key highlights in the LGCT London program, attracting top riders from around the globe. Success here not only earns valuable ranking points but also boosts momentum heading into the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of London, scheduled for Sunday.
The LGCT London stop is renowned for producing tight, high-pressure jump-offs where fractions of a second decide the winner — and 2025 was no exception. Thomas’s win further cements his reputation as one of the circuit’s most formidable speed riders.
What’s Next?
With Saturday’s Lugano Trophy decided, all eyes turn to Sunday’s Grand Prix of London — the marquee event where the sport’s biggest names will battle for one of the most prestigious titles in show jumping. Fans can expect even more drama, skill, and split-second decision-making in the heart of the British capital.
Read more on our Longines Global Champions Tour 2025 results for full event coverage.
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