There was a kiss to the sky and a roar from the crowd when the Prague Lions sealed victory at GCL Vienna, their second win of the 2025 season. Against the glowing backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, the team’s riders Fernando Martinez Sommer and Pieter Devos delivered under pressure, riding with steel and precision as supporters erupted in celebration.
For Sommer, the night carried extra emotion. Just weeks after the birth of his daughter, he admitted, “This venue is unbelievable to show at. It has been an emotional couple of weeks for me… this is just even more special.” His teammate Devos, visibly thrilled, praised both the horses and the team’s unity: “We needed to perform today to get in the top four for the GC Playoffs. The pressure was on, but the atmosphere in this team is fantastic.”
Prague Lions Rise Above the Rest
The GCL Vienna clash, staged before a sell-out crowd, was the 13th leg of this season’s Championship and it did not disappoint. The Lions struck early with a faultless first round before sealing their triumph late in the evening, their combined precision lifting them above rivals Riesenbeck International.
Riesenbeck, powered by Horse Gym, turned in a flawless second round through Christian Kukuk and Philipp Weishaupt, reminding everyone of their growing strength. “Third podium in a row… everyone else has to be careful now,” Kukuk warned with a grin.
Championship leaders Valkenswaard United showed why they remain in command, banking yet another podium finish with Marcus Ehning and Hans-Dieter Dreher. Though each clipped a rail, their quick time ensured third place — and vital points that keep them ahead in the overall standings.
The Drama of the Day
Earlier drama saw the St Tropez Pirates eliminated before the first round was truly underway, while the Basel Cosmopolitans narrowly missed the podium despite Jana Wargers’ superb double clear. The Shanghai Swans and Cannes Stars also impressed with crisp early performances, keeping the pressure on the leaders.
With the Championship table tightening, Valkenswaard United still top the standings with 261 points. The Cannes Stars sit second on 247, while the Prague Lions’ Vienna heroics have propelled them to third with 230. Shanghai Swans (227) and Riesenbeck International (215) remain firmly in the chase.
Eyes on Rome
As the lights dimmed over Schönbrunn Palace, the significance of the Prague Lions’ triumph was clear. They have momentum, consistency, and now the confidence of a team that knows it belongs in the fight for the title. The Championship heads next to Rome (October 10–12), where the stage is set for another gripping showdown in the race toward the GC Playoffs.
Read the full report on RaceBuzz and explore more details on the Global Champions Tour official website.
