Set against the glistening coastline of Ramatuelle, St. Tropez, the 2025 Global Champions League delivered another unforgettable showdown, with Valkenswaard United roaring back into the spotlight. This leg of the championship saw high-intensity action, dramatic twists, and bold comebacks in one of the most picturesque venues on the circuit.
Valkenswaard United emerged victorious with a remarkable performance that brought them their second team win of the season. The duo of Hans-Dieter Dreher and Gilles Thomas, representing Madrid in this leg, rose to the occasion with grit and precision. Dreher’s double clear rounds laid the foundation, while Thomas, riding the promising Qalista DN, delivered a crucial clear and a four to secure the win. Reflecting on the performance, Thomas praised Qalista’s courage in her first major test at this level and gave credit to Dreher for anchoring the team’s strong finish.
Just missing the top spot by a narrow margin, Cannes Stars—powered by Iron Dames—delivered a thrilling comeback. Climbing from ninth after the first round to finish second overall, the team showed resilience and determination. Katrin Eckermann, who led the team to victory in St. Tropez last year, was proud of their efforts and highlighted the challenging nature of the second round, which tested riders under shifting light conditions as the sun set over the Riviera. The debut of teammate Anastasia in the first round added a fresh dynamic to the squad, and their chemistry was on full display.
Rounding out the podium were the ever-reliable Riesenbeck International, backed by HorseGym. The 2023 GCL season champions once again demonstrated their consistency with a solid third-place finish, thanks to strong rides from Christian Kukuk and Philipp Weishaupt. While they acknowledged that they’re still chasing that final bit of luck in 2025, the team was pleased with their progression and confident about building on the result in the upcoming events.
With only four faults separating the top contenders, this leg in St. Tropez was a testament to the fine margins in elite show jumping. As the season heats up, Valkenswaard United’s latest win injects fresh energy into their championship campaign. For fans and riders alike, the Riviera provided not just a stunning backdrop, but a stage worthy of the sport’s finest talents.
