The 2025 edition of the La Baule International Jumping event concluded with a flourish, crowning German rider Daniel Deusser as the grand champion of the Rolex Grand Prix Ville de La Baule. For four days filled with spectacle and high-level competition, the event brought together the world's best riders, including seven of the top ten in the world rankings and nine Olympic medalists, in an arena that vibrated with the passion of equestrian sport.
The final day was marked by a thrilling ride-off featuring eight of the best riders, a competition that kept spectators on the edge of their seats at the François André stadium. The competition was fiercely contested, with participants demonstrating their skill on a challenging and technical course.
Colombian René López Lizarazo, riding his mare Londina, set a remarkable time of 38.36 seconds, putting the pressure on his rivals. However, it was Daniel Deusser, riding Otello de Guldenboom, who delivered a flawless round, shaving more than a second off the time and securing his victory. Deusser, 41, a resident of the Lorraine region of France, has been ranked number one in the world multiple times and won the World Cup Final in 2014. His triumph at La Baule represents one of the most significant milestones of his career, and his horse, acquired three years ago by Stephan Conter, made history by achieving its first victory in a 5-star Grand Prix.
“I’m very happy with my horse; he did exactly what I wanted. It’s a very special day for me,” said Deusser, who expressed his satisfaction at having been able to plan his course after watching McLain Ward’s round, which finished third in the final. “This Rolex Series circuit brings together the best competitions in the world, and winning here is a huge honor.”
René López Lizarazo, who finished in second place, was thrilled and grateful for the opportunity. “I have a lot of affection for La Baule; it’s almost like my second home. I always receive a warm welcome here, and although I didn’t win, I’m very happy with Londina’s progress,” said the Colombian jockey.
American McLain Ward, an Olympic medalist in 2004 and 2008, completed the podium in third place with Imperial HBF. “I could have been a little faster, but Daniel was simply better today. I’m very pleased with my horse’s performance in our third competition together,” said Ward, who highlighted the quality of the event and the enthusiastic support of the fans.
In other categories, the morning session saw Swan Bourven's victory in the CSI 1* Range Rover Grand Prix, while Camille Condé Ferreira took the prize in the 1.20 meter competition, demonstrating his talent and consistency.
The president of the La Baule International Jumping, Pierre de Brissac, highlighted the success of this edition: “We have demonstrated that we can grow this event, with an attendance of almost 50,000 spectators over the four days. The quality of the competitions, the organization, and the passion of the public make La Baule a benchmark in the world of show jumping.”
With a stage full of emotion, talent and tradition, La Baule bids farewell until next year, making clear its position as one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar.
