2025: Awaiting the European Championships

After the Olympic year has been archived, equestrian sports are gearing up for a new four-year cycle full of ambitious goals. Dressage, in particular, is preparing for the 2025 European Championships, the organization of which has proved somewhat turbulent.

However, as always, the FEI leadership has worked diligently to find an effective solution. Initially, the event was set to be held in Šamorín, Slovakia.

However, the venue withdrew its bid. Consequently, the FEI Board, which convened last November in Abu Dhabi, reassigned the event to a new and picturesque location: the French town of Crozet, which will host the championships from August 28th to 31st.

Beautiful and Cutting-edge The Jiva Hill Stables, which will host the event, is located in Crozet, on the Franco-Swiss border near Geneva. This mountainous region boasts spectacular landscapes, yet is centrally located and easily accessible for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It is particularly convenient for riders and horses arriving from all over Europe.

In addition to the state-of-the-art arenas, perfectly suited to host high-level competitions, the Jiva Hill Stables is a modern and ecologically sustainable facility, seamlessly integrated into the enchanting surrounding landscape, which is part of the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park.

This is of particular importance as the equestrian sector has long embraced environmental sustainability, and this focus has become increasingly significant.

After hosting the Olympics in the breathtaking setting of Paris, the French have also taken on the responsibility of organizing the Dressage European Championships, marking the first time the event will be hosted by the neighboring nation.

France, however, is well-practiced in organizing major events for the equestrian world. In fact, the World Equestrian Games were held in Caen in 2014.

High Expectations There are high expectations for the upcoming European Championships. Many top combinations are expected to compete, starting with the Olympic champions from Germany: Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and Isabell Werth, as well as British rider Charlotte Fry, all eager to defend their Olympic podium positions and ascend to the top of Europe.

However, we must not forget that the continental event will also see the highly anticipated return of Charlotte Dujardin, provided that maternity leave allows it. By then, she will have completed her suspension.

The year has just begun, but the arena is already heating up and ready to deliver the usual thrilling emotions.

Elena Pecora

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