“Believe in Your Dreams and Respect the Horses”: An Interview with Corporal Matteo Orlandi

GENEVA – During the 2024 CHI of Geneva, the only indoor event worldwide dedicated to three-day eventing, Corporal Matteo Orlandi sat down for an exclusive interview with the team at Horseshowjumping.tv. With enthusiasm, Matteo shared his journey, the experiences that shaped his career, and the ambitions driving him forward.

A shining example of talent, hard work, and pure passion, Matteo is part of a new generation of Italian riders excelling in even the most demanding competitions while upholding his family’s rich equestrian legacy.

A Passion Passed Down Through Generations

Growing up in a family where equestrianism was not just a passion but a tradition deeply ingrained in their identity, Matteo Orlandi’s path to becoming a professional rider with the Italian Army felt almost predestined.

His grandfather, Vittorio Orlandi, was a prominent figure in the golden age of Italian show jumping and now serves as President of the Lombardy FISE Committee. Matteo’s father, Massimiliano, also had a successful career as a rider, and his siblings, Alessandro, Agata, and Mia, all followed in the family’s footsteps.

With such strong roots, Matteo’s bond with horses grew naturally, evolving into a vocation and later into a profession. Reflecting on his upbringing, Matteo explained how his father played a central role in introducing him to the equestrian world from a young age.

“My brother and I grew up surrounded by horses,” Matteo shared. “We started riding as toddlers—I even remember being carried in a backpack while my dad rode. As we got older, we moved on from Pony Games to show jumping, and eventually, to eventing.”

This family foundation didn’t just hone Matteo’s technical skills—it also instilled a deep emotional connection with horses, something he considers essential for any rider.

Falling in Love with Eventing

Matteo’s decision to focus on eventing rather than show jumping happened almost by chance. “It all started accidentally,” Matteo explained. “We had an Irish pony originally bought for show jumping. One day, we had the opportunity to try eventing, and I fell in love with it.”

He continued, “Eventing is such a beautiful and thrilling discipline. It combines dressage, show jumping, and cross-country into one challenge. While I love the technical demands of show jumping and enjoy pushing the limits, nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of cross-country. That’s what makes eventing so special to me.”

Contrasting Eventing and Show Jumping

Matteo highlighted the key differences between eventing and show jumping, despite their shared foundation in equestrian sport. He stressed that success in both disciplines depends on the rider’s bond with the horse.

“In eventing, you need a deep understanding of your horse, especially during cross-country,” Matteo explained. “To complete a course successfully, you must have a clear plan and know exactly what you can ask of your horse in each moment. At the same time, you need to understand the limits of what your horse can give you.”

He added, “The same principle applies to show jumping. The ultimate goal is to achieve a perfect partnership between horse and rider, regardless of the discipline.”

Matteo emphasized that this level of understanding and harmony between horse and rider takes years of effort, patience, and sensitivity to each horse’s unique needs.

The Lessons of International Experience

Over the years, Matteo has represented Italy at numerous European Championships and international competitions—experiences he considers pivotal in his growth as both a rider and an individual.

“I’ve been lucky to ride a variety of horses, thanks to the support of my father and, more recently, my grandfather, who now helps me at competitions,” Matteo shared. “These experiences have taught me to adapt to different horses and focus on understanding their needs. Every championship and competition—from the national level to the Europeans—has been a crucial stepping stone. I’ve learned valuable lessons from both my mistakes and my successes, and these have helped me grow as a rider.”

The Dream of Competing at CHI Geneva

For Matteo, participating in the CHI of Geneva represents the culmination of years of dedication.

“Being here feels like a dream come true,” Matteo said. “Last year, I tried to qualify with a different horse—the same one I won the European Championships with—but we didn’t make it. This year, with a different horse and a lot of lessons learned along the way, we succeeded.”

He continued, “This competition is incredible, one of the toughest in the world, and features some of the best riders, like Michael Jung. My goal for tonight? To enjoy the experience and end the season on a high note by delivering a clean, precise round.”

Future Goals and Words of Advice for Aspiring Riders

Looking ahead, Matteo is laser-focused on his next big milestones. “My primary goal is to qualify for the Senior European Eventing Championships. Starting the season strong and earning a qualification at the four-star level will be crucial. After that, it’ll be up to the selectors. I’m also aiming for the Senior Italian Championships and continuing to develop young horses for the future.”

Matteo considers training young horses an integral part of his career. “With my father and grandfather’s support, we’re working to develop new horses capable of excelling in both eventing and show jumping. Improving year after year is our goal.”

Before ending the interview, Matteo offered advice to young riders looking to pursue a career in equestrian sport.

“Believe in your dreams and always respect the horses,” he said. “They are the ones who make it possible for us to achieve our goals. Work with experienced trainers who can guide you and push you to improve constantly. Never settle for ‘good enough’—always strive for excellence.”

A Beacon for Italian Equestrianism

This interview with Corporal Matteo Orlandi showcased the determination, passion, and talent of a rider who, together with his family, has become a significant figure in Italian equestrian sport. His story is a powerful example of how dedication, perseverance, and respect for horses can lead to extraordinary achievements.

V. Sozzi | Ph Massimo Argenziano

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