FEI Jumping World Cup victory: Julien Epaillard unstoppable in Amsterdam

Amsterdam once again proved to be a special venue for Julien Epaillard, who on Sunday, 25 January 2026, claimed victory in the FEI Jumping World Cup™ leg with authority aboard the outstanding Donatello d’Auge. A lightning-fast double clear round allowed the French combination to prevail against a world-class field, repeating the success they had already achieved on this very arena in 2023.

A total of 38 combinations lined up at the start of the 1.60m course, featuring 13 fences and 16 jumping efforts, designed by renowned course designer Louis Konickx. The track rewarded precision, boldness and commitment, setting the stage for a highly competitive jump-off.

A solid performance also came from Piergiorgio Bucci, who finished in 13th place aboard Hantano, collecting four faults in the first round in a time of 69.73 seconds. His result confirmed consistency and reliability on a particularly demanding course.

FEI Jumping World Cup™ – Amsterdam

Podium

Julien Epaillard (FRA) – Donatello d’Auge
Alain Jufer (SUI) – Dante MM
Niels Bruynseels (BEL) – Delux van T & L

Last to go in the jump-off, Epaillard lived up to his reputation as the fastest rider on the indoor circuit, stopping the clock at an unbeatable 39.87 seconds.

Speaking immediately after his win, Julien Epaillard said:

“Winning a Grand Prix is never easy. I took all the risks. Donatello is an incredible horse, he always gives 100%. With experience, you learn when to take chances, and today it paid off. Coming to Amsterdam with my best horses is always a pleasure.”

National team selector Edouard Coupérie also expressed his satisfaction, highlighting the excellent form of the French squad:

“Julien’s jump-off time was impressive. Pénélope’s performance was also very positive. Having four French riders in the top ten of the World Cup standings shows the depth and quality of our work.”

On the road to the World Cup Final

The Amsterdam leg was the tenth qualifier of the 2025/2026 FEI Jumping World Cup™ Western European League, which consists of thirteen qualifying events. The next stop will be Bordeaux from 4 to 8 February, while the FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final will take place in Fort Worth from 7 to 12 April. As the reigning champion, Julien Epaillard is already automatically qualified for the Final.

Full results:
https://www.longinestiming.com/equestrian/2026/jumping-amsterdam-amsterdam/resultlist_S7.html

Photo credits: © FEI / Leanjo de Koster

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