Filippo Bologni: Beyond the Show Jumping Arena

An exclusive lifestyle interview with the Italian rider, touching on passions, business, and… lip balm.

In Montefalco, while the showgrounds are buzzing with energy, we’re stepping away from the arena to sit down with Filippo Bologni. Known for his success in show jumping, Filippo opens up about the other sides of his life—passions, routines, and what drives him outside the sport.

Hi Filippo, thanks for joining us. Let’s start off the field—what are your passions beyond show jumping?
“A lot of things! I love reading and studying. Sometimes I get into films and TV series, but that depends on how free my mind is—it comes and goes in phases. I also enjoy following other sports, though not obsessively. With show jumping, on the other hand, I’m a complete fanatic. I follow everything—live streams, results, you name it.”

You’re known to be a foodie. Tell us about that.
“Yes, totally. I love trying out restaurants, especially high-level ones. I enjoy tasting new things and indulging in the pleasures of life. I’m really into food, and to some extent wine too, but mainly food.”

You mentioned a love for studying and business. How does that play into your lifestyle?
“I’m very passionate about the entrepreneurial side of sport and life in general. I read biographies of entrepreneurs and often study late into the night just for fun. I never really stopped learning. I earned a bachelor’s degree in History—purely for personal growth—but if I had more time, I’d sign up for another degree, maybe in archaeology or economics. Even though I’m not a big fan of math, I still enjoy learning anything that could benefit me long-term.”

So you’re someone who dives deep into topics that genuinely interest you.
“Exactly. I’m not afraid to admit that I won’t read an equestrian textbook unless I have to. If I’m interested, I go all in.”

Let’s talk travel. What’s a trip you’ve taken just for leisure—and one you’d like to take for equestrian sport?
“In the past few years, I’ve done quite a few leisure trips with my wife—we went to Mauritius for our honeymoon, then to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and a few other places I can’t even remember off the top of my head! I love traveling because it helps me relax and also clears my mind to think about new business ideas. Every vacation has somehow turned into something productive. For future trips, I’d love to explore South America—Brazil or Argentina.”

And on the equestrian side?
“I’ve been lucky enough to compete in many events I dreamed of, but one I still have on my list is Aachen. I’d love to compete there one day.”

Let’s talk music—does it play a big role in your life too?
“Yes, and thanks for bringing that up—I totally forgot to mention it earlier! I listen to a lot of music and even produce some. I’ve written songs, some of which tie into the equestrian world. At first, it was a way to attract a broader audience to our sport, but recently, I made a new song just for the joy of creating. It felt great.”

Last question before we let you go—what’s something that never leaves your show bag?
“It doesn’t have to be equestrian-related, right? Honestly, it’s lip balm. Not for superstition or anything—I just can’t go without it. Luckily, I have no real addictions… other than that!”

Valentina Sozzi

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