João Victor Castro: Rising Brazilian Talent with an Olympic Dream

In his twenties, João Victor Castro has already established himself as one of Brazil’s most promising show jumping talents. Competing at five-star level and representing Brazil in major Nations Cups, the Brazilian rider’s journey reflects dedication, adaptability, and long-term ambition.

From Brazil to Europe: Where It All Began

João’s introduction to horses began at a very young age — though not immediately through show jumping.

“When I was five, I practiced another sport in Brazil called vaquejada,” he explains. “My father loved it, and that’s how I was first introduced to horses. But my mother wanted me to find another discipline involving horses.”

That search led to a small riding club in his hometown of Manaus, where his passion for show jumping truly began.

“That’s where everything started. Since then, I never stopped.”

A Bold Move to Europe

At just 15 years old, João and his family made the important decision to move to Europe.

“My dream has always been to represent Brazil at the Olympic Games. I knew that if I wanted to reach that level, I had to come to Europe and raise the standard of my career.”

Representing Brazil on the World Stage

Wearing the Brazilian colors remains one of João’s proudest achievements.

“Every time I represent Brazil in a Nations Cup, it’s a dream come true,” he says. “Jumping a double clear for the team was one of the most special moments of my career.”

“To represent my country and help the team makes me very proud.”

Based in Belgium: Progressing with Ecurie Mathy

Now based in Belgium, João rides for Francois Mathy , where he has spent the last four years developing both as a rider and as a horseman.

“After riding my own horses for many years, I felt I needed a change,” he explains. “I wanted to ride more, show more, and be part of a different system.”

That transition came together through Pedro, the manager, who introduced João to François Mathy and the Mathy team.

“From the beginning, it felt like the right place. Every year we’ve taken a step forward — more horses, better shows, and better results.”

Learning from François Mathy

Working with François Mathy has had a major influence on João’s development.

“He has an incredible eye for horses,” João says. “Sometimes I don’t immediately feel a horse, but he sees potential. With time and work, he’s often right.”

Beyond performance, João learned to understand the broader picture of the sport.

“It’s not only about results in the ring. You need to present the horse in a way that looks confident, relaxed, and easy. That changed my way of riding.”

Managing a Dealing Stable System

Being part of a dealing stable means horses regularly come and go — something João accepted from the beginning.

“I knew this was part of the process,” he explains. “This year, we were able to keep two or three top horses, which helped me improve my ranking and stay competitive at higher-level shows.”

Cashpaid J&F: A Special Partnership

One partnership stands out in particular: Cashpaid J&F.

“He’s a very special horse to me. We have a strong connection,” João says. “Like every partnership, we have ups and downs, but he challenges me and pushes me to work harder every day.”

João strongly believes in the horse’s potential.

“I know how much he has inside him. When everything comes together, I believe he can be one of the best horses on the circuit.”

He is deeply grateful to Signe and Ezequiel , the owner, for trusting him with such an opportunity.

“Many riders would love to ride a horse like this. I’m very thankful they chose me and chose Performity.”

Looking Ahead

With major championships approaching, João remains focused and realistic.

“Brazil has many strong riders and combinations,” he says. “My goal is to be ready. If the team needs me, I want to be in the best possible condition to help.”

For João Victor Castro, the journey continues — guided by patience, ambition, and the belief that everything happens at the right time.

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