Morocco Royal Tour: Emanuele Gaudiano and Crack Balou Shine in the Prix de Dakhla

Tetouan, September 21, 2025 – Another brilliant performance in Tétouan crowned Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano, who rode his trusted Crack Balou to victory in the prestigious Prix de Dakhla, the highlight of the third competition day at the Morocco Royal Tour.

A long-awaited triumph

Under the spotlight of the Royal Guard, Gaudiano – renowned as one of the fastest riders on the international circuit – delivered a flawless performance on a demanding course designed by Cédric Longis, which produced a remarkable number of clear rounds.

“I hadn’t won a class yet this week, despite two second places, so I was really looking forward to this victory,” said Gaudiano, currently 48th in the world rankings. “I have four very good horses for this Tour, and we try to manage them carefully across the three weeks of competition. Today, I took some risks, especially on the second fence in the jump-off, and I finished strong at the last. Now, all focus goes to tomorrow’s Grand Prix.”

The result further confirms the consistency of the Gaudiano–Crack Balou partnership, already well-established as a force at the Morocco Royal Tour.

An international podium

French rider Alix Ragot, aboard Gueule d’Amours, took second place after having finished third in Friday’s qualifier. “It was a very enjoyable course to ride, with excellent footing and a competitive jump-off. On the final fence, I chose to secure a clear round rather than push for maximum speed,” she explained.

Third place went to Abdulrahman Alrajhi of Saudi Arabia, who partnered Ventago, the horse he competed with at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where the pair finished 13th in the individual standings.

Show in the Prix Tanger-Med

The CSI4*-W (1.45m) Prix Tanger-Med provided another spectacular class in Tétouan, with victory going to Britain’s Joe Whitaker and Icaterina. “My mare was incredible today – sharp and playful. The atmosphere was fantastic, with the crowd so engaged… these are the moments we ride for,” said Whitaker.

French rider Ragot once again featured on the podium, this time in second with Gold Sky de Pégase, while Italy’s Roberto Previtali completed the top three with Corembar Blue PS, also securing sixth place with Quirinus 27.

CSI1* results

The Prix Maroc Vert (1.35m) went to Dutch rider Finn Boerekamp with So Guilty, after a strong third-place earlier in the day. Mans Thijssen with Nouveau Noir Evo finished second, and Swiss rider Thibaut Keller took third aboard Sunshine ‘H’.

The opening class, the Prix Guergarat (1.25m), was dominated by local riders: Morocco’s Mohammed Nizar Souktani claimed victory with Genesis Z, followed by Ghali Bougja with Con Tenor, while Boerekamp completed the podium with Non Fictie.

Spotlight on the Grand Prix

After an intense day of competition, all eyes are now on Sunday’s highlight: the Grand Prix CSI4*-W (1.55m) – Prix de S.A.R. le Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, which will bring the Tétouan stage to a spectacular close.

With Gaudiano in top form and the international elite ready to contest the honours, the Morocco Royal Tour promises a Grand Prix to remember.

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