Longines League of Nations Kicks Off in Ocala: A New Era for Team Show Jumping
The anticipation was electric as the inaugural Longines League of Nations event took center stage at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. Marking a new chapter in international show jumping, this elite competition brought together the world's top teams in a format designed to test not just individual brilliance, but collective strength and strategy.
Longines League of Nations Event hosted at The World Equestrian Center 2025
The anticipation was electric as the inaugural Longines League of Nations event took center stage at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. Marking a new chapter in international show jumping, this elite competition brought together the world's top teams in a format designed to test not just individual brilliance, but collective strength and strategy.
Ocala, often hailed as the "Horse Capital of the World," provided the perfect backdrop for the launch of this prestigious series. The event saw powerhouse teams from the United States, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and beyond battle for supremacy in an innovative two-round format that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
The U.S. team, competing on home soil, delivered a strong performance with clear rounds from its top riders and claimed the winning title. Their impressive display set the tone for the season ahead, proving that adaptability and teamwork will be the keys to success in the League of Nations.
Unlike traditional team show jumping competitions, the Longines League of Nations introduces a unique format that heightens the stakes. Only four riders per team compete in the first round, with just three advancing to the final round—removing the option of a drop score and placing additional pressure on every ride.
Opening Day Highlights:
The competition commenced with the $63,000 Lugano Grand Prix Qualifier CSIO5*-LLN on March 19. Belgium's Nicola Philippaerts, aboard Derby de Riverland, secured victory with a swift round of 64.08 seconds. This win set an energetic tone for the events to follow.
Team Competition Results:
The centerpiece of the event was the Longines League of Nations™ Team Competition on March 22. Ten national teams participated in the first round, with the top eight advancing to the second round. Each team fielded three athlete-and-horse combinations in this decisive round. While specific team standings and the winning nation were not detailed in the available sources, it is noted that the Irish team delivered a commendable performance, finishing in fourth place.
Individual Grand Prix Victory:
On the final day, March 23, the $85,000 The Dutta Corp. Grand Prix CSI2* showcased individual talent. Germany's Sophie Hinners clinched the win riding Viva Las Vegas W, besting a field of 40 entries. Canada's Kara Chad secured the runner-up position aboard Corinna Z, while Great Britain's Charlie Jones placed third with Montserrat OS.
The Ocala qualifier not only highlighted exceptional equestrian talent but also reinforced the World Equestrian Center's reputation as a premier venue for international competitions. Fans can anticipate reliving the excitement with a broadcast on CBS Sports Network scheduled for March 27, from 8 to 10 p.m.
