With pressure mounting at the halfway point of the season, Ciaran Nallon aboard Casalla Blue PS and Christian Kukuk with Checker 47 produced when it mattered most, climbing from fourth after round one to claim victory in spectacular fashion and secure maximum championship points.

The ever-consistent Prague Lions powered by Czech Equestrian Team continued their impressive campaign to finish second. A crucial double clear from Thibeau Spits and Impress-K van't Kattenheye Z, combined with Niels Bruynseels' second-round clear aboard Chacco's Lando OL, saw them finish just over three seconds adrift of the winners.

Completing the podium were the fast-rising Mexico Amigos, with Zoe Hank Conter and Loui LN and Eduardo Pereira de Menezes aboard H5 Kontador VDM delivering two crucial clears in round two to leap up the leaderboard and secure third place.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Riviera, the GCL of Ramatuelle, St. Tropez once again delivered a captivating blend of elite sport and summer glamour. As the sun dipped towards the Mediterranean and the atmosphere intensified around the arena, fans were treated to a thrilling championship showdown where every rail and every second mattered.

Reflecting on Riesenbeck International's remarkable comeback after round one, Christian Kukuk revealed he never lost belief in the team's chance. He said; "Even after the first round, I had a good feeling. Kieran had a really, really great round and, to be honest, I was also happy with my round despite the two down because Checker felt very good."

Kukuk was full of praise for teammate Ciaran Nallon, whose performances with Garzillo proved instrumental in securing victory. He added, "Kieran did a great round again. His performance was outstanding today with Garzillo."

The win marked Riesenbeck International's first GCL triumph of the 2026 season, with Kukuk hoping it signals a shift in m3 seomentum, "We're super, super happy to be on top of the podium. It's the first time this year. We've had a rough season until now, but hopefully this is kind of a turnaround."

Nallon reflected on the dramatic change in fortunes between rounds, "At the halfway point, you couldn't have expected that the second round would look completely different."

For Prague Lions powered by Czech Equestrian Team, second place represented more than another podium - it was another statement of intent in an increasingly competitive championship battle. 

Reflecting on Prague Lions powered by Czech Equestrian Team's impressive form this season, Niels Bruynseels credited the depth and spirit within the squad, he said, "We are really happy. Last year we were always chasing points to get into those top four spots, which is very important. This year we have some very good horses, the team spirit is good and everything is going well."

With the championship entering a crucial phase, Thibeau Spits emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum through an intense summer schedule, he said "We've been on the road for three consecutive weeks and we just have to keep delivering. Next week it's Paris, then Monaco, then Riesenbeck. All these shows are important."

Despite another strong result, Spits insisted the team's focus remains firmly on consistency,he said "We just have to keep the consistency. Every show is important. Keep delivering every weekend."

Reflecting on Mexico Amigos' first podium finish of the season, Zoe Conter praised both her horse's determination and the team's perseverance throughout the campaign, "He was fighting for me all the way through. It was a great feeling, especially because it was such a difficult course. It gives you extra satisfaction when everything comes together."

She added, "We keep getting hungrier. We have good horses and good riders, so eventually it had to come together."