Amsterdam as the setting for a fitting finale

That the farewell took place in Amsterdam was no coincidence. With Sterrehof’s Dante, Houtzager won the World Cup class in the Dutch capital twice: in 2020 and again in 2025. Performances that secured the combination a permanent place in the history of the event and in Dutch show jumping.

“Sterrehof’s Dante is a horse who always wanted to fight for me,” Houtzager had said earlier. And the setting of Jumping Amsterdam made those victories even more special. “In Amsterdam, everything was right: the atmosphere, the crowd, the energy. That he’s saying goodbye here feels logical.”

Winning a World Cup on home soil remains a lasting memory for the rider as well. “Winning the World Cup in your own country, in this arena, is something you carry with you for the rest of your life.”

“You only say goodbye to a horse like Dante once”

Between the sporting highlights and the many years of partnership, the moment of letting go has now arrived. “You know a day like this will come, but you only say goodbye to a horse like Dante once,” said Houtzager, who clearly reflected in Amsterdam on everything the combination built together.

He also expressed his appreciation for the organizers and everyone who supported the pair over the years. “I’m proud that I’ve been able to ride here. And a big thank you as well to the secretariat and the organizing team for taking such great care of us.”

In addition, Houtzager emphasized how important his home front and team have been. “My wife Juliana is here with me, and she is my rock. Every day I realise again how lucky I am to have this group of people around me.”

Afterwards, Houtzager also addressed everyone who played a part in the journey to the top, offering extensive thanks to those around him and the team behind the scenes. “Thank you to everyone who made this possible: our sponsors, friends, and all the people here.”