The crowd in Bordeaux was treated to a world-class jump-off today. Only seven combinations managed to advance to the decisive phase of the 1.60m Audi Grand Prix. Ultimately, it was Swiss rider Martin Fuchs who, just as he did in last year’s World Cup, left the competition in his wake.
Martin Fuchs and his faithful 15-year-old gelding Conner Jei (by Connor) seem to have a standing invitation to the winner's circle in this French arena. The duo flew across the finish line in a lightning-fast time of 34.32 seconds. With this win, Fuchs extended his run of success in Bordeaux, following his World Cup triumph at the same venue last year.
The battle for the top spot was incredibly tense. Luxembourg’s Victor Bettendorf came dangerously close with the 12-year-old SF mare Encore Toi du Linon (by Kannan). Clocking in at 34.47 seconds, he fell just fifteen-hundredths of a second short of the win, securing a well-deserved second place.
The podium was completed by German eventing legend Michael Jung, who proved he remains among the absolute world elite in 5* showjumping as well. Jung guided the young nine-year-old Zangersheide gelding Fischerheros Z (by Hotspot) to a flawless clear round, claiming third place.
While the podium featured an international mix, French riders dominated the rest of the standings in front of their home crowd. Cédric Hurel steered the 16-year-old Fantasio Floreval Z (by Florian de la Vie) to fourth place, while Camille Conde Ferreira rounded out the top five with Bassano de Nantuel, leaving a strong impression on the French fans.
