Pilar Cordón will not be lining up at the World Championships in Aachen. The Spanish rider suffered an injury following a fall last weekend. On medical advice, she has been forced to withdraw from the title fight. The Royal Spanish Equestrian Federation (RFHE) has called up Iván Serrano as her replacement.
Cordón broke the news herself on Tuesday. Following consultations with her medical team, the decision was made to prioritize her health and recovery. It comes as a major setback for the Spanish rider, who had earmarked the World Championship as a primary goal for the season.
She expressed her disappointment on Instagram: "Unfortunately, the injury I sustained from my fall last weekend forces me to withdraw from participating in the World Championships in Aachen. This was an event I had prepared for with huge enthusiasm and one that meant a great deal to me. I wish the Spanish team the absolute best of luck. I am convinced they will have a fantastic World Championship and I will be cheering them on from afar. It is now time for me to focus on my recovery so I can return as quickly as possible. Thank you all for your support."
The Spanish Federation acted quickly to fill the vacancy, designating Iván Serrano to step up. He will take her place representing the Spanish flag alongside Rain Man in Aachen.