The team continues to be guided by National Coach and Chef d’Équipe Otto Becker, whose experience at the highest level has been instrumental in shaping Germany’s modern team strategy. A former Olympic gold medallist and a central figure in German Jumping for more than a decade, Becker has overseen a performance-driven system that balances proven experience with the development of emerging talent. As Germany looks ahead to the 2026 season, Becker shares his vision for consistency, preparation, and delivery under pressure on international Jumping’s biggest stages.

Germany remains one of the benchmark nations in Jumping. What factors were most influential in securing qualification for the 2026 Longines League of Nations™?

Qualification for the 2026 Longines League of Nations™ was the result of several contributing factors. Key elements included consistently strong performances across the season, a broad depth of high-level combinations, and close cooperation between athletes, coaches and the horse owners. In addition, long-term planning focused on stability and reliability, rather than isolated results, played an important role.

 

“The series provides valuable international benchmarking and experience for both athletes and horses. Our advice to younger athletes is to be patient, work consistently on their skills and always prioritise the horse.”

Otto Becker (Chef d’Équipe - GER)

 

German teams are known for structure and reliability. How do you maintain those strengths while adapting to the evolving demands of modern team sport?

Structure and reliability remain core principles of our approach. At the same time, the sport continues to evolve. We respond by regularly reviewing and refining our processes, including season planning, performance analysis and communication within the team. The aim is to preserve proven strengths while integrating new ideas where they add value.

How do you integrate emerging athletes into the senior team environment without compromising competitive consistency?

The integration of emerging athletes follows a gradual, performance-based pathway. Young athletes gain experience in different formats and progress through development and perspective squads before stepping into senior team roles. Throughout this process, we place strong emphasis on continuity, clear responsibilities and close professional support.

How does your philosophy on horse welfare guide your planning across a long Longines League of Nations™ season? Are there any core welfare principles you can share?

Horse welfare is the foundation of all sporting decisions. Over a long Longines League of Nations™ season, this means careful and forward-looking competition planning, adequate recovery periods and close coordination between athletes, coaches and veterinarians. Core principles include responsible workload management, individual care and the belief that sustainable success is only possible with healthy, motivated horses.

What does strong performance in the Longines League of Nations™ mean for Germany’s long-term development, and what is your advice to younger athletes?

Strong performances in the Longines League of Nations™ are an important component of long-term development. The series provides valuable international benchmarking and experience for both athletes and horses. Our advice to younger athletes is to be patient, work consistently on their skills and always prioritise the horse. Sustainability, willingness to learn and teamwork are key to building a successful career.