The idyllic setting at the foot of the Château de Chaintré provided the perfect backdrop to wrap up a weekend of world-class equestrian sport. The demanding $1.55\text{m}$ course, designed by French course builder Cédric Longis, proved to be highly selective. Out of fifty starters, only nine combinations managed to find the key to a clear round, securing their ticket to the ultimate jump-off.

A Breathless Jump-Off: Cottard's Masterclass

In the final timed showdown, Grégory Cottard left absolutely no room for doubt. Partnered with Hold Up, a homebred gelding he has known since birth, the French rider delivered a beautifully fluid and blistering fast round. Crossing the finish line nearly four seconds ahead of his closest rival, Cottard took a brilliant revenge after a week where luck had not always been on his side.

Behind him, the timeless British icon John Whitaker secured second place. Guiding a horse in top form, Whitaker had to concede defeat to the Frenchman's blistering pace, though he remained delighted with his mount’s performance. The podium was completed by another strong French contender: Charlotte Léoni, who took a fantastic third place with Cyclone, maintaining her consistent form at the venue.

Grégory Cottard (FRA) – Grand Prix Winner ($1.55\text{m}$):

"I am truly happy because Hold Up is a horse I bred myself. Seeing him win at this level today brings up a lot of emotions. I lacked a bit of luck earlier this week, so this Grand Prix feels like sweet revenge. I found the first round delicate but very well designed—an interesting track that respected the horses. The course designer did a tremendous job, and having nine in the jump-off is perfect. I always love coming to Mâcon. The atmosphere is very family-oriented; I know Sébastien Dauvergne and Isabelle Breul well, so it’s always a pleasure to see them every year. Every single year, they make upgrades to the venue, which is remarkable. The horses are welcomed under optimal conditions here—I have absolutely no complaints! It's fantastic."

John Whitaker (GBR) – Grand Prix Runner-up ($1.55\text{m}$):

"I am very pleased with this second place. Of course, I would have preferred to win, but my horse jumped exceptionally well. I couldn't quite execute exactly what I had planned in the jump-off, but that's the nature of the sport. The course was perfect, and it has been an excellent weekend. I truly hope to return next year!"

Charlotte Léoni (FRA) – Third Place ($1.55\text{m}$):

"I am really delighted with this third place. This is our second clear Grand Prix in a row here. I put a bit of pressure on myself today because I wasn't happy with my round on the opening day. Cyclone isn't naturally a very fast horse. We will get quicker with time, but for now, securing the clear round satisfies me completely! I know the Mâcon venue well. The facilities get a 20 out of 20 from me! The stables stay cool, the arena ground is great—everything is aligned for a top-tier show, and I always seem to do well here. It's a real pleasure to come back every time."

result