In an exciting final, French showjumper Julien Epaillard confirmed his form with his trusted Donatello d'Auge. "Having this pressure every week would not be possible," Epaillard reacts after winning.
The Longines FEI World Cup Final in Basel delivered thrilling top sport. The suspense lasted right until the last combination entered the arena. Leader Julien Epaillard managed to complete a faultless course with Donatello d'Auge leading up to the final round. As the last to go, the pair were allowed a maximum of one jumping fault. With just one rail down, Epaillard sealed the win!
"I felt a lot of pressure today," the French winner smiled. "It was positive pressure and of course I enjoyed my team here in Basel. Donatello impressed this week. He was incredible all week long! For the final I really just tried to have a good plan. I - however- felt Donatello was a bit tired, starting the last round. It has been a long week with big rounds. Still I could count on him!"
Epaillard won the Longines FEI World Cup Final, staying ahead of former Olympic champion Ben Maher with Point Break (Action-Breaker). The Brit followed with seven points, ahead of Kevin Staut and the 16-year-old SF mare Visconti du Telman (Toulon).
Just off the podium was Henrik von Eckermann with Iliana (Cardento), followed by Sophie Hinners and the 13-year-old BWP gelding Iron Dames My Prins (Zilverstar T).
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