In a finish that underlined the intensity of the new GCL format, St Tropez Pirates secured victory on a total of just four faults, stopping the clock in 147.23 seconds in Round 2. Hot on their heels, Istanbul Warriors powered by Carpe Diem Equestrian Team matched them on four faults but fell just short on time with 148.99 seconds. Rounding out an ultra-competitive podium, Basel Cosmopolitans powered by Les Trois Rois also delivered on four penalties, crossing the line in 149.41 seconds to secure third.

For the winning team, it marked a breakthrough moment early in the season, with a blend of experience and emerging talent coming together when it mattered most.

Speaking after their victory, Kaitlin Campbell (Karius), competing in her first season on tour, reflected on a landmark result: “This feeling is definitely not normal - I’m super happy to be here and we had an amazing result today. The whole team, PG and also Jérôme behind the scenes, does an incredible job keeping us focused and making sure everything goes to plan. Walking into the arena with that crowd is incredible - it just makes the horses jump even higher.”

Her teammate Piergiorgio Bucci  ( Pallieter vd N.Ranch)added: “Magnificent show, the crowd is amazing and the mare was really good. I’m very happy. Thank you to my teammate Kathleen - she had an amazing double clear, we were lucky to be fast enough.”

Pushing them all the way to the final seconds, Istanbul Warriors powered by Carpe Diem Equestrian Team delivered a statement performance to take second place.

Simon Delestre (Golden Boy DK) smiled: “A good start to the season - we’re really happy as the team did a fantastic job. I always say there’s a fantastic spirit within this team. Thank you to everyone and to the team manager for the support, even when things aren’t going as planned. Today is a great day for the team.”

Abdel Saïd (Bonne Amie): “It’s always an honour to be in a class like this. Today I really focused on jumping clear - I knew a lot could happen, especially with that line into the double, so to be in contention you first have to be clear.”

Completing the podium, Basel Cosmopolitans powered by Les Trois Rois showcased consistency and precision across both rounds to secure third place. Zascha Nygaard (Charino PS) commented: “I’m very happy - it’s such a beautiful show and the horses are jumping great in this arena. The ground has been prepared beautifully, the course-building team has done an excellent job, and the whole atmosphere - from the crowd to the hospitality - really sets a high standard. I’m really pleased with my horses. I just missed a little bit to the last jump in the second round, which is a shame.”

Today in Mexico City also reflected the continued collaboration with Years of Culture, celebrating the values of connection, exchange and shared experiences through sport. Set against one of the most vibrant destinations on the calendar, the partnership added another meaningful dimension to a memorable stage of the 2026 season.