Rising to the occasion, the Shanghai Swans delivered a flawless performance, executing a masterclass in precision and strategy to claim a dominant victory. The only team to finish on a clean sheet, their impeccable second-round display sent a resounding message to their championship rivals.

The atmosphere reached fever pitch as Max Kühner delivered under intense pressure aboard EIC Cooley Jump the Q, securing the win with a flawless clear. Earlier in the competition, teammate Katharina Rhomberg set the tone with a pivotal round, playing a key role in the Swans’ triumph. She was one of the only riders to produce a double clear on two different horses, following a strong opening-round performance from team anchor Christian Ahlmann.

Overwhelmed with emotion in the studio, a beaming Katharina Rhomberg struggled to put the moment into words as she stood alongside her Shanghai Swans teammate, Max Kühner. “I can’t believe it, actually,” she said. “It’s like a dream - riding here at this incredible venue, at such an amazing show, and winning? It’s just incredible!”

The battle for podium positions was just as fierce, with current championship leaders Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames and Riesenbeck International powered by HorseGym pushing each other to the final fence. Cannes Stars secured a hard-fought second place, finishing on just four faults, thanks to standout performances from Sanne Thijsen aboard the renowned Con Quidam RB and Katrin Eckermann with Iron Dames Cala Mandia NRW. Meanwhile, 2023 GCL Champions Riesenbeck International showcased their trademark consistency and resilience, clinching third place with strong rounds from new signings Marco Kutscher and Maximilian Weishaupt.

Katrin Eckermann couldn’t hide her delight after delivering clear rounds on both her mounts in Round 1 and Round 2. She said, “I have to say, both my horses jumped incredibly… With this team spirit around us, it’s a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed my rounds.”

As the dust settled in Mexico City, the 2025 championship standings saw a major shake-up. Cannes Stars extended their lead to 55 points, while Shanghai Swans surged into second with 41 points. Prague Lions remain in close contention on 38 points, setting the stage for an intense battle in the upcoming stages.Marco Kutscher reflected on the crucial 21 championship points earned by Riesenbeck International powered by HorseGym in Stage 2, with the team’s fresh lineup securing a strong fifth-place position. He said, “Congratulations to my teammates Max [Weishaupt] and Emanuele Camilli, who rode the first round. We’re really happy with that third place, and climbing the championship standings is excellent.”