Now based in France with his wife and family, Bettendorf's connection to horses stretches back as far as he can remember.

"I started riding when I was a little boy because my mum had a pony riding school and my dad was a passionate breeder," he explained. "We always had horses around, so I don't really remember the first time I sat on a horse. Since I was young, I've always been riding."

Although basketball and his studies briefly competed for his attention, horses ultimately won.

"When I turned 24, I chose to become a professional," he said. "I spent five years in Germany before moving to France, and that's where we are now."

The Moment Everything Changed

Looking back on Rome in 2024, Bettendorf still speaks with a sense of disbelief.

"Actually, it changed everything," he admitted.

The season had not started according to plan after the loss of Mr Tac, but in hindsight, Victor believes that disappointment opened the door for Foxy de la Roque to flourish.

"I think at the end, it was the best thing that could have happened for Foxy because she stepped up and jumped amazingly the whole season."

Rome was the moment Bettendorf realised he was sitting on something truly special.

"I think the first time I really realised I had a superstar was in Rome."

The qualification class had been demanding, and expectations for Sunday's LGCT Grand Prix were modest.

"I remember saying maybe it's enough just to qualify because Sunday was going to be too difficult."

Instead, Bettendorf found himself last to jump in the Grand Prix with victory within reach.

"Everything went so fast and so easily. After that, everything felt much easier because I knew what the feeling was to have a real superstar."

What followed was perhaps the most telling insight into the confidence Foxy inspired.

"When I rode the second round, it's the first time in my life I was sure I was going to do a good result. I didn't even think about making a mistake. I just tried to enjoy the moment. It was an unbelievable feeling."