Today all eyes were on the final team competition. After the individual Olympic medals had been handed out, the team competition was held using the new format. The best 10 teams came to the start.Today all eyes were on the final team competition. After the individual Olympic medals had been handed out, the team competition was held using the new format. The best 10 teams came to the start.
After the first two combinations of each country had ridden, there was a 20 minute break to determine the final starting order. Just before that break, only France managed to have a clear round. Belgium, USA and Sweden shared second place with one jumping fault. Marc Houtzager and Harrie Smolders limited the damage to 9 points, good for a fifth place for the start of the final round.
For Belgium, Pieter Devos and Claire Z (Clearway) were the first to start. The pair jumped a fault on the oxer before entering the last line. Jérome Guery followed with Quel Homme de Hus (Quidam de Revel), and managed to make full use of his agility, resulting in a clear round.
Last Belgian at the start was Gregory Wathelet with his Nevados S (Calvados Z). The pair started the course calmly but masterfully. Two jumping faults ensured that the medal hopes were dashed with a total of 12 points.
American show jumper McLain Ward was the last to start with Contagious for his team. McLain limited the damage to one jumping fault. With a total of 8 points team USA was so sure of a medal. Peder Fredricson and All-In jumped the last fence out of the noses, so Sweden came with 8 points in first place with America.
Last rider on the start, Pénélope Leprévost got a refusal on the double combination and this resulted in an elimination. This gave Belgium the bronze medal.
McLain Ward was the last rider to start for America with Contagious. McLain set an unbeatable time with a finish in 39.92 seconds. This put the pressure fully on Peder Fredricson with All-In, the pair had to stay under 40 seconds. The pair started fast and took every opportunity. And the pair did it more than deservedly.