THE STAGE IS SET FOR THE ROLEX GRAN PREMIO ROMA
The 92nd edition of the CSIO Roma – Piazza di Siena has delivered everything show jumping fans could hope for: elegance, intensity, and top-level sport in one of the most iconic arenas in the world. Nestled in the heart of Villa Borghese, the Piazza has once again proven itself to be a magical setting — where history and excellence meet.
Over the course of the past week, the world’s best riders have competed for victory, team pride, and above all, qualification for the most anticipated event of the competition: the Rolex Gran Premio Roma, which will take place on Sunday, May 25 at 12:30 PM.
This Grand Prix is not only the highlight of the week — it is a moment of prestige, part of the Rolex Series, a collection of the sport’s most exceptional events. The road to qualification was demanding, structured around three key challenges across Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Each phase showcased top-level sport and impressive performances, leading up to Sunday’s final.
THEY ARE IN : 45 RIDERS FOR THE ROLEX GRAN PREMIO ROMA
After three days of intense competition at the CSIO Roma – Piazza di Siena, 45 riders have secured their place in the week’s most prestigious class: the Rolex Gran Premio Roma, held this Sunday at 12:30 PM.
Among those qualified are some of the world’s most respected and celebrated riders, including (SUI) Steve Guerdat, (GBR) Ben Maher, (USA) Laura Kraut, (ITA) Emilio Bicocchi, (FRA) Kevin Staut, (ITA) Giacomo Bassi, and (BRA) Stephan de Freitas Barcha, who has already claimed a win and a second place this week as well as (USA) McLain Ward.
But behind the rankings and results, it’s the emotions and ambitions of the riders that define the atmosphere heading into the Grand Prix.
(ITA) Giulia Martinengo Marquet, riding Delta del’Isle, carries the weight of the Italian public’s hopes on her shoulders.
“With a horse like this, you always have a good feeling. He jumped beautifully yesterday, and I just hope to ride well for him — to give him the round he deserves and give us a real chance. Competing here, in front of my home crowd, as an Italian rider… it’s magical. It’s emotional. We all love being here. That’s why I truly hope to do well.”
(BRA) Stephan de Freitas Barcha has been one of the standout riders of the week, with Dinozo Imperio Egipcio delivering incredible performances with a victory.
“I’m really happy — this is an important win for me here in Piazza di Siena. The atmosphere is incredible, and riding here just brings me joy. It’s only my second time at this show: the first time, I finished third in the Grand Prix, and now I get this kind of victory. It’s really special. When Dinoso Imperio Egipcio was bought for me, I made a promise that we would win at 5-star level — and today, he did it. Tomorrow, I will be focused on the Grand Prix with Primavera Imperio Egipcio. She jumped a great Nations Cup, so I’m hopeful she will do just as well.”
(FRA) Nina Mallevaey, one of the youngest and most promising talents in the field, earned her place after an outstanding double clear in the Nations Cup with Nikka vd Bisschop. On Sunday, she will ride Dynastie de Beaufour in what could become a career milestone.
“I feel good — I think my horses are in great shape and I hope this good period continues. I will be riding Dynastie de Beaufour in the Rolex Gran Premio Roma; Nikko vd Bishop jumped the Nations Cup and will have a well-deserved rest. I will try to give everything I can. Winning would be incredible — it would be my first 5-star Grand Prix win, and to do it here would be unforgettable. This arena is amazing, and my dad is here — it would be very emotional.”
“As for the strategy, it will depend on the course. I will walk it carefully, see where the tricky spots are, check the time allowed — and if it’s tight, I will need to find two or three places to save time. Then, the goal is to be clear in the first round. There are many great riders here, especially the Americans — they’re strong and very competitive this weekend.”
As the final preparations are made, the excitement is rising. We are ready for the Rolex Gran Premio Roma.
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