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After a thrilling season across some of the world’s most iconic indoor venues, the FEI Jumping Ponies’ Trophy 2025 reached its conclusion at Jumping Mechelen.

The title went to Sophia Aurelia George, who claimed victory together with Berlioz d’Henann. Going into the final, she did not expect to come out on top.
“After having a rail down earlier in the competition, I honestly thought others would beat me,” she admitted. “When that didn’t happen, it slowly started to sink in. That moment was very special.”

Sophia is well aware of the history behind the FEI Jumping Ponies’ Trophy, with former winners progressing to European Championships and even the Olympic Games.
“That’s exactly what motivates me,” she explained. “I dream of competing at that level one day. This win feels like the first real step in that direction.”

Second place went to Selma Hundborg Dresler with Lady Crown. While silver can sometimes feel like just missing out, she was above all pleased with her performance.
“Over five rounds, anything can happen. I really didn’t expect this result,” she said. Riding the nine-year-old mare Lady Crown only since April, their partnership is still relatively new.
“She has so much willingness and always wants to do her best. That made the difference here.”

Third place was claimed by Victoire Chapalain with Fantho de l’Etape. She looked back on her final with pride, especially after a challenging start in one of the rounds.
“It’s not easy to come back after that,” she said. “But my pony kept fighting for me. Finishing on the podium in a final like this means a lot.”

In front of a home crowd, Belgian rider Robin Vermeir fought her way to an impressive fourth place with Atomic du Bary. “I honestly wouldn’t have dared to dream of this beforehand,” he admitted. “My pony really grew throughout the competition, and the Belgian crowd gave so much extra energy. That atmosphere is something I won’t forget.”

What stood out during the press conference was the strong sense of camaraderie among the finalists. Rivals in the arena, but united by mutual respect and friendship, exactly in the spirit in which the FEI Jumping Ponies’ Trophy was created.

To conclude, Peter Bollen once again underlined the original vision of the series.
“This is precisely what we had in mind: giving young riders the chance to experience top-level sport at major venues, with everything that comes with it,” he said. “Seeing former participants move on to European Championships and even the Olympic Games shows that the concept truly works.”