Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – January 19, 2025 – The thrilling final day of the 2025 Al Shira’aa Horse Show reached its crescendo with the €164,700 FEI Jumping World Cup™ Grand Prix Abu Dhabi CSI 4*-W — presented by Longines — delivering an unforgettable conclusion to two weeks of world-class equestrian sport.
The 1.55m track, devised by Italian course designer Elio Travagliati (ITA), proved challenging for many, seeing only five jump clear in the first round. With 11 riders through to the nail-biting jump-off, spectators were treated to a masterful display as Guido Grimaldi (ITA) from Italy took his first-ever Grand Prix win aboard the aptly named Gentleman, with a double clear in 39.67 seconds.
Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi (UAE) also rode two faultless rounds to secure second place in a time of 40.63 seconds.
Germany’s Christian Ahlmann (GER), no stranger to the podium, settled on third place following one time penalty in the first round and a quick clear in the jump-off aboard D’Aganix 2000 Z.
“This is my first time here at the Al Shira’aa Show, and it’s a moment I will never forget. To be on the podium with such fantastic sportsmen and athletes, for me, is an honour. And considering riding is not my full-time job, this is just like I’m living in a dream. I always try to do my best, and this is such a special night,” said Grimaldi of this win.
When asked about his preparations for the show, he added, “From Monday to Wednesday last week, I was in Istanbul for business, so I have to thank Luiz Felipe Cortizo Gonçalves de Azevedo Filho for preparing the horses over the past few days. He’s been training me for many months, and I consider their team a second family. More than anyone, I have to thank my wife for always supporting me.”
Patrick Aoun, Regional Brand Manager of Longines, praised the event, commenting, “This flagship-class showcased the pinnacle of equestrian sport, and we’re honoured to be here tonight to present to the winners. We wish all of the riders the best of luck with the upcoming qualifiers ahead of the final this April in Basel, Switzerland.”
Final Results – €164,700 FEI Jumping World Cup™ Grand Prix Abu Dhabi CSI 4*-W — presented by Longines
1) Guido Grimaldi (ITA) & Gentleman – 0 / 0 – 39.67
2) Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi (UAE) & Chacolu – 0 / 0 – 40.63
3) Christian Ahlmann (GER) & D’Aganix 2000 Z – 1 / 0 – 38.27
Source: Press Release (edited) by Hannah McCabe / Dark Horse Communications for the Al Shira’aa International Horse Show
Photos: © Al Shira’aa International Horse Show / Helen Cruden
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Categories: CSI 4*-W, English, Jumper News Italia
