Fontainebleau, France – April 24, 2025 – On the eve of the entry of the stars of the CSI 5*, the future show jumping champions set off on Thursday at Le Printemps des Sports Équestres – Fontainebleau CSI 5* & CSI 2*. France got off to the perfect start as the day ended with French victories, highlighted by Max Thirouin (FRA) and Utopie Villelongue teaming up to claim the €28,200 Cheval TV Prize CSI 2*, setting the tone for five-star action starting this Friday.

The host nation dominated the speed challenge, scoring a trifecta in the 1.45m class which was contested by 71 combinations. Thirouin (FRA) and the 2008 chestnut Selle Français mare (Mylord Carthago HN x Calypso d’Herbiers) proved to be too fast for the rest of the contestants, completing the course in 57.87 seconds.

Arthur Deuquet (FRA) with Only One van de Fruitkorf were the closest ones to the winners, finishing second in 59.62 seconds while Nicolas Sers (FRA) and Horizon des Partages completed the all-French podium just four-hundredths of a second behind.

Winner’s Circle – Max Thirouin (FRA)

“I’m happy! Utopie Villelongue has run about ten ranking events since the start of the year and has placed eight times but last year she was injured here and I felt a little apprehensive in the paddock today. Finally, once on the track, she became again the warrior I know. We are ahead of two very fast couples in this event so it’s only happiness! The organization of GL events Equestrian Sport and Sylvie Robert’s entire team is fantastic and the site is great. Within the community of riders, we are all fighting to come to the Spring of Equestrian Sports. This week, I have the chance to take part in the CSI 2* and CSI YH 1*, I am grateful for that and it is therefore an important week for me.”

Final Results – €28,200 Cheval TV Prize CSI 2*

1) Max Thirouin (FRA) & Utopie Villelongue – 0 – 57.87

2) Arthur Deuquet (FRA) & Only One van de Fruitkorf – 0 – 59.62

3) Nicolas Sers (FRA) & Horizon des Partages – 0 – 59.76

Source: Press Release (translated & edited) by Eloise Lépine for Le Printemps des Sports Équestres

Photo: © PSV Photo / J. Morel

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