Luciana Diniz Triumphs in the €308,600 Emirates Jumping Cup Grand Prix CSIO 5* presented by Longines

By Jumper News on 2026-02-18

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – February 15, 2026 – The curtain came down on an exceptional week of sport at the Longines League of Nations™ and The Emirates Jumping Cup, presented by Longines, with a gripping conclusion to the latter, in which Brazil’s Luciana Diniz (BRA) emerged victorious following one of the most demanding tests of the week.

A total of 50 elite combinations came forward to tackle the two-round €308,600 Grand Prix CSIO 5*, set over a technical 1.60m track. Designed to test the very best, the course quickly proved its strength, with only two combinations managing to jump clear in the opening round.

Rails fell across the arena as the final line and a delicate combination caught out even the most experienced partnerships, ensuring that only the most accurate performances would return for round two.

Between rounds, spectators were treated to a spectacular liberty display from Z7 Show Horses. Performing at complete freedom inside the main arena, the horses captivated the crowd.

**Luciana Diniz** (BRA) & **Vertigo du Desert**

When competition resumed, there was no room for error. In the end, it was Luciana Diniz (BRA) and Vertigo du Desert who held their nerve. Producing two foot-perfect rounds, the Brazilian rider finished on just one time penalty overall, crossing the line in 61.61 seconds in the second round to secure the title and confirm her place at the top of the podium.

**Tim Gredley** (GBR) & **Medoc de Toxandria**

Great Britain delivered a strong collective performance, claiming both remaining podium positions. Tim Gredley (GBR) finished second aboard Medoc de Toxandria on two time penalties.

**Joseph Stockdale** (GBR) & **Ebanking**

Joseph Stockdale (GBR) secured third with Ebanking on three time penalties.

Having ridden a double clear in the Longines League of Nations™ on Friday night and again today, at the post-competition press conference, Luciana Diniz spoke emotionally about her victory and her partnership with 17-year-old Vertigo du Desert:

“I’m just so delighted and grateful to have a horse like this. He’s 17 years old and he’s not only my horse; he’s my best friend. I had one time fault today in the first round and thought about many years ago, at the Olympic Games, I had one time fault. If I had let myself think about it, it might have affected my performance. So, I just changed my inner dialogue and imagined I would be on the podium. I rode with gratitude and believe that when everything comes together like this, it feels like a gift. I had the option to either go to Doha or come to Abu Dhabi and I’m so happy I chose to come here. The universe delivered.”

When asked about four days of amazing jumping, Mohammed Al Nakhi, Manager of the Show Jumping Committee of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation went on to thank the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club for hosting the event for the first time. He added that it provided the best atmosphere and facilities for the horses, riders and support teams. He also noted that Luciana was one of the best performing combinations and thanked her for choosing to compete in Abu Dhabi.