Whitaker Wins! Robert Races Away in the €80,000 AJ Produkter Prize

By Jumper News on 2026-02-22

Gothenburg, Sweden – February 19, 2026 – The first international class of the 2026 Gothenburg Horse Show CSI 5*-W took place last Thursday and after a jump-off between nine riders, Robert Whitaker (GBR) was declared the winner.Robert Whitaker had already won the international opening class in 2020, then on Catwalk IV. This year, it was on Vermento‘s back that Robert claimed top honors.

The class was held with obstacles set at 1.50 meters and three Swedes had advanced to the tiebreaker, of which the newly-acquired citizen Thomas Ryan (SWE) was the best, finishing in second place with Jezebeau BC. The placement is Ryan’s first podium place in international classes at the event.

The third-fastest clean performance of the contest was achieved by Eiken Sato (JPN) and Campai 3, securing bronze honors in 38.94 seconds.

Winner’s Circle – Robert Whitaker (GBR)

There weren’t many clear today and my dad (John) warned me about obstacle number four, a railing, so I was a bit careful there, said Robert. Vermento, who is a big horse, tackled the jump-off in a fantastic way. “Despite his size, he saw the turn quickly. It is a versatile horse that is suitable both outdoors and indoors. He’s a lovely horse, said Robert.

Final Results – €80,000 AJ Produkter Prize CSI 5*-W

1) Robert Whitaker (GBR) & Equine America Vermento – 0 / 0 – 34.94

2) Thomas Ryan (SWE) & Jezebeau BC – 0 / 0 – 35.73

3) Eiken Sato (JPN) & Campai 3 – 0 / 0 – 38.94

FULL RESULTS

Source: Press Release (translated & edited) from Gothenburg Horse Show