Portugal Enters the Nations Cup CSIO 3* of Lisbon with Podium Ambitions

By Jumper News on 2026-05-22

Lisbon, Portugal – May 23, 2026 – Lisbon will host the 101st edition of the CSIO between May 21 and 24, bringing together some of the world’s top riders in one of the most prestigious show jumping competitions.

In a highly competitive field, with around 70 riders and more than 120 horses competing, this year’s edition features strong international representation, including names such as Ireland’s Michael Pender (IRL), Spain’s Eduardo Álvarez Aznar (ESP), and Brazil’s Pedro Veniss (BRA), further raising the level of competition.

The Nations Cup, taking place on Friday, once again stands out as one of the key moments of the event, with Portugal presenting a competitive team and aiming to fight for the top positions. The Portuguese team brings solid credentials. Olympic rider Duarte Seabra (POR) arrives in strong form after securing 3rd place in a 1.60m class at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Madrid, riding Dourados 2. Rodrigo Giesteira de Almeida (POR) remains one of the most consistent athletes, with recent performances in Nations Cups, including a double clear round — a decisive factor in team competitions.

Mário Wilson Fernandes (POR) adds experience to the squad, being a regular presence in the national team and providing stability on technically demanding courses. Meanwhile, Molly Hughes Bravo (POR), one of the rising stars of Portuguese equestrian sport, is enjoying an excellent run of form, having won the CSI2* Grand Prix at Quintãs Equestrian Center with the mare HHS Mercedes and secured 2nd place in a CSI3* Grand Prix the following week with HHS Tokyo, the horse she will ride in the Nations Cup in Lisbon.

In addition to the Nations Cup team members, Portugal is also represented by top riders in this 101st edition, including António Matos Almeida, Mário Prieto, Filipe Malta da Costa, Mafalda Costa Marques, and junior rider Diana Ferreira Pinto, a promising talent in equestrian sport. This highlights the depth and competitiveness of Portuguese show jumping at this year’s Al Shira’aa CSIO Lisbon.

Competing at home, and with a high-level team, Portugal has the conditions to contend for top positions in a Nations Cup traditionally marked by balance and high standards.

Beyond the Nations Cup, the Al Shira’aa CSIO Lisbon stands out as one of the most significant events in the international equestrian calendar, combining top-level sport with a strong social and institutional component. Over four days, the Portuguese capital welcomes some of the world’s best horse-and-rider combinations, offering the public a world-class spectacle and reinforcing Lisbon’s position as a leading destination for major international sporting events.

Source: Press Release by Oxersport