Belgian Dominance in Italy: Jerome Guery Secures Five-Star Victory in Versilia

The Italian show jumping circuit is currently witnessing a Belgian surge, led by a commanding performance from Jerome Guery. In a display of precision and form, Guery captured a prestigious victory within the five-star competition in Versilia, further cementing his reputation as a rider who thrives on Italian soil.

For those following the international circuit, a “five-star” (CSI5*) designation represents the pinnacle of the sport, featuring the highest prize money, the most challenging courses and the world’s elite riders. Guery’s win is not merely a personal milestone but a signal of the current strength of the Belgian equestrian program on the global stage.

A Belgian Sweep in Versilia

While Guery claimed the top spot, the success in Versilia extended well beyond a single rider. The Belgian contingent made an overwhelming impression during the 1m55 qualification round, effectively turning the podium into a national showcase. Phenyo, riding for Keysersbos, secured the silver medal, while Pieter Devos claimed the bronze.

The depth of the Belgian presence was further highlighted by several other Belgian-bred horses placing within the top ten of the 1m55 qualification. This collective performance underscores a systemic excellence in both riding talent and breeding within Belgium, as multiple athletes managed to navigate the technical demands of the Versilia course.

To put this in perspective for the casual observer, the 1m55 height is a standard for high-level international competition, requiring extreme athleticism from the horse and split-second decision-making from the rider. Seeing three Belgians occupy the podium in such a competitive field is a rare feat that speaks to the current peaking of their form.

The Italian Streak: From Versilia to Montefalco

Guery’s success is part of a broader trend of Belgian riders finding a “fruitful soil” in Italy this season. The momentum isn’t limited to Versilia. other Belgian stars are mirroring this success in different regions of the country.

In Montefalco, Dries Dekkers has emerged as another key figure in the Belgian campaign. Records show that Dekkers secured two top rankings during the second week of competition in Montefalco, proving that the Belgian dominance is a nationwide phenomenon across Italy rather than an isolated success at a single venue.

This regional success is critical for riders looking to climb the world rankings. Consistent placements in CSI5* events provide the necessary points to secure favorable seedings for major championships and Olympic qualifiers.

Technical Breakdown: Why This Matters

Winning at the five-star level requires more than just raw talent; it requires a synergy between the horse’s scope and the rider’s strategy. Guery’s ability to repeatedly collect top rankings in Italy suggests a strong adaptation to the specific course-design styles often found in Italian competitions, which frequently emphasize agility and tight turns.

The fact that Belgian breeding products are also filling the top ten suggests that the “Belgian style” of horse—known for a balance of power and temperament—is currently well-suited for the European summer circuit.

As the circuit moves forward, the focus will shift to whether Guery and his compatriots can translate this Italian momentum into success at the upcoming major championships. For now, the Belgian flag flies high over the Italian arenas.

For the latest official results and updates on the jumping circuit, follow the reports via Horseman.

Next Checkpoint: The equestrian community awaits the final standings of the current Italian tour and the announcement of the next CSI5* venue schedules for the summer season.

Do you think the Belgian squad is currently the strongest in Europe? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.