LYON, France, Nov. 1, 2024–Isabell Werth rode DSP Quantaz to victory in the World Cup Grand Prix Freestyle Friday in the German rider’s quest for a sixth title.
Isabell and the 14-year-old German Sport Horse gelding scored 84.740% for the win in the rider’s 26th year competing in the World Cup series with a record of five titles.
Isabell, the most decorated equestrian in Olympic history and current world No. 1 rider, described Quantaz’s performance as “super, super,” especially after a man ran in front of lights momentarily startling the horse during the ride that was her first this World Cup season.
Reigning World Cup champion Patrik Kittel of Sweden on the 12-year-old Touchdown, his 2024 Paris Olympic mount, was runner-up on 81.975%, the same placing as in the Grand Prix.
Pauline Basquin of France on the 14-year-old Sertorius de Rima Z IFCE placed third on a second straight personal best score, 81.915%, just 0.060 behind Patrik.
The rider is adored by her French fans, as she was at the Paris Games, receiving an enthusiastic standing ovation when she completed the musical performance.
Stuttgart, Germany Nov. 13-17 is the next Western European qualifier for the Final to be staged in Base;l, Switzerland next April.
Results:
