5 things to know about the Monte-Carlo Jumping which starts this Thursday

The Jumping International de Monte-Carlo is one of the 15 stages of the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour, the most competitive show jumping championship on the planet. Every point counts in the hope of securing a ticket to the final scheduled for November 20-23 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco, with its €1.5 million prize fund, attracts the world's best riders. This year again, the dense field promises an intense battle on the Rock.

2. Several favorites including Simon Delestre

On the sporting side, all eyes will be on Henrik von Eckermann. The Swede, currently ranked number 3 in the world, has chosen Monaco to make his comeback. Joining him are Dutchmen Harrie Smolders, winner of the Cannes stage on June 8, and Maikel van der Vleuten, Briton John Whitaker, Belgian Gilles Thomas, and Frenchman Simon Delestre. All will be aiming for victory on the Port Hercule track, renowned for its unique atmosphere and tight bends.

3. Three former winners at the start

It's a first: the last three Grand Prix winners will be reunited. Austria's Max Kühner (2022), France's Julien Epaillard (2023), and France's Inès Joly (2024) will attempt to become the first rider to add their name to the prize list for a second time. The stakes are high in an event where the technical demands leave little room for error.

4. Three Monegasques in the running at home

This edition also marks a local turning point: three riders will represent Monaco in the CSI5 ¹ , a first at this level. Ilaria Sutera, based in Normandy, will participate in her very first 5-star with Flambeau: " It's a childhood dream . I still remember, when I was little, I came to the Jumping with my parents, " she confides. The 29-year-old Monegasque intends to " savor every moment " at home. Inigo Lopez de la Osa Franco and Anastasia Nielsen complete the red and white delegation. Former Olympic champion Philippe Rosier, national coach of the Monaco team, will also be there but under the blue-white-red flag.

5. A rhythmic program

Launched in 2006, the Monte-Carlo Jumping is a strategic and symbolic event. Each of the three days will begin at 9 a.m. with the CSI2 and National competitions, before the main competitions begin in the early evening. The Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco, on Saturday starting at 8:15 p.m., will conclude the event in style.

CSIO5 (Official International Show Jumping) is the highest level of show jumping in the equestrian world. Events are ranked according to a star rating system, ranging from 1 (entry level for international competition) to 5 (elite level). AYMeRIC PEZE