Switzerland's Martin Fuchs and the incredible Leone Jei jumped to a back-to-back victory in Sunday's CSIO5* 1.60m 2,215,000.00 USD CPKC ‘International’ Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, at the 2024-edition of the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’. The event hosted the third Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the calendar year, known as one of the toughest Grand Prix classes in the sport.

With a double clear round, and then a rail down in a three-way jump-off, Fuchs and the 12-year-old gelding retained their title after also topping this Grand Prix in 2023. 

Speaking on his win, Fuchs stated: “To be honest, I am a little bit shocked and surprised to win – you don’t expect to win when you have two of the best riders behind you. Today really was my day, and so I am very happy. It was hard to be the first into the jump-off; the wait was incredibly nerve-wracking!”

The Swiss rider continued: “Leone Jei is an incredible horse, and he has such an amazing jump. He always performs so well in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors – he is an unreal partner to have. The courses that we jump here are some of the toughest in the world; they really challenge the riders and the horses. You need to be 100% focused and confident, as well as have the courage to jump these impressive fences to be able to win here. I love coming here – it is a very special place to me.”

As the new Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender, Fuchs can now look forward to CHI Geneva on home soil in December. 

And with this photo special, we celebrate another career highlight for Fuchs and Leone Jei, as well as Fuchs' long-time groom Sean Vard!

All photos © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping. No reproduction of any of the content in this article will be accepted without a written permission, all rights reserved © World of Showjumping.com. If copyright violations occur, a penalty fee will apply.