The 16-year-old gelding Ladriano Z (Lawito x Baloubet du Rouet) has been retired from the sport. With Daniel Bluman (ISR) in the saddle, Ladriano Z competed at the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon (USA), the 2019 European Championships in Rotterdam (NED), the 2022 World Championships in Herning (DEN), as well as at the 2023 FEI World Cup™ Final in Omaha (USA). This summer, the two took part at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, and made their last international appearance together in Tryon (USA) two weeks ago. Among Ladriano Z's most noteable five-star Grand Prix victories was the 2019-win in the Rolex Grand Prix of Rome, as well as the 2023-win in the Longines Hampton Classic Grand Prix.

Announcing the retirement on social media, Bluman wrote:

"It is with the utmost pride that I formally announce the retirement of Ladriano Z. The Big L has had a tremendous impact on our team and family for the last 10 years. He won the Rolex Grand Prix, the Hampton Classic Grand Prix (twice), and the World Cup at the National Horse Show, among numerous other Grand Prix triumphs. In total, he recorded 14 international wins, including a remarkable 7 five-star Grand Prix victories."

"He was rated the No.1 horse in the world rankings in 2019, jumped every major championship—Olympic Games, World Championships, World Cup Finals, and European Championships—and won over $2 million in prize money," Bluman continued. "This year Ladriano turned 16, and our final goal was the Olympics in Paris, where he jumped a beautiful clear round that earned Team Israel a historic 9th place. I will forever be grateful to the Big L and grateful for co-owning and sharing so many special memories with William Schwitzer and Over the Top Stables. I must extend my sincere thanks to Camilo Robayo and Ilan Bluman, who rode him before me and always believed he would become a Champion. Thank you also to Dr. Gomez and our farriers, Chip Rankin and Drew Golden. Ladriano was lucky to have Jessica Stanek, Phoebe Leger, and Christine Kevan care and groom him during his long career! He will retire with us in New York, where he will continue to be loved by our entire team. Thank you, Big L."

At World of Showjumping, we wish Ladriano a very happy retirement!