After eight years under the Ukrainian flag, Cassio Rivetti has decided to go back to represent his home country Brazil.

“I am really happy and excited about this new chapter,” says Rivetti to World of Showjumping. “It was a great experience to represent Ukraine and together with my team mates we accomplished a lot. However, the Brazilian Equestrian Federation has offered the chance to be part of a new project for future competitions and there is no doubt for me that I have to seize this opportunity. I believe this is the right moment to return to represent Brazil, so the change will be done with immediate effect and the papers have already been handed over to the FEI.”

After two Olympic Games, two World Championships and two European Championships for Team Ukraine, Rivetti also puts an end to his co-operation with Ukraine’s Alexander Onisnchenko to instead focus on developing existing and new collaborations with different horse owners. “I would like to thank Mr. Onischenko for the opportunities he gave me,” Rivetti adds.

In his stables, Rivetti has some very exciting horses for the future that he looks forward to developing for the top sport for their respective owners. “I have the 9-year-old Torgal de Virton that I have developed to five-star Grand Prix level, and then there are the two 8-years-olds Ulahop Boy and Ut Majeur de Brecey that I have high hopes for. I believe both of these two will step up to jump the big Grand Prix competitions next year when they are 9. With the current change of situation, I of course also hope to expand my group of owners and welcome new ones,” Cassio says.

Rivetti is currently on the road to recovery after breaking his leg in a fall during the Grand Prix in Brussels two weeks ago, and says the doctors expect him to be back in the saddle in approximately three months – “but, then it will be under the Brazilian flag and that is something I am very much looking forward to,” Rivetti finishes off.

Text © World of Showjumping // Picture © Jenny Abrahamsson