"The CSIO Roma Piazza Di Siena is always one of my favourite events of the year," Martin Fuchs said. Photo © Rolex.
Press release from rEvolution
The world’s elite show jumpers will gather in the magnificent gardens of Villa Borghese from 26–29 May to contest the 89th edition of the CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena. Staged in the heart of the Italian capital, the five-day event will feature some of the world’s finest horse and rider combinations and culminate on the Sunday with the 5* Rolex Gran Premio. Rolex has been the Official Timekeeper since 2018.
The brand has supported equestrianism since 1957 when British show jumper Pat Symthe became its first equestrian Testimonee. In the 65 years since, the Swiss watchmaker has developed close ties with key individuals and organizations who set the highest standards of performance, helping to foster the quality and elegance inherent in the sport. Along with other esteemed competitions, it partners all four Majors – The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and the CHI Geneva – that comprise the coveted Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
The CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena is steeped in history and tradition, having first been staged at this beautiful venue in 1926. In 2018, the 18th century oval was re-grassed, returning it to its original splendour. The organizers have strived for continuous improvement, ensuring the event’s stature as one of the most revered in the equestrian calendar.
Rolex Testimonees in Rome
Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash. Photo © Rolex.
Switzerland’s World No. 2 Martin Fuchs, the highest ranked Rolex Testimonee, will be aiming to emulate his uncle Markus Fuchs, who won the Grand Prix here in 2001. He will face stiff competition from compatriot Steve Guerdat, with whom Fuchs won team gold at the 2021 FEI European Championships. Both riders won Rolex Majors last year – at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and the CHI Geneva respectively – and appreciate the horsemanship, precision and refinement required to win in Rome.
Looking ahead to the show, Fuchs said:
“The CSIO Roma Piazza Di Siena is always one of my favourite events of the year. It is so magical to compete in such an amazing setting right in the centre of the city. With it being a Rolex show you know the standard will be high and that you will face the toughest competition in the world, which always pushes riders to perform at their best.”
Bertram Allen, part of the Rolex New Guard, will be striving to become the first Irishman in 13 years to win this prestigious Grand Prix. In-form Kevin Staut, and Scott Brash, the only rider to have claimed the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, complete the roster of competing Testimonees.
Previous winners
2021 *David Will (GER), C Vier 2
2019 *Daniel Bluman (ISR), Ladriano Z
2018 *Lorenzo De Luca (ITA), Halifax van het Kluizebos
2017 Jur Vrieling (NED), VDL Glasgow vh Merelsnest
2016 McLain Ward (USA), HH Azur
2015 Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), Cantinero
2014 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Zigali P S
2013 Nick Skelton (GBR), Big Star
2012 Ludger Beerbaum (GER), Gotha FRH
2011 Eric Lamaze (CAN), Hickstead
2010 McLain Ward (USA), Sapphire
2009 Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA), HH Let’s Fly
*Denotes Rolex Grand Prix
Then