At the age of 86, German legend Manfred ’Manni’ Kötter passed away on the 4th of February 2023. Kötter was one of Germany’s most renowned trainers – with his main focus on flat work – and has had a huge impact on many top riders’ careers. Daniel Deusser, Marco Kutscher, Franke Sloothaak, and the entire team at Ludger Beerbaum’s stable are just some of the riders who have benefited from Kötter’s knowledge and experience over the years.  

“Once successful in the showjumping saddle, Manni Kötter was above all a real legend as a showjumping trainer, where the basic dressage work always was the most important for him. For years, he worked as an instructor for Paul Schockemöhle and also trained the eventing students in Warendorf – amongst others,” the German Equestrian Federation stated on their website. 

“Manni Kötter was a horseman and expert of the classic school, who influenced many squad riders,” German Chef d’Equipe Otto Becker said.  

Our sincere condolences go out to Kötter's family and friends.