FEI Dressage European Championship and Longines FEI Jumping European Championship under the patronage of Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

The President of the European Commission, Dr. Ursula von der Leyen will assume patronage of the Longines FEI Jumping European Championship Riesenbeck 2021 and FEI Dressage European Championship Hagen 2021.

Equestrian sport has long held a firm place in the heart of the EU President and is of great importance to the passionate dressage rider. Perhaps, Dr. von der Leyen is the most high profile of all equestrian figures in the political scene. Since 2012, she has also been patron of the charity initiative "Riding against Hunger", which was established by Ullrich Kasselmann and Gudrun Bauer (Bauer Media) and raises funds in the equestrian world for the benefit of World Hunger Relief through various charity campaigns.

"The love of horses and equestrian sport unites people in Europe across regions, languages and customs. That is why it is a great pleasure for me to take over the patronage for this championship, which is special in times of the Corana pandemic," says Dr von der Leyen. "I wish riders and horses a safe, successful championship and great competition; may the best win!”

"We are very pleased that Ursula von der Leyen is accepting the patronage for both championships," says organiser Ullrich Kasselmann. "Her great enthusiasm and passion for the development of our sport make her an excellent ambassador."

Ludger Beerbaum is certain: "The patronage for these special events could not have been more European. Ursula von der Leyen's commitment underlines the international significance of both tournaments and the importance of equestrian sport in the region in equal measure."

Press Release