INSIDE THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF SHOW JUMPING: THE DUTCH MASTERS HIGHLIGHTS 2025

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping returns to the medieval city of ’s-Hertogenbosch from March 13 – 16, marking the first Major of the calendar year. With Dutch rider Harrie Smolders as the current live contender, the passionate home crowd is set for an electrifying show, featuring not only world-class equestrian sport but also a sensational lifestyle village where spectators can indulge in everything from clothing to cars.

For the first time, the opening day will feature international jumping, with the highlight coming from the newly introduced HeadFirst Group Prize – Best of Champions class. This unique competition is inspired by the former format of the World Equestrian Games, where the world’s best riders swap horses. A must-see event, the class will feature current FEI World champion Henrik von Eckermann, FEI European individual silver medallist Philipp Weishaupt, individual Olympic bronze medallist Maikel van der Vleuten, and Dutch champion Willem Greve, who will exchange horses and compete over a challenging 1.45m/1.50m course in a true test of horsemanship and skill. The competition will be hosted by the newly appointed Sport Director of the show, Rolex Testimonee Jeroen Dubbeldam. Throughout the class, Dubbeldam will explain the concept to the audience and engage in conversations with the riders, discussing their horses and performances.

The show also boasts world-class dressage, featuring the sport’s finest athletes, including last year’s victor, Isabell Werth. The Rolex Testimonee is the most decorated dressage rider in history and, at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, added a team gold and individual silver to her already impressive list of achievements. However, she will face tough competition from Britain’s Charlotte Fry, who has claimed two FEI World Cup™ Qualifiers this season, along with last year’s FEI World Cup™ Final victor, Patrik Kittel. The Dutch Masters provides the final opportunity to score points for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final, taking place in April in Basel, Switzerland, and thus competition is set to be fierce.

The event will also see the return of the Slam Show – launched at the CHIO Aachen in 2024. This exciting programme provides exclusive insights into each Major, featuring interviews with world-class riders, grooms, and organizers. The show is divided into four sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, offering fans exclusive access to the individuals who contribute to the sport’s ultimate prize, while also providing insights into the different Majors. This edition will be hosted by Jeroen Dubbeldam, who brings a unique perspective, having competed in the Majors themselves.

The Rolex Grand Prix, the pinnacle event of the show, takes centre stage on the final day. As a true test of skill, determination, and athleticism, this prestigious class is one every rider dreams of winning. Last year’s champion, Dutch Olympian Willem Greve, will be aiming to defend his title against an elite field of competitors. Meanwhile, current live contender Harrie Smolders will be looking to claim his home Major for the first time, as he aspires to replicate Scott Brash’s historic achievement of winning three Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors consecutively to secure the sport’s ultimate prize.