ROAD TO ROLEX IJRC TOP 10 FINAL: Christian KUKUK

CHRISTIAN KUKUK (GER) - 4 March 1990 -

Christian Kukuk, the reigning Olympic champion, makes a debut in style among the riders of the Rolex IJRC Top Ten Final 2024. Last year he and Checker 47 were the protagonists of an excellent third place in the Rolex Grand Prix of the CHI in Geneva. And it was precisely this performance that made him realise that he was going to choose Checker 47 for the Olympic Games.

As a teenager, Christian's dream was to become a professional football player, but life had other plans for him.

His parents' passion brought him closer to the highest levels of equestrianism. As a son of horse-riding enthusiasts, from a very young age he started to travel with his father to various competitions. This instilled in him a passion for the equestrian world, particularly show jumping, and his talent for horses was immediately clear.

After completing his studies, Christian moved to Riesenbeck and joined the Beerbaum team.

One of Christian's strengths is his ability to work with different types of horses. His tireless work ethic has earned him many successes and the respect of his colleagues.

From the 'Goldene Reitabzeichen' title he won in Germany in 2015 to the Olympic gold medal in Paris, it was a short but memorable journey, enriched by many successes such as the silver medal at the European Championships in Riesenbeck in 2021 with Mumbai and the Rolex GP CSI5* in the Wellington Final in 2024 with Checker 47.

Kukuk with Checker Photo Credit FEI Benjamin Clark

Which horse will you ride in the top ten and why?

« ⁠I will ride Checker 47 in the Rolex IJRC Top Ten because I think I have the best chances with him».

What is the moment from last season that you carry in your heart and why?

«The Olympic Gold medal in Paris because it was the best moment in my career».

What plans do you have for 2025?

«⁠⁠I want to stay consistently in the Top 10 in 2025».

What does it mean for you to ride in the Top Ten competition?

«⁠⁠It is one of the best classes in the year and it makes me proud and excited to be part of it»