The highlight of the event, the Rolex Grand Prix, will return to the Aachen Soers showgrounds on Sunday 19 September, and promises a spectacular display of equestrianism as the world’s best horse and rider combinations vie for top honours.

The relationship between Rolex and CHIO Aachen, one of the most respected and celebrated horse shows in the international calendar, was established in 1999, underlining the Swiss watch manufacturer’s unwavering commitment to the sport that dates back more than 60 years.

ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF SHOW JUMPING

The brand has long-standing partnerships with all four Majors that comprise the coveted Rolex Grand Slam prize, namely The Dutch Masters, CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’, CHIO Aachen and CHI Geneva. Initiated in 2013, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping rewards a rider who wins three consecutive Majors, a feat requiring a sustained display of precision and excellence that to date has been achieved by only one athlete, Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash in 2015.

After an impressive victory at CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’, Guerdat travels to CHIO Aachen to continue his quest as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender.

THE ROLEX FAMILY OF TESTIMONEES

A strong roster of Rolex Testimonees will be competing against Guerdat for the Rolex Grand Prix title, which will be contested over a course set by world-renowned designer Frank Rothenberger. Great Britain’s Scott Brash, ranked No. 4 in the world, will lead the way as a former winner of the esteemed competition, with an understanding of the accuracy, bravery and athleticism required to secure victory. Looking ahead to the 2021 edition, Brash said:

“My victory at CHIO Aachen in 2015 was a historic moment in my career and an achievement that I will be doing my very best to repeat. The Rolex Grand Prix at Aachen is one that every rider wants to win and being part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping makes it even more special.”

Among those looking to challenge Brash will be fellow Testimonee Martin Fuchs, the current world No. 3 and recent European Championship individual silver medallist. They will be joined by France’s Kevin Staut, a member of the gold medal-winning team at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, and Ireland’s Bertram Allen, one of the youngest Rolex Testimonees on the show jumping circuit, who will be looking to his more seasoned counterparts for inspiration as he aims to secure his status among the best in the world.

Show Jumping is one of five FEI equestrian disciplines hosted at CHIO Aachen, and Britain’s Eventing champion, Zara Tindall returns to the scene of her 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games^TM success, where she won individual gold and team silver. Tindall, who in 2021 celebrates her fifteenth year as a Rolex Testimonee, will be taking part in the CCIO4* Eventing on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 September.

Competing in the CDIO5* Dressage will be Isabell Werth, fresh from her success at Tokyo 2020, where she claimed a seventh Olympic gold medal with victory in the team event, having earlier taken individual silver. A Rolex Testimonee since 2009, Werth is the world’s most decorated dressage rider but her dedication to the sport remains undimmed as she continues to strive for perpetual excellence.