Geneva, 24 June 2025 – Steeped in prestige and tradition, the globally renowned CHIO Aachen takes place this year from 27 June to 6 July, and will showcase the very best of equestrian sport. Often likened to The Championships, Wimbledon – with both taking place on grass, and both among the most prestigious venues in their respective sports – this esteemed show, which stands as a beacon of equestrian tradition and excellence, has been partnered with Rolex since 1999.

For almost 70 years, Rolex has cultivated an enduring legacy with the equestrian world and is now a major presence alongside the finest riders, competitions and institutions. The brand’s contribution to excellence in equestrianism is based on this heritage, encouraging modernization while respecting the elegance of the sport. The partnership began in 1957 when pioneering British show jumper Pat Smythe became the sport’s first Testimonee. Rolex’s perpetual support is highlighted by its affiliation with international events and competitions that represent the pinnacle of the sport, including the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

Also known as the World Equestrian Festival, the CHIO Aachen welcomes more than 360,000 passionate spectators across 10 days of elite competition – the highest attendance of any equestrian event.  The CHIO Aachen is the second Major in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping calendar year, a global initiative created in 2013 that challenges riders to win, consecutively, the Grand Prix at three of the four Majors, namely, The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament and the CHI Geneva. To date, Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash is the only rider to have claimed this incredible feat.

The Rolex Grand Prix – the crowning point of the competition – requires riders to compete with extraordinary precision, athleticism and courage to achieve victory on this hallowed turf. This coveted class has been won by some of the most distinguished names in equestrian sport, including six Rolex Testimonees.

Among them is Daniel Deusser, the most recent to triumph, who achieved a memorable victory on his home soil in 2021. The five-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner stated: “When you win the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen, you realize that you are part of history, as the show is something very, very special. It is one of the best shows in the world, and every rider dreams of competing there – to have my name on the Hall of Fame board by the entrance to the main arena is an incredible feeling.”

Compatriot and Rolex’s newest equestrian Testimonee, Richard Vogel, added: “The CHIO Aachen is my favourite Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major. It is my home show, and the atmosphere there is very unique and special. The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen is a class that has so much prestige, and it is such an important class for our sport. Every rider dreams about winning it, and I continue to do so.”

Rolex celebrates human achievement in equestrianism, honouring a journey shaped by dedication, passion and the unwavering bond between horse and rider. Each challenge faced and every milestone reached is a testament to the skill, precision and perseverance required to succeed in this demanding discipline. Victory is not measured solely by trophies but by the path taken – one defined by emotion, trust and the pursuit of excellence. With every stride, Rolex recognizes the harmony between horse and rider, where the true triumph lies in the journey itself.

Rolex Testimonee Steve Guerdat, one of the world’s most decorated show jumping riders, exemplifies this spirit. A former World No. 1, he has claimed four Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors and in 2024 secured an individual silver medal at the Olympic Games in Paris.

The Swiss rider commented: “The Rolex Grand Slam remains the most prestigious and sought after prize in our sport, and the iconic shows define it. When travelling to The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, or the CHI Geneva, or even when entering the arena at these Majors, there is a rush of adrenaline and anticipation. As a rider, you want to be at your best when you are competing and attending the Majors. The prestige of winning the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping truly adds to one’s motivation and competitive spirit, and the CHIO Aachen is the pinnacle of our sport so winning there is highly sought after by every rider.”

This year, Guerdat will be looking to add a victory in the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen to his stellar list of achievements – a feat that would be even more extraordinary given the injury challenges he has had to overcome in 2025. Should he succeed, his achievement will be celebrated during the iconic white handkerchief ceremony – a poignant tradition that brings the event to a close each year, honouring the unique bond between riders, horses and fans.