Gothenburg, Sweden – Maria von Essen of Sweden achieved a long-sought victory on Saturday, winning the FEI Dressage World Cup™ qualifier with her gelding Invoice, posting a personal best score of 82.645%. The win marks a triumphant moment for von Essen, who had previously finished second in both 2024 and 2025 at this prestigious event. The Scandinavium arena buzzed with energy as spectators cheered on their home favorites, witnessing a Swedish one-two finish in the competition. This victory in dressage, a discipline demanding both athleticism and artistry, is a significant step for von Essen as she aims for a spot in the World Cup Final.
The competition saw a tightly contested field, with fellow Swede Patrik Kittel finishing a close second with Touchdown, just 0.7% behind von Essen with a score of 81.920%. Denmark’s Carina Cassøe Krüth, the Grand Prix winner, secured third place with Heiline’s Danciera, adding to the international flavor of the event. The results are reshaping the standings as riders prepare for the final Western European League qualifier.
A Freestyle Performance That Resonated
Von Essen and Invoice delivered a captivating Freestyle performance set to music from the musical Les Misérables. Although the pair had shown promise in Friday’s Grand Prix, it was in the Freestyle that Invoice truly shone, demonstrating exceptional collection and precision in his movements. The expressive piaffe and passage perform, combined with perfectly timed tempi changes, captivated both the judges and the audience.
“Invoice was magical! He was magical! He was with me all the way, even though there was a huge crowd today,” an emotional von Essen shared after her win. “Also this music gives me goosebumps all the time. I almost had to cry.” The connection between horse and rider was palpable, contributing to a performance that resonated deeply with those in attendance.
Kittel’s Strong Showing and World Cup Standings
Patrik Kittel, a perennial crowd favorite, set a high standard early in the competition with his ride on Touchdown, the 2024 FEI Dressage World Cup™ winner. His score of 81.920% reflected a faultless test, skillfully choreographed to the music. While Kittel acknowledged some minor issues in the canter tour, he expressed his delight with the overall performance. “It was amazing to go in there today. I’ve ridden in Gothenburg for many years. I got a lot of applause when I came in and Touchdown got quite excited,” Kittel said. “We had modest things in the canter tour, but it was a fantastic test. It was Dressage at its best today. Dressage is alive.”
With this result, Kittel currently holds second place in the FEI Dressage World Cup™ standings, positioning him well for a potential spot in the Final.
Krüth Continues to Impress
Carina Cassøe Krüth, having already claimed victory in Friday’s Grand Prix, continued her strong form with Heiline’s Danciera, securing third place in the Freestyle. The Danish rider and her experienced mare delivered a confident and balanced performance, demonstrating their consistent partnership.
“We had some small mistakes today, so I can live with our third place,” Krüth commented. “But we are in a solid position in the World Cup standings, and if we have enough points, I will definitely go to the Final.”
Danish Riders Demonstrate Depth
The strength of Danish dressage was further highlighted by the impressive performances of Sara Aagaard Hyrm, Cecilie Dybro Jensen, and Anna Zibrandtsen, who secured fourth, fifth, and sixth places respectively. Hyrm and Atterupgaards Cooper overcame early tension to deliver a faultless performance, scoring 75.050%. Jensen and Zagori presented a tidy Freestyle, while Zibrandtsen and Quel Filou, despite a couple of errors, achieved a respectable score of 74.245%.
Looking Ahead to ’s-Hertogenbosch
The focus now shifts to ’s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, where the final Western European League qualifier will take place on March 13 and 14. This event will determine the final qualification places for the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final in Fort Worth, Texas. Riders will be vying for the coveted spots, and the competition promises to be fierce. Full results from the Gothenburg competition are available here.
The upcoming competition in ’s-Hertogenbosch will be crucial for riders hoping to secure their place at the Final, and fans can expect another thrilling display of equestrian skill and artistry. The world of dressage continues to evolve, and the next few weeks will be pivotal in determining who will compete for the ultimate title.
What did you think of Maria von Essen’s winning performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow dressage enthusiasts.
