CHIO Aachen 2025 will live long in the memory as a watershed moment in equestrian sports. With more than 360,000 spectators packing the stands during the event and a total of 1,000 horses participating, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation on the final day as fans gathered to witness every thrilling moment of the premier show-jumping competition. And when the winner rode clear, securing an unmatched spot in the sporting annals, it was to rapturous applause.

Every summer, the spa city of Aachen in western Germany emerges as the undisputed capital of the equestrian world. Concours Hippique International Officiel (CHIO) Aachen is rightly hailed as the World Equestrian Festival – the ultimate test of horsemanship, the apex of modern athletic performance. Comprising tests in the sport’s five disciplines – show jumping, dressage, eventing, four-in-hand driving and vaulting – it represents more than just medals and prize money; it stands as a living celebration of the centuries-old bond between humans and horses, refined to its most competitive form.

Aachen’s historic Soers equestrian facility, with its iconic main arena, plays host to what many consider the most challenging annual event in show jumping. Rolex, a long-time supporter of equestrianism, has served as the main sponsor of CHIO Aachen since 1999, and in 2013, it united the most prestigious global jumping competitions as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. Everywhere one looks at Aachen, from the VIP lounges to the rider warm-up areas, the Rolex crown symbol stands as a quiet promise of the precision synonymous with both top-tier watchmaking and equestrian sports.

Jump Feat

Unfolding over 6 July 2025, the Grand Prix of Aachen climaxed with Swiss rider and Rolex Testimonee Martin Fuchs cementing his legacy among the all-time greats. Partnered with his remarkable grey gelding, Leone Jei, Fuchs delivered what commentators saluted as “the round of his life” to claim victory. In doing so, he clocked up an unprecedented fifth Rolex Grand Slam Major victory, shattering the previous record and establishing a new standard for excellence in jumping’s modern era.

The emotion was palpable as Fuchs stood in the winner’s circle and reflected on his achievement. “To win here in Aachen, at this event that means so much to every rider, with this horse who has given me everything – it’s impossible to describe,” he remarked, his voice thick with emotion. The 33-year-old rider highlighted the unique nature of the CHIO Aachen Grand Prix, calling it “the ultimate test” where both horse and rider must be at their absolute peak.

His admiration for Leone Jei resonated deeply: “He’s not just an athlete; he’s a partner. When we enter that arena, we become one – his instincts and my directions blend perfectly. Today, he was flawless.”

Fuchs’ victory came against what many deemed the strongest field in recent memory, featuring six other Rolex Testimonees. Course designer Frank Rothenberger had crafted a track that tested every facet of horsemanship – technical precision, boldness, stamina and the unspoken communication between rider and mount. Fuchs and Leone Jei were the only pair to achieve the coveted treble-clear (three consecutive faultless rounds), a feat made all the more impressive by the increasingly difficult jump-off course, where the Swiss star shaved crucial seconds off his time with daring manoeuvres.

Jumping for Joy

In exclusive interviews during CHIO Aachen, three of Rolex’s most accomplished show-jumping testimonees provided insights into what makes the event so special and how the sport has evolved. The highly decorated American-born German rider, Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, recalled her first Rolex watch won at a junior event: “That moment made me dream of being part of the Rolex family. There’s an unspoken standard that comes with that relationship – a commitment to always striving for better.”

Germany’s Daniel Deusser, the 2021 Aachen champion, captured the event’s unique atmosphere. “When you ride into that main arena, you feel the history,” he said. “The crowd understands every subtlety of the sport. It pushes you to be your best.” Fellow German equestrian Richard Vogel illuminated the technical evolution of show-jumping courses. “The jumps today demand more scope; the turns require better adjustability,” he noted, adding: “Horses are true athletes now – we train them differently and care for them differently than even a decade ago.”

All three riders emphasised the profound partnership that lies at the core of the sport. “It’s a language without words,” explained Michaels-Beerbaum. “A shift in balance, a slight leg pressure – conversations happening every second.”

Scaling Fences

Fuchs’ historic triumph spotlighted the perfect execution of modern show-jumping strategy. The first-round course featured 13 obstacles, including a triple combination of jumps that challenged some of the top riders. Fuchs and Leone Jei approached each fence with a methodical rhythm, their strides impeccably measured to meet each take-off point.

The true drama unfolded during the jump-off between six competitors with clear rounds. Fuchs opted for an inside turn, saving precious time. His approach to the final vertical was particularly bold, taking Leone Jei at an angle that required absolute trust between horse and rider. When they cleared it with inches to spare, the crowd erupted in recognition of a truly special moment.

No Aachen victory is complete without the event’s most moving tradition. As Fuchs completed his lap of honour, spectators raised white handkerchiefs in unison – a fluttering tribute to an exceptional performance. This gesture, unique to CHIO Aachen, embodies the ultimate show of respect in equestrian circles. Rolex has proudly supported this tradition since becoming the title sponsor, recognising how it encapsulates the dignity and sportsmanship of the event.

Equestrian Support

Rolex’s allegiance to equestrianism is among the longest-running sponsorships in sporting history. The luxury watchmaker’s connection to show jumping dates back to 1957, when Pat Smythe became its first equestrian testimonee. This partnership laid the groundwork for Rolex to align with the sport’s most accomplished riders while supporting its premier events.

The creation of the Rolex Grand Slam in 2013 marked a pivotal moment for the sport. By linking four of the most renowned tournaments – CHIO Aachen in Germany; the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ in Calgary, Canada; Switzerland’s CHI (Concours Hippique International) Geneva, and The Dutch Masters held in ’s-Hertogenbosch – under one banner, Rolex created what many regard as the ultimate challenge in jumping. The difficulty of winning three consecutive Majors is evident from history: only Scotland’s Scott Brash has achieved it in 2015, despite a decade of the world’s best riders attempting to replicate his feat.

Beyond sponsorship, Rolex’s involvement represents a 70-year commitment to the sport’s growth. From supporting youth development programmes to advancing equine welfare research, the brand has significantly shaped the evolution of show jumping while preserving its core essence. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with Rolex’s approach to watchmaking: honouring tradition while embracing innovation.

Next Masters

After Martin Fuchs’ record-setting win in Aachen, attention turns to those who might challenge his dominance. The two remaining Grand Slam Majors of 2025 – the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ this month and CHI Geneva in December – promise intense competition, with youthful Briton Harry Charles and Sweden’s Peder Fredricson eager to claim their first victories. Meanwhile, discussions ignite regarding whether any rider can match – or surpass – Fuchs’ five Major wins.

CHIO Aachen 2025 will undoubtedly be remembered as the moment Fuchs entered the pantheon of equestrian greats. His fifth Rolex Grand Slam Major victory sets a benchmark that may endure for generations. More than a singular performance, this event reaffirmed why this competition – and the Rolex partnership that supports it – represents the absolute pinnacle of the sport, showcasing the passion, dedication and unparalleled bond between horse and rider that defines the world of equestrianism.

As the equine athletes trot out in Calgary from 3-7 September, and legions of fervent spectators sit on the edge of their seats, two things are clear: in equestrianism, as in watchmaking, true excellence is timeless, and the legacy of 2025 will inspire generations to come.