CHIO Aachen 2025: A Defining Moment
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.”
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CHIO Aachen 2025 | Rolex and equestrianism | Newsroom
