BADMINTON 2025: Early Days, High Hopes
We’re still early into the 2025 season, but spirits are already high and the excitement is building. As with any major event, the MARS Badminton Horse Trials promises unpredictability—and in the words of the NFL, “on any given Sunday”, anything can happen.
The stage is set for another thrilling edition of one of the sport’s most iconic 5* events. Here’s a closer look at some of the riders and horses we expect to be in serious contention for this year’s coveted title.
Caroline Powell (NZL)
The last rider to win back-to-back at Badminton was Pippa Funnell in 2002/2003 aboard the legendary Supreme Rock. Could Caroline Powell be poised to replicate that rare feat? Her 2024 winner, Greenacres Special Cavalier (“Cav”), is coming into Badminton looking in stellar form. Powell also brings High Time, who made a confident 5* debut at Les Étoiles de Pau last season.
Ros Canter (GBR)
A name that carries serious weight in the sport, Ros and Lordships Graffalo (aka “Walter”) have built a dream résumé – Badminton champions in 2023, Olympic team gold medallists in Paris 2024, and winners of the 2024 Defender Burghley Horse Trials. When this pair is on form, there are few that can challenge their dominance.
Oliver Townend (GBR)
A perennial favourite, Oliver returns with Ballaghmor Class, his steely grey superstar who needs no introduction. He’s also introducing Cooley Rosalent to Badminton – a mare who already has a 5* win to her name at Lexington 2024. It’s hard to bet against Oliver with this kind of firepower.
Harry Meade (GBR)
Currently ranked FEI World #3, Meade is coming off a strong Lexington campaign (third with Et Hop du Matz, fourth with Grafennacht). He’ll bring Cavalier Crystal, who was on the Burghley podium last autumn, and Superstition, a talented campaigner making his fifth 5* start. Things are aligning for a big performance.
David Doel (GBR)
With Galileo Nieuwmoed, it feels like it’s just a matter of time. Consistently flashy and impeccably prepared, the pair keep knocking on the door of greatness. Many fans (and fellow riders) are hoping this is the year they break through for a major 5* title.
Bubby Upton (GBR)
Few stories are as emotional or inspiring. After a devastating injury threatened her career, Bubby’s return to Badminton in 2024, finishing in the top ten, was a triumph. With Cola, she has now completed three consecutive Badminton campaigns and is edging ever closer to the podium.
Lara de Liedekerke-Meier (BEL)
Belgium’s top-ranked rider has been in sublime form. In 2024, she took her first 5* victory at Luhmühlen aboard her homebred mare Hooney d’Arville, and later represented Belgium at the Paris Olympics (with Origi). Now ranked FEI #10, Lara brings talent, experience, and momentum to her Badminton charge.
Tom McEwen (GBR)
Tom has two strong contenders this year. With JL Dublin, he has secured second place at Lexington 5* and was part of the Olympic gold-winning team at Paris 2024. Making his Badminton debut is Brookfield Quality, who placed third at Pau. McEwen’s best result here so far is fourth (2023, Toledo de Kerser), and he’s more than capable of going one better.
Austin O’Connor (IRL)
Since finishing third at Badminton in 2023, Austin and fan-favourite Colorado Blue (“Salty”) have kept the momentum rolling with a 5* win at Elkton and a strong showing at the Paris Olympics. The Irish camp is looking strong, and they head into Badminton in solid form.
Tim Price (NZL)
Two-time 5* winner and ever-consistent, Tim brings Vitali, who has six 5* completions, all in the top ten, and Viscount Viktor, a debutant at Badminton but with 5* mileage from Pau, Luhmühlen, and Burghley. If the jumping phase continues to improve for Vitali, they’ll be right in the hunt.
Gemma Stevens (GBR)
Gemma has had a sparkling winter season, taking top honours in the six-bar at the London International and again in Hong Kong. She returns with Chilli Knight and Jalapeño, both have previous Badminton completions. Don’t let her show-jumping success distract from her cross-country prowess, Gemma’s a real contender.
ONES TO WATCH
Jérôme Robiné (GER)
German rider Jérôme Robiné, 27, will make his Badminton debut this year. Based in Warendorf, Robiné enters with his mount Black Ice, a partnership that has shown consistent success on the international stage. In 2023, the pair finished seventh at the European Championships in France and secured third place in the CCI4*-L at Blenheim. They also achieved a top-ten finish in the CCI5* at Luhmühlen the same year.
Ben Hobday (GBR)
One of the sport’s most beloved figures, Ben gave us one of eventing’s most emotional moments when he and Mulrys Error returned to compete after his cancer remission. This year, he is back with Shadow Man, who helped Australia secure Olympic silver with Chris Burton. Expect a hero’s welcome.
Alice Casburn (GBR)
Only 23, but already a seasoned Badminton competitor. This will be Alice’s fourth consecutive outing with her veteran Topspin, now 18. Consistent and composed, this duo continues to impress.
Emily King (GBR)
Emily’s 2024 Badminton performance (fourth with Valmy Biats) was a breakthrough. They return aiming to build on that success, and with three completions under their belt, they are well prepared to challenge again.
Alex Bragg (GBR)
Achieved a career highlight with third at Badminton in 2024 on Quindiva. He now brings Ardeo Premier for their first Badminton together. With 5* completions at Pau and Luhmühlen already, they have the miles and the confidence to make their mark.
Wills Oakden (GBR)
Making his fourth appearance at Badminton, Wills had a strong showing last year (twelfth with Arklow Puissance). He rides A Class Cooley (aka “Felix”), who’s highly rated by Wills and his team. A top ten breakthrough is well within reach.
POM POMS AT THE READY
We’re neutral. Honestly. But we’ll be cheering a little louder for Tom Crisp (GBR), a true national treasure with a flair for entertainment and a love of cross-discipline surprises. Good luck, Tom, we’re all behind you.
Let the countdown begin.
With riders from across the globe, Olympic medallists, comeback stories, and rising stars all converging at Badminton, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and compelling editions in recent memory.
Stay tuned—this one’s going to be special.
