Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk Rock Pratoni Dressage Test

World’s Number One Conquers First Phase at Eventing Worlds

Sensational round keeps Michael Jung in title contention

Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH laid down an imperious dressage test at the FEI Eventing World Championships in Pratoni del Vivaro, Italy, on Wednesday (14 September) to take a commanding lead after the first phase.

The German rider, who is aiming to win a record-breaking fourth individual world title, produced a flawless performance with the 12-year-old gelding to score 20.90 penalties. This puts them 2.7 penalties ahead of their nearest rivals, Australia’s Shane Rose and Virgil.

Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH have been in sensational form this season, winning the prestigious Luhmühlen Horse Trials in June and finishing second at the Tokyo Olympics last year. They are now the clear favorites to win the world title in Pratoni.

“I am very happy with FischerChipmunk today,” said Jung. “He felt great in the warm-up and he was very focused in the ring. I think he is getting better and better all the time.”

The dressage phase of the competition continues on Thursday (15 September), with the cross-country phase taking place on Saturday (17 September) and the showjumping finale on Sunday (18 September).