The first competition of the 2025 series of the League of Nations, in which the top 10 ranked nations compete, is in Abu Dhabi (UAE) from Feb.11-15.
Henrik von Eckermann on King Edward at the 2024 Final in Barcelona (Photo by the FEIThe FEI will release a recap of each of the 10 nations prior to the first competition.
Sweden qualified in ninth place with 10,654 points, with their goal being “To win as much as possible with the best horse-rider combinations, presented in a good way to always put the horse first,” according to Swedish chef d’equipe since 2016, Henrik Ankarcrona.
Sweden's victories include the 2020 Olympic Championship, team gold at the FEI Jumping World Championship 2022 in Herning, Denmark, and he gold medal at the FEI Jumping European Championship 2023 in Milan, Italy.
Ankarcrona described Sweden's experience as invaluable for the athletes, with events being superbly run and organized.
“It is hard to choose one highlight from the season because every leg was fantastic and showcased top-quality sport, but one was our podium finish in the Final in Barcelona, where we came third,” he said. “Perhaps the real highlight, though, is that the team learned a lot over the 2024 series, which means we will be aiming for more podiums in 2025.”
"FROM GROOMS to riders to support staff, each and every individual plays a critical role to the performance. If everyone brings their A-game and the best version of themselves on the day, we will have a good run for the podium again,” he said.
“We are always mindful of integrating new talent at the right time and place to align with our long-term vision for the sport,” Ankarcrona said. “Having that bigger vision is essential to keep on track, but we also aim to perform well on the day – this presents the ultimate balancing act for both immediate and sustainable success.”
With riders like Henrik Von Eckermann, world number one and leading the FEI Jumping rankings for an astonishing 28 consecutive months with 3,435 points, Sweden brings massive enthusiasm from spectators to the series.
“Sweden always feels supported by our fans, especially when we ride in our nation’s colours, like in the Longines League of Nations™,” said Ankarcrona. “We’re also really looking forward to next season because the League is now more established and better known, so we believe even more people will be supporting and cheering for us.”
The League of Nations serves as inspiration for young equestrians in not only Sweden, but around the world.
“First, and most importantly, love your horse and put their welfare above all else," said Ankarcrona to aspiring young riders. "Second, work hard, stay driven, and learn from the best riders. Above all, listen to your horse - they are the most valuable asset in our sport.”
The League of Nations 2025 season featuring four qualifying legs and a Final kicks off in Abu Dhabi on Feb. 11, followed by leg two in Ocala, Fla., in March, with only the top eight teams making it through to the Final in Barcelona in October.
