The Scandinavian Vikings Storm Vienna for Spectacular Global Champions League Victory at Schönbrunn Palace

Vienna, Austria - September 25, 2026 - There are show jumping arenas - and then there is Schönbrunn Palace. Against one of the most extraordinary backdrops in world sport, the Global Champions League (GCL)of Viennadelivered a night of high-speed, high-pressure team drama as the 2026 Championship entered its decisive final stretch.

Riders and horses made their way through the inside of the historic Schönbrunn Palace before emerging into the arena, where centuries of imperial history collided with the unmistakably modern intensity of Global Champions League (GCL). And when the pressure reached its peak, the Scandinavian Vikings found another gear.

Starting Round 2 carrying just 3 penalties, the Scandinavian Vikings produced the comeback that mattered most. Jur Vrieling (NED) opened their second-round charge aboard Glyn Slam VDL, delivering the clear in 76.92 seconds.

Then it came down to Lara Tryba (FRA) and Shot Gun. With the victory within reach, Tryba held her nerve and delivered another faultless performance in 77.94 seconds.

It was a major result for a team that arrived in Austria sitting towards the bottom of the Championship standings - and they left Schönbrunn with a maximum 30 Championship points from the stage. Riesenbeck International powered by Horse Gym took second place after another characteristically competitive performance.

Maximilian Weishaupt (GER) and Zuccero HV kept a clean sheet in Round 2, while Philipp Weishaupt (GER) and Klimister added four penalty-points, leaving the Championship leaders on 4 penalties overall. Completing the podium were Istanbul Warriors powered by Carpe Diem Equestrian Team.

Abdel Saïd (BEL) and Wathnan Calvaro and Henrik von Eckermann (SWE) with Hylanderhof's Saruschrka both jumped clear in Round 2, adding nothing to the team's eight-fault Round 1 score and securing third place. For Scandinavian Vikings, Lara Tryba (FRA) said:"I've said it before, this is my favourite LGCT of the whole year.

Just riding into the palace feels like a dream. This venue, the audience, the atmosphere - everything is so beautiful.

To come here and be the winners is truly the cherry on the cake. " Her teammate Jur Vrieling (NED) added:"I'm really proud of both my stallions today, and to come back here in Austria and perform well is very special.