Chef d'equipe Wout Jan van der Schans on the Longines League of Nations 2025

Despite his busy schedule—balancing his roles as chef d'equipe, member of the KWPN stallion selection committee for show jumping horses, rider, and instructor—Wout Jan enthusiastically takes the time to speak with us.

Perfect Timing

Wout Jan: “My first month as coach is done, and my first major competition, Jumping Amsterdam, is behind me. As a rider, I was always in touch with the guys, but this time, I experienced the event from a whole new perspective. I really enjoyed being there for them, helping and advising where I could. I had always thought that the role of national coach would suit me if the timing was right. I also played a role in the Rabobank talent program, which is in a similar vein and something I really enjoyed. The opportunity to become chef d'equipe came earlier than I had expected, but it wasn’t bad timing at all. I have some nice horses at the moment, but not at the highest level, so I took the chance.”

Expanding the Top Level

"My goal is to get as many combinations as possible to the World Cup Final and to achieve top results in the Longines League of Nations™️. I also want to broaden the top level so that we can field the strongest possible team at next year’s World Championship.”

Team Abu Dhabi

"Yes, the first leg of the Longines League of Nations™️ is coming up. Some of our core riders are currently competing in the World Cup circuit. Ideally, for this first qualifier, I wanted to select two experienced and two less-experienced combinations. I’ve now chosen four riders — Jur Vrieling, Leopold van Asten, Kevin Jochems, and Tani Joosten — who I believe have the right level of experience. Tani proved herself well last year, and the other three are seasoned riders with strong horses that are making their five-star debut. They’ve shown good form recently, so we’re ready to go. I believe we have a strong team. They are all capable, and I hope they will bring their experience to Abu Dhabi.”

Pride

"Every Nations Cup is special, and when you ride for your country, you give everything you have. Additionally, this Longines League of Nations™️ is financially attractive. If you get the opportunity to represent TeamNL in Rotterdam, I believe it should fill you with pride. I’ve had that privilege myself, and as an organization, CHIO Rotterdam should be truly proud to be part of this competition. It adds an extra dimension to your event.”

Strong Competition

"Unfortunately, we’ve recently lost a few talented horses. We also had to wait and see how Willem Greve’s two stallions would return, but fortunately, they’ve already proven themselves. Maikel and Kim still have their Olympic horses, we hope Harrie can continue riding Monaco, and Jur has an excellent horse. The core team is still intact, but we will have to see how things develop. I hope that more combinations will emerge who I can confidently field to compete with our established riders. The competition is fierce. Young combinations are exciting, but at a championship level, experience and handling pressure play a major role. The countries around us have a deeper talent pool to draw from in that regard.”

Typical CHIO Rotterdam

"Back to Rotterdam. I regularly read your articles, and I know it’s a cliché, but when I think of CHIO, I still think of pancake house De Big. Such a shame it’s gone. Your event attracts a different crowd compared to other competitions—what I call ‘high society’. I mean that in a positive way, as they are always deeply engaged, especially during the Nations Cup. We need these people to support our sport. And of course, the best outcome is when they become so enthusiastic that they invest in our sport—ideally by purchasing a top horse to strengthen our team. Sorry, but I also can’t help thinking about your somewhat grumpy traffic controllers. Maybe it’s just me, but they do get on my nerves.”

A Home Competition with a Strong Team

"Riding for TeamNL at home brings extra pressure. You’re competing in front of your home crowd and want to give your absolute best. But that also has its advantages—the riders are extra motivated to perform well. Riding for the team is already an honor, but doing so in your home country is even more special.”

"I can’t officially reveal the team for CHIO Rotterdam yet. I already got a warning for leaking the Abu Dhabi team before it was officially announced! However, I can promise that I will field the strongest possible team. We’re not just here to gain experience. I’ve also made it clear to the riders that they need to be available for your event.”

Hoping for a Winning Debut

"I’d like to close by saying that I’ve always enjoyed competing in Rotterdam and have had some great successes there. Unfortunately, I never won the Grand Prix, but I came close a few times. Now, I hope to follow in Jos Lansink’s footsteps and make my debut as national coach with a victory at CHIO. That’s the goal!”

Inspiring words from an enthusiastic and optimistic coach! Wout Jan, thank you for this great conversation. Best of luck in Abu Dhabi for your debut as chef d'equipe in the Longines League of Nations™️ and in the upcoming qualifiers. We look forward to welcoming you in June at Kralingse Bos!