Italy set for a strong Longines League of Nations™ 2026 Campaign

Italy’s participation in the League builds on an already rich tradition in international equestrian sport and follows significant performances across major team competitions. With momentum from its 2025 campaign and a blend of experienced stars and rising talent, the ‘Azzurri’ are poised to bring passion and competitive strength to the Longines League of Nations™ qualifiers. We spoke to Italian Jumping team selector, Stefano Cesaretto, about what’s in store for 2026.

Italy has shown growing depth and confidence in team Jumping over recent seasons. What elements within the Italian system have been most influential in securing qualification for the 2026 Longines League of Nations™?

Qualification for the Longines League of Nations™ was largely driven by the strong determination and commitment of our athletes to compete extensively in as many top-level competitions as they could access. This dedicated approach has allowed them to keep improving through constant comparison at the highest level, while also earning valuable ranking points.

Italian athletes often bring a distinctive blend of flair and precision to competitions. How do you harness that individual style while ensuring consistency and reliability in a team-based format like the Longines League of Nations™, and what training elements help athletes and horses to stay on form?

Italy has a strong tradition in terms of riding style and quality, and our athletes place great importance on Longines League of Nations™ competitions. For this reason, they always give their maximum commitment when competing for the team, as representing your nation is an enormous honour for athletes. In this way, each rider’s individual style is put at the service of the team, which we adapt naturally to the specific format of the Longines League of Nations™.

Italy has a strong pool of experienced athletes alongside a new generation pushing through. How do you manage the transition between established combinations and emerging talent within the high-pressure framework of the Longines League of Nations™?

One of our key objectives is to support and develop talented young athletes in order to create continuity and renewal within the teams, ensuring present and future competitiveness and development. Competing in high-pressure events such as the Longines League of Nations™ is exactly how our athletes can gain the experience and exposure needed to grow and progress at the top level.

The Longines League of Nations™ demands careful management of horses across a long season. How do you work with athletes, owners and veterinary professionals to prioritise horse welfare while remaining competitive at every leg?

We strive to create strong connection and synergy between the federation’s technical staff and the athletes, owners, and their private teams in order to carefully plan the competition and training schedules for each individual. When necessary, we may even sacrifice participation in other important events to prioritise our energy and focus for the Longines League of Nations™ events, ensuring the horses’ welfare while remaining competitive.

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, how do you see Italy’s participation in the Longines League of Nations™ shaping the next generation of Italian Jumping athletes and the country’s long-term ambitions in the sport?

Our goal is to maintain a strong level of competitiveness in order to continue participating in the Longines League of Nations™, because this circuit provides an excellent opportunity to compete in 5* events, which are not always accessible for our athletes.