ABDEL SAÏD: I’ll GET THAT PORSCHE NEXT TIME

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Riding his gelding Calvaro, Saïd was placed second after clearing the jump-off in 39.13 seconds at the CSI3* Porsche Grand Prix in A Coruña, taking place alongside the Longines FEI Jumping European Championship. Daniel Coyle of Ireland, who cleared in 38.56 seconds, won a Porsche Macan on top of the prize money.

So, Abdel Saïd needs no introduction, to us he’s like the Ted Lasso of showjumping sport, but we’ll give it a go anyway.

A distinguished rider in the international showjumping scene, Saïd has had an unwavering and relentless will to work hard and propel to the highest levels of this competitive sport. Years in the making, he’s earned recognition not only for his exceptional talent but also for his entrepreneurial approach to the sport. Beyond the arena, Saïd is a sharp businessman, always seeking new ways to elevate his craft and inspire others. And despite his impressive achievements, he remains remarkably humble and gracious, exemplifying the true spirit of a champion both in and out of the saddle.

Currently ranked 13th in the Longines FEI World Rankings, he operates a successful horse stable in Belgium that offers coaching, management, and horse sales. Calvaro is one of his notable horses, who took him to win the CSI5* Classic at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida. He also rides Aperge Du Ru, a mare that contributed to his victory at the Falsterbo Horse Show Derby this month.

His champion mare Bonne Amie took him to win the LGCT of Doha and the LGCT CSI5* Eiffel Challenge in Paris. Bonne Amie also supported Saïd, representing Team Belgium, in finishing on zero faults during the Nations Cup of La Baule, earning second place. And together they also contributed to the Belgian Team at the Longines FEI Jumping European Championship, helping them become European Champions.

How does he keep going?

Which rider would you turn to if you had a technical issue?

I have a few riders I enjoy talking to. I’d say Daniel Deusser, Steve Guerdat, Cian O’Connor and of course, I work closely with Marcus Beerbaum.

Which rider or who do you believe has significantly improved their game and deserves your respect?

Honestly, I think all the top riders today have worked incredibly hard to reach their level, and I respect that. In particular I admire riders who have maintained consistent success over time, such as Guerdat, Ludger Beerbaum (when he was competing), and Marcus Ehning. Their sustained success at the highest levels is truly commendable.

Where do you see yourself in July 2026?

I aim to be in the top 10 and will be working diligently to achieve that.

Tell us five things about Bonne Amie?

She’s powerful, extravagant, feisty, has a strong character, and is a natural winner.

How challenging is Santiago Varela’s course?

They aren’t particularly daunting. Santiago is a very meticulous course designer who carefully considers every element. He’s fair and thoughtful in his approach.

If you become a European champion, whom would you like to see on the podium with you?

There isn’t one specific person. I believe it’s a team effort, so I would love to share the podium with my horses and the entire team.

Any regrets?

Not really.

How do you handle success and failure?

There’s a lot to learn from both. I believe failure offers valuable lessons. I try to remain balanced during both triumphs and setbacks because dwelling too much on failure can delay the process of improvement.

How do you stay motivated after achieving so much?

The journey is long and there’s always more to accomplish. I use my successes as motivation to keep pushing forward. To reach the top of this sport isn’t easy. I focus on developing a deeper understanding of my horses and maintaining their health because excelling in both is essential and far more sustainable than winning at the expense of their well-being. HT

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Photos by Helen Cruden courtesy of Abdel Saïd

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