BSM25 - Press briefing

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JOIN THE CHAMPIONS

27 – 31 August 2025 th st

Welcome to the home of champions, where the world’s most prestigious international showjumping competition, the Brussels Stephex Masters, takes place. This year marks the eleventh edition of this extraordinary event.

Get ready to be dazzled by various competition categories, including the Prestige League, Super Cup, Top Series, and the CSIO 5*, representing the most spectacular level our discipline has to offer. The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the Henders & Hazel Nations Cup and the CSIO 5* Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi on the final day.

Prepare to be amazed with jaw-dropping entertainment, indulge in delightful hospitality, and enjoy a front-row seat to watch the best riders from around the globe compete at their peak.

Join us and witness the ultimate display of skill, agility, and athleticism that can only be found at the Home of the Champions, now celebrating its eleventh edition.

THIS EDITION IN numbers

Celebrating a decade of Equestrian Excellence and Unmatched Growth

Reflecting on the incredible achievements of the 2024 10th edition of the Brussels Stephex Masters, we proudly share these impressive numbers.

The 2024 edition was backed by a global budget of 5.2 million euros, creating an unmatched, premium experience for all who attended. Over 840 horses and 300 riders from more than 40 countries competed, elevating the competition with their extraordinary skills and sportsmanship. The event featured an impressive 1.1 million euros in prize money, intensifying the thrill of each contest.

With over 40,000 visitors, including 9,500 VIP guests, the Brussels Stephex Masters offered our partners exceptional exposure to an engaged and diverse audience.

As we look ahead to the 2025 edition, running from 27 to 31 August, the event will expand with the addition of a third competition arena, a refreshed program including the return of Kids Day, and the CSIO5* Henders & Hazel Nations Cup presented by STX Finance taking center stage on Friday afternoon. The week will once again culminate in the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi, affirming its place as one of the most prestigious highlights of the international showjumping calendar.

5.2M Global budget

+840 Horses

+1.1M Prize money

+300 Riders

+40K Visitors

40+ Countries

TOP RIDERS on stage

The FEI World Rankings leave no doubt: the Brussels Stephex Masters stands among the most prestigious competitions on the calendar. This edition features 18 riders from the world’s top 50, representing powerhouse nations and bringing Olympic medals, World Championship titles, and World Cup victories with them. Spectators can look forward to thrilling battles between the legends of the sport and its brightest young stars.

Ben

Steve

Henrik von

Scott Brash

Harrie Smolders

Martin Fuchs

Kevin Staut

Gilles Thomas

Daniel Deusser

Cian O’Connor

Nina Mallevaey

Harry Charles

Nicola Philippaerts

Gregory Wathelet

Kim Emmen

Pieter Devos

Mariano Martinez Bastida

Christian Ahlmann

NEXT GENERATION Champions

From her very first rides on a Shetland pony, Nina Mallevaey’s love for horses was undeniable. After proving her talent in pony championships, her career took a decisive turn in 2021 at Knokke Hippique, where she caught the eye of Stephan Conter. This connection led her to Eric Lamaze’s renowned Torrey Pines stable, giving her the chance to develop her skills on the international stage.

That same summer, she made her debut at the Brussels Stephex Masters, riding Nikka vd Bisschop, a mare who remains one of her most trusted partners to this day.

Now based in Wellington, Florida, Nina rides under the support of Tara and Mark Rein, whom she warmly describes as family rather than employers. Already crowned French Champion and competing successfully at the CSI 5-star level, she manages a powerful string of horses, including Nikka, Clementine, and Dynastie de Beaufour.

Along the way, she has benefitted from the guidance of Julien Epaillard, Eric Lamaze, Laura Kraut, Nick Skelton, and more recently Helena Stormanns.

Beyond results, Nina values connection: “The more care and attention you give them, the more they give back,” she reflects, highlighting her belief in the partnership at the heart of her success.

Raised within the world of showjumping at the Stephex stables in Brussels, Emilie Conter has steadily grown from a talented junior into one of Belgium’s most exciting young riders.

Her rise has been powered by her unique partnership with Portobella vd Fruitkorf, a ten-year-old mare who may be small in stature but possesses remarkable power and determination.

In March, the duo achieved a career milestone by winning their first CSI 5* Grand Prix in Wellington, a triumph that was quickly followed by helping Belgium secure a bronze medal in the Nations Cup in the United States. Emilie then delivered clear, confident rounds in the Nations Cups at Rotterdam and Aachen, firmly establishing herself as a reliable member of the Belgian team.

While Portobella was once considered difficult, Emilie’s patience and belief unlocked her potential, creating a bond that shines in the ring. “You could even say she’s small, but once she enters the ring, she always believes she’s the biggest,” Emilie says with admiration. Their success shows not only Portobella’s talent but also Emilie’s growing maturity, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. With her ambition and results, she is carving her place among the sport’s brightest stars.

Emilie Conter

“The Brussels Stephex Masters have always been more than just a horse show to me. From the very beginning, our ambition was not only to bring the best riders and horses to Brussels, but to create an atmosphere where top sport, hospitality, and entertainment merge into something unforgettable. Every year, we push ourselves to raise the bar, not only in terms of sport, but also in the way people experience the event.

Challenges are part of the journey. We all remember the years when the weather made things extremely difficult. Yet those are the moments when I am most proud of our team. The way everyone comes together, stays positive, and turns a potential setback into a success, that is the true spirit of the Stephex Masters.

What makes this event truly special is that it’s not just for equestrian insiders. Even if you know nothing about horses, you can feel the magic here: the energy of the competition, the closeness to the athletes, the festive atmosphere, the sense of community. For us, it’s about opening the doors of our sport and inviting everyone to be part of it.

Looking ahead, my vision is clear: to keep growing the Brussels Stephex Masters, to innovate year after year, and to strengthen its place among the world’s most prestigious equestrian events. We want to set new standards, not only in sport, but also in how people remember an event. For me, that combination of excellence, ambition, and joy is what makes the Masters truly unique.”

SPORT Program

Prize money

Possible category combinations

CSI

CSI

CSI

Prize

Prize

Grand place

12:30

CSI 2* Super Cup

Two Phases Special 1m35 - € 3.000

1 horse/rider

17:00

CSI 1* Prestige League

Two Phases Special 1m20 - € 1.200

1 horse/rider

Sablon Arena

09:15

CSI 2* Super Cup

Two Phases Special 1m30 - € 2.500

1 horse/rider 11:15

CSI 3* Top Series

Two Phases Special 1m40 - € 4.000

2 horses/rider 14:00

6 YH Future Stars

Two Phases Special 1m25 - € 1.000

1 horse/rider 16:15

CSI 2* Super Cup

Two Phases Special 1m40 - € 4.000

1 horse/rider

Dansaert Arena 09:30

CSI 1* Prestige League

Two Phases 1m25 - € 1.500

1 horse/rider 15:00

CSI 3* Top Series

Two Phases Special 1m40 - € 4.000

2 horses/rider

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Grand place

11:00

CSI 1* Prestige League

Two Phases Special

1m15 - € 1.000

1 horse/rider

13:15

CSIO 5*

Table A against the clock

1m40 - € 5.000

2 horses/rider

17:00

CSI 3* Top Series R Q Jump-Off

1m45 - € 28.200

1 horses/rider

21:00

CSIO 5*

Table A against the clock

1m50 - € 30.000

1 horse/rider

Sablon Arena

09:30

CSI 3* Top Series

Table A against the clock

1m40 - € 4.000

2 horses/rider

14:30

CSI 1* Prestige League

Table A against the clock

1m25 - € 1.500

1 horses/rider

Dansaert Arena

09:00

6 YH Future Stars

Two Phases Special 1m25 - € 1.000

1 horse/rider

12:00

7-8 YH Future Stars

Table A against the clock

1m35 - 1m40 - € 2.000

1 horses/rider

17:30

CSI 2* Super Cup

Table A against the clock

1m35 - € 3.000

1 horse/rider

Grand place

10:30

7&8 YH Future Stars

Table A against the clock 1m35 - 1m40 - € 2.000

1 horse/rider

13:15

Team Presentation

13:45

Course Walk 14:30

CSIO 5* - Nations Cup

Table A against the clock

1m60 - € 200.000

1 horse/rider

19:00

CSIO 5*

Jump-Off 1m50 - € 56.800

1 horse/rider

22:00

SX Exclusive Breeding Collection Auction

Sablon Arena

08:30

CSI 2* Super Cup

Table A against the clock 1m30 - € 2.500

1 horse/rider

11:45

CSIO 5*

Two phases special 1m45 - € 5.000

2 horses/rider

16:45

CSI 1* - Prestige League

Table A against the clock 1m20 - € 1.200

1 horse/rider

Dansaert Arena

09:00

CSI 3* - Top Series R Q

Table A against the clock 1m45 - € 28.200

1 horses/rider

13:45

CSI 2* Super Cup

Table A against the clock 1m40 - € 3.500

1 horse/rider

19:00

Pony Showclass

Table A 90cm - 1m

Grand place

11:00

CSI 1* Prestige League Grand Prix

Jump-Off 1m30 - € 3.000

1 horse/rider

14:30

CSI 2* Super Cup Grand Prix

Jump-Off 1m45 - € 25.000

1 horses/rider

18:00

CSI 3* - Top Series

2 Rounds 1m45 - € 28.200

1 horse/rider

21:30

CSIO 5*

Jump-Off 1m50 - € 70.000 - Audi A1 incl.

1 horse/rider

Sablon Arena

09:00

CSI 2* Super Cup

Table A against the clock 1m40 - € 2.500

2 horses/rider

13:30

7-8 YH Future Stars Jump-Off 1m40 - 1m45 - € 8.000

1 horse/rider

19:00

Pony Showclass

Table A 90cm - 1m

Dansaert Arena 09:00

CSI 1* Prestige League

Table A against the clock 1m15 - € 1.000

1 horse/rider

11:30

CSIO 5*

Two Phases Special 1m45 - € 5.000

2 horses/rider

16:45

CSI 1* Prestige League

Two Phases Special 1m25 - € 1.500

2 horses/rider

Grand place

10:00

CSI 3* - Top Series Grand Prix

Jump-Off 1m50 - € 56.800

1 horse/rider

14:30

CSIO 5* Rolex Grand Prix

2 Rounds

1m60 - € 500.000 - Audi e-tron GT incl.

1 horse/rider

Sablon Arena

09:00

6 YH Future Stars

Two phases special 1m30 - € 2.000

1 horse/rider 12:50

CSI 1* Prestige League

Two phases special 1m20 - € 1.200

2 horses/rider

Dansaert Arena

11:00

CSI 2* Super Cup

Table A against the clock 1m35 - € 3.000

2 horses/rider 15:00

Pony Showclass

Table A 90cm - 1m

EVENT highlights

Entertainment Sport

Brussels Stephex Masters is a highlight of sportsmanship, featuring elite equestrian athletes in peak performance. The Brussels Stephex Masters offers a front-row seat to remarkable displays of athleticism, precision, and grace. Engage with competitive spirit, feeling the adrenaline as global riders compete in worldclass showjumping. Align your brand with the values of excellence, determination, and unwavering commitment through this unique opportunity.

The event provides diverse, all-ages entertainment. From captivating live performances to thrilling exhibitions or a kids day to entertain the little, our entertainment ensures audience delight and engagement. Immerse in a vibrant atmosphere, enjoying world-class acts and exciting shows. Align your brand with this captivating entertainment, crafting lasting impressions in the hearts of your guests.

Hospitality

Indulge in luxury and VIP treatment through our hospitality packages. Immerse in a world of sophistication, designed to create an unforgettable experience. Whether hosting esteemed clients or reveling in equestrian excellence, our packages provide outstanding dining, exclusive access, and the finest service. Join us to forge meaningful connections and craft enduring memories.

Join a remarkable tradition celebrating the equestrian future through the foal auction. Witness carefully selected foals with exceptional lineage, the next generation of champions. Invest in tomorrow’s equestrian stars through this unique opportunity. Join us to support the sport’s growth and connect with fellow equestrian enthusiasts who share your passion for excellence in this noble discipline.

Foal auction

WHAT’S New

A Brand-New Arena: Dansaert

The Brussels Stephex Masters continues to grow! For 2025, we are expanding with a third competition arena – Dansaert. This stunning new grass arena will sit alongside our iconic Grand Place and Sablon arenas, creating even more opportunities for top-level competition.

Did you know?

The names of our arenas are inspired by famous districts in Brussels, celebrating the city’s rich heritage.

With Dansaert, we welcome more riders, more action, and more unforgettable moments to the Brussels Stephex Masters!

Nations Cup Moves to the Afternoon

One of the most iconic moments of the Brussels Stephex Masters is getting a fresh spotlight in 2025. For the first time ever, the CSIO5* Henders & Hazel Nations Cup presented by STX Finance will take place Friday afternoon, bringing a new energy and rhythm to Friday’s program.

Traditionally held under the lights, this prestigious team competition will now unfold in broad daylight — giving spectators the chance to experience every stride, jump, and celebration with a whole new perspective. The shift in timing not only sets the stage for a high-powered afternoon of international rivalry and team spirit, but also allows the evening to take on a more elegant, breeding-focused atmosphere with the Stephex Exclusive Breeding Collection Auction

Different timing. Same electric atmosphere. Don’t miss this new take on a beloved classic.

“THE BRUSSELS STEPHEX MASTERS WAS THE PERFECT STAGE FOR MY FIRST 5* GRAND PRIX VICTORY, A DREAM COME TRUE.”
– José María Larocca

ROLEX Series

Legacy of Excellence in Equestrian Sport

Brussels Stephex Masters is proud to be part of the prestigious Rolex Series, a label that represents the very best of international show jumping. Building on its remarkable legacy, the Rolex Series continues to set new standards of excellence and innovation in the equestrian world.

Comprising seven iconic events — Wellington International – Rolex finale week, CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena, Jumping International de La Baule – Officiel de France, Jumping International de Dinard, the RDS Dublin Horse Show, Falsterbo, and Brussels Stephex Masters — the Rolex Series unites the sport’s most historic venues and most passionate audiences.

At the heart of each event lies the Rolex Grand Prix, where the greatest riders and horses compete head-to-head for one of the most coveted victories in show jumping. To triumph in a Rolex Grand Prix is to join the sport’s elite — a mark of prestige, consistency, and excellence.

At the Brussels Stephex Masters, the spotlight will shine on the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi, taking place on Sunday, 31 August at 2:30 PM.

HIGHLIGHTS Per Day

Wednesday 27 August

The opening day sets a magical tone with the launch of the CSI1*, CSI2*, CSI3* and young horse classes. While the arenas are a little calmer, featuring only the young horses and the 1*, 2* and 3* riders, the grounds are alive with energy. A vibrant Kids Day brings fun, entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages.

Thursday 28 August

The 5* horses make their debut in the Grand Place Arena, setting the stage for the weekend’s highlights. Much like Formula 1 drivers fighting for pole position, riders and horses use this first day to find their rhythm and adapt to the special atmosphere of the Brussels Stephex Masters. The action begins at 1:15 p.m. with a 1.40m warm-up, before building to the evening’s main event at 9:00 p.m.: the first major 5* competition and a qualifier for Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix. Last year, Belgian Champion Gilles Thomas and Elfra van Beek Z captured the win.

Friday 29 August

The spotlight shines on the CSIO5* Henders & Hazel Nations Cup presented by STX Finance, where 10 nations go head-to-head in one of the sport’s most prestigious competitions. In the previous edition, Switzerland claimed victory ahead of Belgium and the Netherlands. This year, the three European Championship medal nations meet again for the first time since the championships, joined by strong contenders from Brazil, France, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, Sweden and the UAE. The excitement continues into the evening with the Stephex Exclusive Breeding Collection Auction, giving spectators the chance to invest in the future through foals of exceptional quality.

Saturday 30 August

The first Grand Prix classes take center stage in the CSI1* and CSI2*. While many Nations Cup horses enjoy a rest day, the riders remain in action. At 9:30 p.m., the spotlight returns to the stars with a thrilling 1.50m class and jump-off, the final opportunity to qualify for Sunday’s prestigious Rolex Grand Prix. Last year’s edition delivered unforgettable moments, as Daniel Deusser and Tobago Z claimed victory by fractions in a breathtaking finish, ahead of Steve Guerdat with Is-Minka and Harrie Smolders with Mr Tac.

Sunday 31 August

The final day delivers two Grand Prix highlights. At 10:00 a.m., the CSI3* Grand Prix unfolds over a 1.50m course. A class Lorenzo de Luca will remember fondly after last year’s victory with Violino Il Palazetto, ahead of Mike Van Olst on Comme Elle Faut Z and Marine Scauflaire on Hortus d’Hoogpoort. Jessica Springsteen, a former Rolex Grand Prix winner, finished just outside the podium.

But the true climax comes at 2:30 p.m. with the CSIO5* Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi. One of the most prestigious competitions in international showjumping, it brings the absolute world elite into the spotlight. Last year, José Maria Larocca and Finn Lente raced to victory in a class where only three pairs managed to stay clear, with Steve Guerdat (Dynamix de Belheme) taking second and Sweden’s Peder Fredricson (Alcapone des Carmille) third.

Curious who will rise to the occasion this year? The stage is set, the pressure is high and the battle for glory begins at 2:30 p.m.

VICTORY Value

We know how much goes into every round, that’s why we make every result count

At the Brussels Stephex Masters, riders compete for more than just ribbons. With over €1 million in prize money and unique rewards for top riders at every level, consistency pays off in a big way. This is a stage where the world’s best riders are truly rewarded.

Best 5* rider wins a BSM branded STX 2-horsetruck for one year

Best 3* rider also drives away with an STX 2-horsetruck

Best 2* receives a €5,000 voucher toward an STX 2 Horse Truck or Horsetruck

Best 1* rider receives a premium STX tack box

+1MPRIZE MONEY

LIFESTYLE Village

Located at the prestigious entrance of the event and VIP area, the Lifestyle Village is the meeting point for refinement and exclusivity. This elegant space brings together leading luxury brands with a discerning audience that values sophistication, innovation, and style. Here, visitors discover the best in fashion, fine dining, art, luxury goods, and premium lifestyle services, making it a hub for those who appreciate high-end experiences both inside and outside the equestrian world.

Prime Location: Directly at the entrance to the event and VIP area, guaranteeing maximum visibility.

Perfect for: Luxury brands, lifestyle products, fine dining, exclusive services, and premium experiences. Target Audience: High-net-worth individuals, style-conscious guests, and visitors with a taste for luxury.

EQUESTRIAN Village

The Equestrian Village is the heart of the event for the equestrian industry. Positioned along the main route to the showground, it is the goto destination for riders, trainers, grooms, and horse owners. This vibrant space connects professionals and enthusiasts with the latest innovations in the equestrian world.

Brands here showcase riding gear, equine equipment, horse care products, and professional equestrian services, creating a dynamic environment for networking, demonstrations, and expertise-sharing.

Prime Location: Along the busiest pathway to the showground, ensuring strong visibility and direct access to riders and grooms.

Perfect for: Industry networking, live demonstrations, workshops, and tailored equestrian solutions. Target Audience: Equestrian professionals, horse owners, trainers, and passionate riders seeking specialized products and expertise.

THIS IS NOT AN event

THIS IS AN experience

TRUSTED by

Being part of the Rolex Series places the Brussels Stephex Masters among the world’s most iconic equestrian events. Rolex is not only a timekeeper but a symbol of tradition, precision, and prestige in showjumping. We are proud to count such a legendary name among our most valued partners, reinforcing the Masters’ place on the global stage.

At the crossroads of horsepower, craftsmanship, and premium excellence, Stephex and Audi Belgium share the same DNA. This natural synergy is the foundation of a valued partnership that elevates the Brussels Stephex Masters. In 2025, Audi takes center stage as presenting partner of the Rolex Grand Prix and of a prestigious CSIO5* competition, bringing together performance, elegance, and passion at the very highest level of sport.

Style and design are the subtle yet essential elements that define the Masters’ atmosphere. Henders & Hazel bring a layer of elegance to the event that is felt rather than seen. As a valued partner, particularly of the Henders & Hazel Nations Cup presented by STX Finance, they help create an exclusive environment worthy of world-class sport and hospitality.

The Brussels Stephex Masters is more than an event, it is the embodiment of Stephex Group’s vision. Stephex Group unites world-class horsetrucks, state-of-the-art motorhomes, elite breeding and stables, and bespoke leasing solutions through STX Finance. Each division is driven by the same DNA: passion, innovation, and uncompromising excellence. As the host of the Masters, Stephex transforms this vision into an unforgettable experience, where competition and prestige meet in perfect harmony.

“At the Brussels Stephex Masters, we believe that the VIP experience should be just as memorable as the sport itself. For us, it’s never simply about offering a table by the arena. It’s about creating an atmosphere where every detail contributes to something truly special. From breathtaking views of the competition ring to world-class culinary creations, from impeccable service to top-level entertainment, we want our guests to feel immersed in an experience that goes far beyond traditional hospitality.

What makes it unique is the balance between intimacy and grandeur. Guests can watch Olympic riders perform at the very highest level, while at the same time enjoying a relaxed, welcoming environment where they feel completely at home. Many visitors tell us it’s the combination of the electric sporting atmosphere and the warm Stephex hospitality that makes the Masters unlike any other event.

Our philosophy is simple: excellence is in the details. The quality of the food, the design of the spaces, the service, the music, the people you meet, each element is carefully curated to create memories that last long after the event. It’s about offering a sense of belonging, of being part of something exclusive yet inclusive at the same time.

For me, the greatest reward is seeing our guests leave with a smile, knowing that they didn’t just attend a horse show, but lived an experience. That’s the heart of the VIP at the Masters: a celebration of sport, luxury, and connection, all woven seamlessly together.”

PRACTICAL

Info

Address:

Linthoutseweg 2-5

1861 Wolvertem, Belgium

Arrive at:

Brussels Midi Train Station Avenue Fonsny 47B

1060 Brussels, Belgium

Fly into:

Brussels International Airport (Zaventem)

Approx. 10-minute drive to the venue

Entrance Information

Upon arrival, accredited press and paying content creators should go to the Crew Office / Accreditation to collect their bracelet and access the event and Press Room. Accredited nonpaying content creators may use the public entrance without a bracelet.

PRESS Room

Press Room – Brussels Stephex Masters 2025

We are delighted to welcome journalists, photographers, and content creators to the 2025 edition of the Brussels Stephex Masters. To provide high-quality facilities and professional support, a dedicated press room will be available for all accredited members of the press.

Please ensure you have received an official invitation or completed your accreditation in order to access the press room.

Facilities

Workstations with internet access

Lockers

Air conditioning and heating

Assistance from our press team

Coffee, tea, and water

Opening hours

Wednesday 27 – Sunday 31 August 2025

Daily from 8:00 AM until one hour after the event ends

Inquiries

For any media inquiries or questions regarding press accreditation, please contact: Katrien Van Miert

Press@stephex.com

+32 479 63 35 73

PRESS conferences

Henders & Hazel Nations Cup presented by STX Finance

Friday, 29 August at 18:00

Location: Between Trophy Club & Winners Suite

Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi

Sunday, 31 August at 18:00

Location: Between Trophy Club & Winners Suite

Access official Masters photos and branding materials below.

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