One year after his victory, the Olympic champion returns to Dinard with ambition, clarity — and a lasting affection for this legendary arena.

Every summer, the world’s top riders gather in Dinard. But for Kevin Staut, this event holds a special place. Winner of the 2024 Rolex Grand Prix Ville de Dinard — one of the standout competitions on the international circuit — he returns in 2025 with just as much motivation and an enduring personal connection to this historic show.

“I’m always happy to come back to Dinard, regardless of last year’s result. Winning here last year was a proud moment, a great performance. But that’s not what makes me excited to return. It’s the event itself — its atmosphere, its history...”

Kevin Staut knows Dinard well:

“I think I first rode here 15 or 20 years ago, when it was still a three-star show. Since then, I come back as often as I can. I love the energy, the crowd, the region… There’s something special here. Dinard has a soul.”

To try and defend his title, Kevin will be counting on New Libero One d'Asschaut, a horse he’s been riding since February:

“It’s a horse I really like. He recently won the Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, and also jumped well at Jumping international of La Baule - Officiel de France and at CHIO Aachen. He’s progressing steadily, and I’m happy to have him with me for Dinard.”

As for his goals for the 2025 edition, the French rider sticks to his core philosophy:

“My main goal is always to produce the best riding I can. I try to plan each day carefully, make smart choices… but also stay flexible. You need to adapt to what happens on the ground — the horse’s feeling, the weather, the footing…”

This year’s field is stacked — with newly crowned European Champion Richard Vogel, Vice-Champion Scott Brash, plus Henrik von Eckermann, Steve Guerdat, Daniel Deusser, Abdel Saïd and many more. But Kevin stays focused on his own path:

“Honestly, I never check start lists. I’m not on social media, I don’t follow that stuff. My greatest rival is myself. No matter who else is there, what matters is what I deliver on the day.”

That said, he welcomes the high level of competition:

“It’s fantastic for the show, for the fans, and for the sport to have so many top riders in one place. It elevates the event, it electrifies the atmosphere.”

What makes Dinard so unique in his eyes?

“First, the arena. The grass ring at Val Porée is unlike any other — with slopes and a complex layout. It really challenges both horse and rider to adapt.

Then, the atmosphere. It’s a free event, open to everyone. And every year, the stands are packed with passionate, engaged fans. It’s such a rare joy to share our sport with such a wide and enthusiastic audience.

Dinard is a show that captures the essence of our world. It’s high-level sport, it’s elegance, it’s popular. And that, to me, is priceless.”