Belgian Justin Verboomen Named World's Best Rider
As the undisputed leader in dressage competitions in 2025, Belgian rider Justin Verboomen has been named the world's best equestrian athlete by the International Equestrian Federation.
Completely unknown to the public just a year ago, Belgian rider Justin Verboomen, partnered with his mount, the stallion Zonik Plus, is now the world's number one in dressage.
Since the 37-year-old from Wauthier-Braines and his 9-year-old stallion joined the world dressage elite in December 2024, every major competition the duo has entered has resulted in victory.
After winning the Grand Prix at the Mechelen World Cup and then the Grand Prix Special at the most prestigious event of the season, the Aachen World Equestrian Festival, Justin Verboomen became the first Belgian to win the title at the European Championships held in Crozet, France.
In just under a year, the Zonik-Verboomen partnership has risen to the world number one ranking in only a few competitions, captivating both seasoned observers and the public.
It was therefore no surprise that the Belgian flag flew high at the FEI Awards gala in Hong Kong, where the rider from Brabant was awarded the FEI Peden Bloodstock Award for best athlete. This accolade was even more prestigious as the category encompassed the four disciplines of show jumping, eventing, endurance, and dressage.
The Belgian rider will compete in the World Championships in Aachen in August 2026 and will continue his preparations for the goal of Olympic gold in 2028.