London, England – December 18, 2025 – Victor Bettendorf (LUX) got off to the perfect start on Thursday on opening day of the 2025 London International Horse Show CSI 5*-W, teaming up with Encore Toi du Linon for victory in the €36,000 Champagne Taittinger Speed Stakes CSI 5*.
As one of the fastest riders in the world, Bettendorf blazed through the course aboard the 11-year-old bay Selle Français mare (Kannan x Desir du Chateau), leaving all the poles up before completing the 1.55m speed challenge in 56.28 seconds for the win.
Jos Verlooy (BEL) and Parise van den Dael were the closest ones, finishing over two seconds slower (58.34 seconds) while Jack Whitaker (GBR) and Valmy de La Lande gave the home crowd something to cheer about, rounding out the top three in 58.55 seconds.
Final Results – The €36,000 Champagne Taittinger Speed Stakes CSI 5* – 1.55m
1) Victor Bettendorf (LUX) & Encore Toi du Linon – 0 – 56.28
2) Jos Verlooy (BEL) & Parise van den Dael – 0 – 58.34
3) Jack Whitaker (GBR) & Valmy de La Lande – 0 – 58.55
Source: Press Release from London International Horse Show
Photo: © LIHS
