Fuchs claims back-to-back victories

The sensational Swiss rider is richly rewarded with a “special” double on his phenomenal grey, with Robert Whitaker best of the Brits

- SARAH RADFORD, JENNIFER DONALD

Royal Windsor, Windsor Castle, Berks

MARTIN FUCHS took a chance bringing only one horse to Royal Windsor, but his faith in Leone Jei’s exceptional talent was rewarded when he took home the Rolex Grand Prix.

It was the second consecutive year that the Swiss rider has secured the €125,000 (£106,990) first prize here, having piloted another extraordinary horse, Connor Jei, to victory over Ben Maher and Explosion W in 2023.

“There’s usually a lot of pressure on the one class, not having any other chances, but I felt very confident after a good round on Friday,” said Martin, who had jumped a relaxed warm-up in the 1.55m Defender stakes.

“I knew today after I walked the course that the jump-off would suit us very well and if I do a good job, then normally he’s going to jump two clear rounds.

“Taking back-to-back wins is obviously fantastic,” he added, “but it’s not only winning back-to-back, the whole atmosphere here is special.”

Bernardo Costa Cabral had built a delicate first-round track that made subtle rather than overt demands. Poles fell throughout the course, although a vertical to oxer double on the final line, followed by a tall vertical at the final fence, elicited the most faults.

It was a testament to the quality of the 34-horse field, rather than soft course building, that 12 combinations jumped clear. Among them were three British riders: Robert Whitaker (Vermento), Matt Sampson (Daniel) and Tim Gredley (Imperial HBF).