Sport & Results
Isabell Werth and Viva Gold OLD Win World Cup Freestyle in Lyon
Isabell Werth and Viva Gold OLD claimed victory in the Lyon World Cup Freestyle with an impressive 87.89 percent. The stallion is a grandson of Weihegold OLD, with whom Werth also previously won in Lyon.
Equidara editorial team · 4 November 2026 · 1 min read
Isabell Werth and Viva Gold OLD triumphed in the Dressage World Cup Freestyle in Lyon on October 30, 2026. This victory was reported by the British equestrian magazine Horse & Hound. According to their report, the stallion scored 87.89 percent in his World Cup debut, marking a new personal best. The pair finished more than two percentage points ahead of Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus.
A Family Affair
For Werth, this win also holds a special family connection. According to Horse & Hound, she had previously won in Lyon with Weihegold OLD. The magazine states that Viva Gold OLD is the mare's grandson. His sire is Exquis Vivaldi, and his dam, Weihronce, is a daughter of Weihegold OLD.
The stallion is contesting his first year in international Grand Prix sport in 2026. Prior to the World Cup in Lyon, he consistently secured either first or second place in his international outings, as reported by Horse & Hound. Following the Freestyle, Werth praised his impressive development in the preceding months and weeks.
Belgian Pairs on the Podium
Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus earned second place with 85.81 percent. They had previously won the Grand Prix. Verboomen commented that Zonik Plus was a bit more tense during the Freestyle.
Larissa Pauluis and the 16-year-old Flambeau secured third place with 80.53 percent. This meant that both second and third positions went to Belgian pairs.
Sources
- It’s in the genes! Dressage legend wins World Cup class with grandson of her superstar mare (Horse & Hound) (3.11.2026)
- Titelfoto: scoopdyga.com, veröffentlicht von/published by WDM - World Dressage Masters, Wikimedia Commons
- Lizenz des Fotos: CC BY 2.0
Written by Equidara editorial team. Last checked: 4 November 2026.
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