As Bordeaux Showdown Approaches, Equestrian Offers Insights into Upcoming FEI Driving World Cup Qualifier

Still thriving in the 21st century, driving is the oldest equestrian sport to have engaged fans worldwide. Entailing three trials: obstacle cone driving, cross-country marathon, and dressage; this premium sport has been nothing but spectacular since its inception in 1970. Since then, it has been one of the most admired, despite not being an Olympic entrant. But special mention to the FEI Driving World Cup, which is nearing its 2023-24 season finals.

Among various leagues held throughout the year, the FEI Driving World Cup usually starts towards the end of the year and spans 5-6 months. The 2023-24 season, already midway, is girding up for its Bordeaux event. But before that, let’s hear what the athletes have to say about their experience here.

Equestrian Michael Brauchle feels at home

Having started at Lyon, France, the Leipzig, Germany leg of the competition has just kicked off on January 18. Scheduled to end on January 21, the 4-day-long nerve-wracking bouts will have the list of athletes to move forward with. But the four-in-four driver Michael Brauchle feels the atmosphere of Leipzig doing its magic. The Instagram post of FEI reads, “Germany’s @michael.brauchle feels right at home at @partnerpferdleipzig, where he is taking on the best in the business in the FEI Driving World Cup™ qualifier”. 

In the video, Brauchle said, “The atmosphere in Leipzig is beautiful, one of the most beautiful atmospheres of the indoor competitions. When I go into the arena, I don’t see the public. I see my competition, then I start and I see nothing”.  Qualified in the Leipzig leg, Brauchle shouted out to his rivals Bram Chardon and IJsbrand Chardon, whom he’ll contest in the finals with. Now, let’s run through equestrian Michael Brauchle’s career a little before rooting for him at the Bordeaux finals.

Michael Brauchle’s impressive career

Hailing from a family of drivers, Brauchle had things easy on his plate. But when he won the Marathon and the Jump & Run at the CHIO in Aachen, he could see his dreams turn into reality. The marathon expert has won several golds in the Aachen circuit and could slowly unlock his skills one by one.

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Appearing at the 2019 German Championships wasn’t a cakewalk for him. Fresh off an injury, he struggled to maintain his winning streak starting in 2015. Though his second-place finish at that event was commendable, he snatched back his throne with the German Champion title in 2021. At the FEI Driving World Cup that is currently underway, it’s just a matter of one solid performance to take home the golden coins.

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