The Irish team, led by Chef d’Équipe Michael Blake, clinched victory in the opening qualifier of the 2025 Longines League of Nations™, held in Abu Dhabi (UAE), finishing with a flawless score of zero after two faultless rounds.
Joining them on the podium were the United Arab Emirates, who impressed with 8 penalties, and France, finishing close behind with 12 in a fiercely contested event featuring 11 nations. Only eight teams advanced to the second round, where Ireland stood out with an impeccable performance — including a brilliant double clear from Michael Pender and his mount, HHS Los Angeles.
Italy surprised with a strong debut in the series, while defending champions Germany narrowly missed the podium, edged out by just a few seconds. Belgium, Switzerland, and Great Britain were unable to maintain top positions.
With this commanding result, Ireland launches its 2025 campaign with intent, clearly determined to go one better after last year’s second-place finish and fight for the overall title.
