In a world where fractions of a second define legacies, showjumping rider Simon
Delestre continues to ride with the elegance of an artist and the focus of a sportsman. Back in March, at the Grand Palais Éphémère, the French rider claimed his third Grand Prix Hermès victory, an emotional milestone forged by years of discipline, instinct, and an unbreakable bond with his horses.
By Therese Alhaug. Photo Maxime David
Back in March, under the glowing roof of the Grand Palais Éphémère, Saut Hermès 2025 once again delivered a breathtaking fusion of sport, sophistication, and equestrian artistry. Over three days, the world’s top riders gathered for a celebration of precision, style, and the enduring bond between horse and rider, culminating in a thrilling victory by French show jumping well known rider Simon Delestre, who secured his third Grand Prix Hermès title.
For Delestre, who has long been a fixture at the highest levels of international competition, the win held extraordinary significance.
“This year’s victory at Saut Hermès was almost unthinkable,” he reflected. “To achieve something like this, in Paris, surrounded by so much history and prestige, it’s truly one of the most meaningful moments of my career.”
The most beautiful part of show jumping is the connection you can build with a horse after years of working together. That’s something no other sport can offer.
Beyond speed
Known for his fearless, lightning-fast rides, Delestre has built his career on both instinct and discipline. Yet behind the speed lies a philosophy rooted in patience and respect.
“I never ask my horses to do something they’re not ready or capable of doing,” he explained. “That kind of trust, that level of complicity, only comes with time.”
It’s this deep connection, earned through years of careful training, that consistently sets Delestre apart in the ring. Over the years, Delestre has amassed an impressive string of titles, represented France at the Olympics, and earned a reputation as one of the sport’s most technically gifted riders. But when asked what fuels his sustained excellence, he is quick to credit the fundamentals:
“It’s a combination of rigor, hard work, and dedication. You have to keep questioning yourself. Never get comfortable.”
He also points to one of the most critical but often overlooked elements of elite show jumping: “Choosing the right horses is essential.”
Competing at a venue like Saut Hermès brings its own unique pressures, but for Delestre, experience is the best armor against stress. “The key is to transform pressure into positive motivation,” he said. “Don’t let it paralyze you. And when you’ve been through these situations before, it gives you confidence.”
It’s a perspective honed not just in grand arenas, but through a lifetime immersed in horses. Growing up in a riding family, Delestre’s path was shaped from an early age.
“My father was already a rider, and I watched him work with horses. I got in the saddle very young. I’ve been immersed in this world since childhood.”
That immersion has defined both his lifestyle and his identity.
“I live at the stables, I live with the horses. And in this sport, we’re lucky. We get to travel the world with them.”
I live at the stables, I live with the horses. And in this sport, we’re lucky. We get to travel the world with them.
Precision by heart
As a partner rider for Hermès, Delestre shares a bond not only with the sport, but with a house that represents its highest ideals.
“Hermès is equestrian tradition elevated to its finest form,” he said. “The Saut Hermès is a unique event in a magical place. I’m proud to be part of this team of riders and to use the best possible equipment for my horses.”
But beyond the results and sponsorships, it’s the emotional and intuitive side of the sport that keeps Delestre devoted.
“The most beautiful part of show jumping is the connection you can build with a horse after years of working together,” he said. “That’s something no other sport can offer.”
With his third win at the Saut Hermès, Simon Delestre proves that the true brilliance of a rider isn’t just measured by time on the clock, but by the invisible threads of trust, empathy, and mastery that tie a rider to the heart of the horse.
