Tetouan sets the bar high

Tetouan, Thursday, 18 September 2025

First emotions, first thrills. The 2025 edition of the Morocco Royal Tour (MRT) kicked off this Thursday in front of the stands of the Royal Guard of Tétouan. In this majestic setting, riders and horses entered in the CSI1* and CSI4*-W, representing 18 nations, took to the arena, launching a week of high-level competition.

A 100% Moroccan start in the CSI1*

The CSI1* opened the day with the Prix d’Oued Draa (1.25m), where the Moroccan riders shone, sweeping the top 9 placings. Ghita Msefer and Carlotta de Champloue claimed victory, ahead of Souleimane El Mandour with Kornel van de Renger, while Mohammed Nizar Souktani and Genesis Z completed the podium.

The CSI4-W* gets underway with the Prix de l’Indépendance.

For the Prix de l’Indépendance, 96 horse-and-rider combinations took on a fast and technical track of 12 obstacles, designed by French 4* course designer Cédric Longis. A pure speed class, where every turn and every stride made the difference.

The standout performance came from French rider Nathalie Mack. On her first appearance at the Morocco Royal Tour, she took the win aboard Baccara de l’Aubépine, earning her first CSI4* victory. Holding the lead for much of the class, she left no chance to her rivals with a flawless and lightning-fast round.

“It was a great opening class to set the tone and get a feel for the arena. This is my first win at this level with Baccara, who is truly my heart horse. I’ve had her since she was a youngster, we’ve built everything together. I’m very happy and a little emotional about this first day of competition,” said Nathalie.

Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano, renowned for his speed-riding skills, secured second place with Julius D, while his compatriot Massimo Grossato took third aboard Legend.