The Dutch Masters, a journey to excellence

The Dutch Masters' rich history has been shaped by its enduring commitment to excellence in equestrianism along a journey of significant achievements. First staged in 1967, the show is steeped in tradition and comprises elite-level show jumping and dressage competitions that demand vast reserves of talent, determination and emotional strength from all competitors.

Rolex's partnership as Main Sponsor and Title Sponsor of the event's feature class, the Rolex Grand Prix, began in 2014, and in 2018 The Dutch Masters became the fourth Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major, a significant milestone for the show.

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, considered the sport's ultimate challenge and prize, rewards the rider who, consecutively, wins the Grand Prix at three of the four Majors, namely, The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows 'Masters' Tournament and the CHI Geneva.

Rolex has been a committed partner of equestrianism for almost 70 years, continuing to build on an equestrian tradition that began in 1957 through an alliance with the British show jumper Pat Smythe.

The Swiss watchmaker celebrates human achievement, recognizing the journey marked by milestones and emotions that culminates in momentous moments – defined by a path followed, not just a trophy. The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping sits at the heart of this ideal and the brand's enduring support for the sport.

Victory in the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters is an emotional moment in the journey towards the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. By becoming live contender for the sport's ultimate prize, a rider remains on course to emulate Rolex Testimonee Scott Brash, the only athlete to date to have achieved the elusive treble.

With every Major presenting its own distinctive challenges, riders must showcase a wide range of skills to be able to tackle the unique trials faced at each location. In contrast to the CHI Geneva, which is held in one of the world's largest indoor arenas, and the expansive outdoor fields at Aachen or Spruce Meadows, riders must tackle the unique challenges presented by a much smaller space at The Dutch Masters.

The demanding and compact indoor arena at The Dutch Masters requires horse and rider to perform with great harmony as they strive to achieve their goals. With fences closer together and courses tighter, there is no margin for error, and classes will be won and lost by mere milliseconds.

Rolex Testimonees Daniel Deusser (2007, 2015, 2022) and Kevin Staut (2010, 2014), know what it takes to win in this prestigious arena and are among a select group to have won the Rolex Grand Prix at the show on more than one occasion. Conversely, Dutch rider Harrie Smolders – the live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping following his success at the CHI Geneva – will be looking for his first Rolex Grand Prix victory in 's‑Hertogenbosch.

Germany's Deusser, a three-time Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major winner stated: "The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is the pinnacle of show jumping – every rider aims to compete at the Majors. Several years ago, the main goal during a rider's season was the Championships, whether that was the FEI European Championships or the Olympic Games. Nowadays, I think that has changed, and riders now plan their year around the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors. They are the highlight events of the calendar year and are sometimes considered to be more important than the Championships. This is because the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is made up of four of the most prestigious and historic shows in the world."

Rolex has a rich heritage of contributing to excellence in equestrianism, encouraging modernization while respecting the elegance of the sport. With Jeroen Dubbeldam taking on a new role as Sports Director of The Dutch Masters, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and commitment to drive further innovation and excellence at the show, there is no doubt that the 2025 edition is set to further cement its position as one of the most elite events on the international equestrian circuit.

Dutchman and Rolex Testimonee, Dubbeldam, one of the world's finest equestrians, recognizes the prestige of competing at a home Major as well as the extent to which the show has developed in recent history. Speaking ahead of the show, Dubbeldam said: "The Dutch Masters is an incredibly special show to me. It has been amazing to compete in the Rolex Grand Prix – part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping – in front of my home crowd over the years. Since Rolex became a sponsor over 10 years ago, the show has developed significantly, and the level of competition has improved tremendously. I feel enormously honoured to take on my new role as Sporting Director at The Dutch Masters and to be part of the wider team that is striving together to achieve excellence."

As the first Major of the calendar year approaches, anticipation builds for another chapter of sporting greatness. With elite athletes, world-class competition, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, this prestigious event continues to push the boundaries of equestrian sport.

ROLEX GRAND PRIX WINNERS

2024 *Willem Greve (NED), Highway TN N.O.P.

2023 *McLain Ward (USA), HH Azur

2022 *Daniel Deusser (GER), Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z

2021 *Max Kühner (AUT), Elektric Blue P

2019 *Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), Toveks Mary Lou

2018 *Niels Bruynseels (BEL), Gancia de Muze 

2017 *Leopold van Asten (NED), VDL Groep Zidane N.O.P. 

2016 *Marcus Ehning (GER), Cornado NRW 

2015 *Daniel Deusser (GER), Cornet d'Amour 

2014 *Kevin Staut (FRA), Silvana*HDC

2013 Maikel van der Vleuten (NED), Kisby 

2012 Marc Houtzager (NED), Opium 

2011 Albert Zoer (NED), Sam 

2010 Kevin Staut (FRA), Silvana*HDC

2009 Albert Zoer (NED), Sam 

2008 Daniel Etter (SUI), Peu a Peu 

2007 Daniel Deusser (GER), Air Jordan Z