Reigning European champions and world number ones Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus delivered a stunning performance at the FEI dressage World Cup qualifier in Equita Lyon, achieving a personal best score of 81.2%, breaking the 80% barrier for the first time. This marks their sixth consecutive personal best and a remarkable improvement of nearly seven percentage points since early 2025. Their test was highlighted by exceptional piaffe, passage, and pirouettes, earning multiple high marks including perfect 10s, showcasing Zonik’s maturity and relaxed focus under Justin’s guidance.

While their score remains below Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro’s world record of 87.46%, the trajectory of the nine-year-old stallion suggests further progress is likely. British rider Becky Moody and Jagerbomb secured second place with 76.2%, followed by Poland’s Sandra Sysojeva on Maxima Bella with 72.63%. Verboomen expressed pride in Zonik’s sensitivity and ability to focus, crediting peaceful training conditions for their recent success and signaling their status as the current leading dressage combination globally.