German Olympic rider Christian Kukuk omitted from Aachen World Championships team

Olympic show‑jumping gold medallist Christian Kukuk, who has recently become a freelance rider, was left out of the German squad for the home World Championships in Aachen. The 36‑year‑old said he was shocked and disappointed by the decision of national coach Otto Becker, describing it as a "break of trust" and expressing frustration that he will only travel as a reserve rider.

Kukuk entered the reserve list after fellow rider André Thieme voluntarily gave up his spot, moving him up in the world‑ranking. He will be able to ride his horse Checker thanks to a special agreement with the horse’s owners – footballer Thomas Müller and patron Madeleine Winter‑Schulze – who allow him to continue using the mount in exchange for participation in the Global Champions Tour with the Beerbaum team. Kukuk hopes no further changes occur and that he will be called up if another rider withdraws.