Robert Whitaker and Vermento have secured their place in Hickstead history after claiming a remarkable third victory in the Al Shira'aa King George V Gold Cup. The reigning champions added the 2026 title to their previous successes in 2023 and 2025 on the final day of the Agria Royal International Horse Show. Their achievement marks the first time in more than 70 years that the same horse has won this prestigious class three times.
Vermento, a 13-year-old son of Argento, has now matched the record first established when Foxhunter carried Harry Llewellyn to a third victory in 1953. Robert and Vermento have also become the first horse-and-rider partnership of the modern era to accomplish the feat. Robert's third King George success also brings him level with his father, John Whitaker, who won the class on three occasions. Uncle Michael Whitaker remains ahead with four victories, while David Broome still holds the overall rider record with six wins.
A Composed Performance in the Jump-Off
Starting eighth in the opening round, Robert and Vermento produced the first of five clear rounds to qualify for the jump-off. Their early qualification meant they would return first to tackle the shortened course. Robert chose a measured approach, aiming to apply pressure while avoiding unnecessary risks, and guided Vermento to another faultless round in 43.34 seconds to establish the target for the remaining riders.
Canada's Nicole Walker and Panter JVH briefly looked capable of taking the lead after recording a quicker time. However, a slip while turning near the Open Water interrupted their rhythm and resulted in the final fence being lowered. Brazil's Stephanie Macieira completed the only other double clear aboard Novak De Kalvarie but finished just over a second behind Robert to secure second place. Jack Whitaker and Jack JL finished fourth after two fences down, while Jessica Mendoza and Summerhouse completed the top five.
An Emotional Milestone
Following the victory, Robert reflected on the significance of winning the King George V Gold Cup for a third time. He explained that, despite being first to jump in the final round, he focused on producing a careful round in the large arena rather than taking unnecessary chances. Although he believed he had been slightly slower than planned, his clear round ultimately proved enough to secure another historic victory.
Robert also acknowledged the continued support of Vermento's owners, Caroline and Stephen Blatchford, describing them as fantastic owners and highlighting the promising horses they have coming through.
UAE Riders Lead the Young Horse Final
Earlier on the final day, the United Arab Emirates secured first and second places in the Breen Equestrian CSIYH1* Final. Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi claimed victory aboard the eight-year-old mare Biarritz Z, finishing 0.93 seconds ahead of fellow UAE rider Abdullah Mohd Al Marri riding the seven-year-old Troy Z. Omar praised his mare's ability and expressed confidence in her future potential at the highest level.
With the Agria Royal International Horse Show now concluded, attention turns to the Al Shira'aa British Young Horse Championships, which will take place at Hickstead from 13 to 16 August, where spectator admission and parking will be free.
In summary, Robert Whitaker and Vermento have written another memorable chapter in the history of the Al Shira'aa King George V Gold Cup by securing an unprecedented third victory together in the modern era. Their performance will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2026 Agria Royal International Horse Show.
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