Jovian Dies at Age 11–World Young Horse Champion, Danish Team Championship Medalist

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Jovian ridden by Andreas Helgstrand at the European Championships. 2025 Ken Braddick/DRESSAGE-NEWS.com

Sept. 5, 2025

Jovian, the two-time world young horse champion and on Denmark’s European Championships bronze medal team last week, has died in complications during surgery at Helgstrand Dressage in Uggerhalne, Denmark.

Jovian was 11 years old and had been a successful stallion as well as competition mount.

Helgstrand Dressage said in a statement, “Following long and careful consideration, we decided to have him gelded, but unfortunately, complications arose during the procedure. Despite the veterinarians’ tireless efforts, his life could not be saved.

“This loss leaves all of Helgstrand Dressage in deep sadness–especially his rider, Andreas Helgstrand, and his longtime groom, Mikala Krog, who both shared a close and special bond with Jovian for many years.

“Jovian had an extraordinary career and was truly a horse in a class of his own. With his majestic movements and explosive presence, he captivated the dressage world and was loved by many.He made history with victories at the World Championships for Young Horses, both as a 5-year-old (scoring no fewer than four 10s) and as a 7-year-old, when he set the record for the highest score in the championship’s history. He also contributed to two Danish bronze medals at the European Championships and achieved top placings in both CDI5* and World Cup competitions.

“As a breeding stallion, Jovian left a strong mark with a large number of promising offspring who will carry on his genes and legacy.

“With Jovian’s passing, we have lost the king of our stable. It is an irreplaceable loss for all of us, but the memories of him will live on, both here at Helgstrand Dressage and among his many fans.”

Jovian with Andreas Helgstrand celebrating victory in the World Young Horse five-year-old championship in 2019. © Ken Braddick/DRESSAGE-NEWS.com