The rider welcomes us in his stables after completing his warm-up with his three horses… and having had a quick afternoon nap back at the hotel, as his smiling groom informs us. 

While the young Belgian is no stranger to Palexpo, this is the first time he will attempt to qualify for the Rolex Grand Prix, which takes place on Sunday. After making his first appearance at the arena in 2019 with the U-25s, he was invited back by the CHIG for the Medium Tour events in 2023, on account of being a Young Riders Academy member. 

This evening, Spits will make his debut in the Trophée de Genève on Impress-K van't Kattenheye, the horse he won the European team title with. He will then rest him until Sunday: “The idea is to ensure he’s back in good shape for the Rolex Grand Prix. I know it’s a tough event, but I’m obviously looking to go clear. Geneva is a special competition and I’ve always loved coming here, even when I was just a spectator.” The 24-year-old is aiming to match or better his close friend and compatriot Gilles Thomas’ superb third place in last year’s Geneva leg of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. 

Judging by that and other recent performances, Belgium’s next generation looks a promising one, as its riders push each other to ever greater heights in a competitive but supportive atmosphere. Further proof of their potential came with the nation’s European title triumph in A Coruña this summer, to which Spits and Thomas made significant contributions. 

Made up of stylish, passionate riders who have the unwavering support of their respective families, it is a generation to watch. An integral part of it, Spits spent several years wavering between football – he is currently enjoying KV Mechelen’s fine run of form in the Belgian top flight – and horses. In the end, he decided to follow in the footsteps of his father, Patrik, who also rode for Belgium and has become his mentor.  

Though Spits Sr. cannot be with him in Geneva this weekend, he will have the support of his younger twin sisters, who will be celebrating their 20th birthday. “I’ll make sure I behave so I’m fit and ready for the Rolex Grand Prix,” he promises with a mischievous grin. 

What if this Sunday should see the young Belgian take another step forward in his rise to the top of world equestrianism? “It goes without saying that I’m dreaming of the Olympic Games and, in the shorter term, next year’s World Championships in Aachen. The main thing, though, is to continue building a career I can be proud of.” 

Aurore Favre