Ben Maher, a regular competitor in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ at the Show, and stalwart of the British international teams, will lead a special retirement ceremony honouring Explosion’s extraordinary career on Sunday Evening 21 December in what is set to be an emotional farewell for the hugely popular horse.
The chestnut gelding, now 16 years old, is one of the most successful and beloved showjumping horses in the world. Together with Maher, Explosion W captured the hearts of fans around the world with his brilliance, power, and remarkable consistency at the very highest level of competition. Their crowning moment came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where they claimed individual gold.
The subsequent 2021 season was an exceptional one for the pair. Before their Olympic triumph, Maher and Explosion secured several CSI5* victories, including the Grand Prix at Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Valkenswaard. Their outstanding form continued throughout the year, culminating in a win at the prestigious IJRC Top 10 Final in December.
In recent years Explosion has remained a true crowd favourite on the 5* circuit, both among his home nation and his international following – renowned for his fiery spirit and exceptional scope. London International Horse Show, the UK’s premier indoor show with over 100 years of history, is the most fitting place to retire a showjumping star of such prestige.
Reflecting on the announcement, Maher said: “Explosion has been the horse of a lifetime. I always knew he had something special – an incredible will to win and a presence that captured everyone’s attention. We have shared unforgettable moments together, and it feels right to celebrate his retirement in front of a home crowd at London International Horse Show.”
Show Chairman Simon Brooks-Ward commented: “Explosion W is one of the greatest showjumping horses and his achievements with Ben have been a privilege for us all to witness on a global stage. We are honoured that Ben, Charlotte, and Pamela have chosen London International Horse Show as the place to celebrate this remarkable horse’s career. It promises to be an emotional and historic occasion for everyone who loves the sport.”
The 2025 edition of London International Horse Show promises to be another unmissable event, featuring FEI World Cup™ Jumping, Dressage, and Driving qualifiers – alongside the festive entertainment and shopping experience that have made it a highlight of the equestrian calendar.
To purchase your tickets to London International Horse Show 2025, please click here.
Source: London International Horse Show press release
