Monaco’s Íñigo López de la Osa Franco has finished seventh in the individual show jumping final at the 2026 Mediterranean Games in Taranto, a strong result for the Principality’s pioneering rider and the youngest in the top ten.
Riding Désirée E Z, the 23-year-old came through both the qualifiers and a two-round final, completing the competition with five penalties from a field of 26 to take his place in the top ten, where he was the only rider under 27. It was his first Mediterranean Games, and came as part of Monaco’s first appearance in the team equestrian event, contested this year at a venue built inside a former quarry.
“It was a unique and thrilling experience at the Taranto Games,” said López de la Osa Franco. “We hoped for the podium right to the end, but I’m satisfied with the result, which leaves us with a smile and good prospects for the months ahead. It was an honour to represent Monaco. The journey continues.”
He thanked his coach, Marcel Delestre, and his team, singling out his “extraordinary” horse, Désirée E Z.
A pioneer for Monaco
The result caps a landmark year for López de la Osa Franco, who has become the first male Monegasque rider to compete at the sport’s highest levels. In recent months he has ridden in the FEI Jumping World Cup and the Global Champions League, and only weeks before Taranto he took part in the 2026 World Championships, helping to establish Monaco’s place in international show jumping.
See also:
Interview: Monaco’s show jumping prodigy Íñigo López de la Osa Franco
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