At just 21, Íñigo López de la Osa Franco is quickly establishing himself as one of Monaco’s most promising young athletes and a rising star on the international showjumping circuit. Monaco Life‘s Niki Borisova sits down with the equestrian to learn about his dedicated training programme and his clear focus on growing his career under the Monegasque flag.
“It all started with my father,” he tells Monaco Life. “He used to compete in showjumping, and one day I told him I wanted to stop studying and focus entirely on riding. That’s when the journey began.”
That journey has taken him from junior competitions to the world stage. Most recently, Íñigo competed in the Global Champions League in Mexico City—one of the most competitive legs of the circuit—where he helped his team, Stockholm Hearts, secure improved 11th and 13th-place finishes, a step up from the season opener in Doha.
Rising through the ranks
“So far, I’ve had the chance to compete with Malin Baryard and Olivier Philippaerts—some of the best riders in the world,” says Íñigo. “It’s been amazing. They’re experienced, open to sharing their knowledge, and the team has a really friendly dynamic. I feel lucky to be surrounded by them.”
Individually, he placed 20th in the 1.60m class in Mexico City—an impressive performance that marks his growing consistency.
“The horses went above expectations,” he says. “It was a tough course, so to get a solid result in that kind of environment really boosted my confidence and motivation going into the next shows.”
His favourite venue?
“Mexico City, definitely,” he says. “But also Madrid and La Coruña. There’s something special about those places.”
Íñigo is based in France, where he trains with Olympic rider Simon Delestre and his father, Marcel Delestre.
“I work mostly with Marcel, but I really admire both of them,” he enthuses. “They use the same system, just with different styles. Simon is unbelievable—he’s the only rider to stay in the world’s Top 30 for the last 20 years. Marcel is the heart of the team. I like the way they both approach the sport, and they’re always pushing me to improve.”
The connection with the Delestres came after Íñigo spent three years training in the Netherlands.
“When I left, I was looking for a new team, and thanks to my father, who had a great past with Simon—he rode my dad’s best horse—we reconnected. That’s how it all started,” he explains.
A season of opportunity
April is a busy month for the young rider. He’s already competed in Saint-Tropez and will head to Nancy from 17th to 20th April, before Fontainebleau from 25th to 27th April, as he pursues qualification for the 2025 European Championships in La Coruña. If successful, he would become the first Monegasque rider to compete at senior level in the European Championships.
“My goal is to qualify in my first year as a senior,” he says. “I have two qualifiers left. I’m doing everything I can to get there and represent Monaco—it would be an amazing experience.”
Another key date in his calendar is the Jumping International de Monte-Carlo in July, which is part of the Longines Global Champions Tour.
“Each year, the equestrian scene is growing in Monaco. There are more classes now for Monegasque riders, which is great for all of us,” he says. “I remember when we were just three juniors. Now we have full teams in every category.”
One stride at a time
Despite the intense schedule, Íñigo says rest is essential.
“I focus a lot on recovery and sleep. It helps me perform,” he says. “There’s pressure, of course, but I manage it by staying focused on my goals and sticking to my plan.”
Outside the ring, Íñigo hits the gym to stay in peak physical condition.
“The stronger I am, the easier it is with the horses,” he explains. He also enjoys watching football, tennis and Formula One.
His greatest inspiration is close to home: “Simon Delestre is my biggest role model. I’m lucky to ride alongside him. Sharing the ring with him is special.”
Looking back, Íñigo sees the youth competition system as key to his development.
“Youth categories are important—they give you the skills you need to progress,” he says. “The U25 circuit is the next step, and there you ride with the two best competitors from each country. It really prepares you for top-level sport.”
With strong international performances, elite training and sharp focus, Íñigo López de la Osa Franco is carving out his place in elite showjumping.
His advice for aspiring riders? “Be patient, focus on yourself, and take your time.”
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Photos credit: Rodrigo Ceceña by UnoyCuatro