Horse Sport Ireland has appointed one of the nation’s most decorated show jumping figures to lead its High Performance Jumping programme into a crucial period, with Jessica Kürten taking the reins as High Performance Jumping Manager ahead of the 2026 World Championships and the LA28 Olympic Games.

The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process and places a legendary Irish equestrian at the helm of a programme with strong ambitions on the world stage.

Kürten arrives with a pedigree few can match—former world number two, dual Olympian, European gold medallist, and Aga Khan Trophy winner—and with a depth of coaching, governance and leadership experience that stretches well beyond her competitive achievements.

Her international career saw her compete at the Atlanta and Athens Olympic Games, while her role in Ireland’s 2001 European Championship gold established her as one of the most influential riders of her generation. Since retirement from elite competition, she has continued to shape the sport as a Level 3 coach, team manager, broadcaster, and FEI Athlete Representative, working across elite performance, athlete welfare, and governance.

Speaking about her appointment, Kürten said she was eager to build momentum:

“I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as Ireland’s new High Performance Jumping Manager,” said Kürten, one of Ireland’s most successful international riders. “Ireland has a strong track record in Jumping and I look forward to working closely with all members of the team, with HSI and with all the other stakeholders to ensure that we put ourselves in the best possible position.

“I am hugely excited for about our prospects for the World Championships next year and for the European Championships and Olympics in 2028. I will bring all of my experience to fostering a collaborative and successful culture within the Irish team.”

HSI Chief Executive Denis Duggan welcomed the appointment, noting both her competitive record and her strategic capability:

“Jessica Kürten is one of the most iconic figures in Irish jumping, and her record speaks for itself,” said Duggan. “Her combination of competitive excellence, coaching expertise, leadership experience and international governance knowledge will further strengthen Ireland’s position on the world stage.”

Kürten steps into a role previously held by Michael Blake, whose tenure delivered significant success. Horse Sport Ireland paid tribute to his contribution and signalled confidence that Kürten’s blend of elite insight, technical knowledge, and leadership will help the sport maintain—and build upon—its current standing.

Her remit will include planning and delivering the senior programme, supporting athletes and support teams at Nations Cups and Championships, and strengthening the pathway from development squads through to the highest level.

With Aachen 2026 and Los Angeles 2028 on the immediate horizon, Kürten’s appointment comes at a pivotal point for Irish show jumping. The sport is in a position of global strength, with depth in both athletes and horses, and Horse Sport Ireland is banking on her experience and credibility to sustain that competitiveness and provide fresh impetus for the next Olympic cycle.

 

Sport for Business Perspective

This is a strong appointment that will be welcomed by riders and feared by international competitors, a perfect way to end the year or Horse Sport ireland.

 

Image Credit: Sport for Business

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