Brazilian show jumping rider Marlon Módolo Zanotelli secured his individual qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after a stellar performance at the FEI Olympic Qualifier in Fontainebleau, France, this past weekend. Riding his trusted horse Grand Slam VDL, Zanotelli finished second overall among non-qualified athletes, earning one of the coveted individual slots for South America.
This will be Zanotelli’s second Olympic appearance, following his debut at Tokyo 2020, where he finished in the top 15.
Near-Flawless Rounds Under Pressure
Competing against riders from Latin America, Africa, and Asia, Zanotelli produced two clear rounds, with only a slight time penalty in the final jump-off. His consistency, precision, and control under pressure impressed judges and solidified his place as one of the continent’s premier show jumpers.
“This qualification means everything to me,” Zanotelli said after the event.
“The dream started in Tokyo, but in Paris, I want to reach the podium for Brazil.”
The final saw riders navigate a technical course featuring tight turns, combinations, and a tricky water jump. Zanotelli and Grand Slam VDL handled the course with poise, highlighting their years of partnership and international experience.
Brazilian Equestrianism on the Rise
Zanotelli’s qualification is part of a broader push by the Brazilian Equestrian Confederation (CBH) to strengthen Brazil’s position in Olympic equestrian disciplines. While the country has a rich history in eventing, show jumping has emerged as Brazil’s strongest medal hope.
Zanotelli is currently ranked among the top 30 riders in the world and competes regularly on the Longines Global Champions Tour. His presence in Europe has helped connect young Brazilian riders with elite training and sponsorship opportunities.
CBH President Renato Lobo commented:
“Marlon’s qualification is strategic — it opens the door for Brazil to target individual and team medals in Paris. He’s a leader, a technician, and a fierce competitor.”
Road to Paris 2024
With qualification now confirmed, Zanotelli will focus on:
- Preparing a custom Olympic program focused on conditioning and injury prevention
- Competing selectively on the European circuit, including stops in Monaco, Valkenswaard, and Prague
- Collaborating with Brazilian teammates for potential team qualification, pending upcoming events
He will also attend Team Brazil’s Olympic training camp in July 2024, where multidisciplinary support — from veterinarians to biomechanics analysts — will be in full force.
Spotlight on Grand Slam VDL
Zanotelli’s horse, Grand Slam VDL, has become a star in his own right. The 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion is known for his athleticism and temperament, and has formed one of the sport’s most consistent pairs with Zanotelli.
Both rider and horse have been together since 2019, and their bond has been key to Brazil’s recent podiums in Nations Cups and World Cup qualifiers.
Inspiring a New Generation
Back home, Zanotelli’s success is inspiring a new wave of interest in equestrian sport. Riding schools in São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Paraná report increased enrollment, and social media clips of his Olympic campaign are being widely shared.
Zanotelli is also involved in youth programs that provide riding scholarships for underprivileged youth, and has committed to visiting Brazilian schools and riding centers in early 2025.
Conclusion: A Leap Toward History
With calm control and fearless commitment, Marlon Zanotelli has once again put Brazilian equestrianism on the global map. As Paris 2024 approaches, he carries not only the nation’s hopes — but its momentum, legacy, and love for a sport that demands precision, trust, and greatness.