Cecilia Bergåkra Makes History Again as First Swedish Rider to Top FEI U25 World Ranking

Sales and Training

Just months after becoming the first Swedish rider to win the Lövsta Future Challenge International Tour in Gothenburg, Swedish dressage rider and NorCordia Partner Cecilia Bergåkra has written another chapter in the history books by becoming the first Swedish rider ever to top the FEI U25 Dressage World Ranking.

The 24-year-old rider, who is based in Denmark, climbed from third place to the top of the rankings on 1,688 points together with her longtime partner My Friend, overtaking Dutch riders Robin Heiden and Lara van Nek.

The achievement marks yet another milestone for Bergåkra. Earlier this year she became the first Swedish rider ever to win the Lövsta Future Challenge International Tour at Gothenburg Horse Show, a feat previously reported by Eurodressage. Now she has become the first Swedish rider to reach the top of the FEI U25 Dressage World Ranking.

Another Historic Milestone

For Bergåkra, the ranking comes as the reward for years of dedicated work and consistent performances on the international stage.

"I'm very proud of My Friend, my NorCordia Team, and everyone around us for being so consistent over such a long period of time. Thank you to everyone who supports us and all the people who cheer us on," said Bergåkra.

Despite a season filled with success, reaching the top of the FEI rankings still came as a surprise.

"I can hardly believe it. There are so many talented U25 combinations around the world, and to see our name at number one is something I never thought possible."

Developed My Friend to International Grand Prix

The achievement is particularly significant because Bergåkra has produced the 14-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare My Friend (by Friendship x Troll) herself from a young horse to international Grand Prix level.

The combination has steadily progressed through the ranks over recent years, establishing itself among Europe's leading U25 partnerships. Their rise to the top of the FEI rankings is the result of patient development, consistency, and a long-term approach to training and competition.

Success Beyond the U25 Division

While continuing to excel in the U25 division, Bergåkra has also established herself among Sweden's senior elite.

At the Swedish Senior Dressage Championships in Strömsholm in May, she secured the bronze medal, finishing behind Patrik Kittel and Maria von Essen. The result further confirmed her successful transition into senior Grand Prix competition while still being eligible for U25 competition.

Combined with her historic rise to the top of the FEI U25 rankings, the championship medal underlines the consistency she and My Friend have demonstrated throughout the season.

Looking Ahead

As a NorCordia Partner, Bergåkra continues to demonstrate the consistency, dedication, and long-term vision that have defined her journey to the top of international dressage.

With a bronze medal at the Swedish Senior Championships, a historic FEI U25 World No. 1 ranking, and continued success at Grand Prix level, the first half of the season has already been exceptional for Bergåkra and My Friend.

The months ahead promise to be equally exciting. Alongside My Friend, Bergåkra will continue developing and showcasing several talented NorCordia Sales horses, while further establishing herself as one of Scandinavia's most promising dressage riders.

-- NorCordia press release