Julien Épaillard won the opening speed round at the World Equestrian Championships in Aachen, riding a clear round in 70.6 seconds to finish ahead of a 145-rider field. Harry Smolders and Scott Brash completed the podium in the Table C event.
Sweden's Peder Fredricson lost both shoes on Alcapone des Carmille during the time trial and finished 41st of 105 combinations. Sweden sits 12th in the team standings after day one with 9.64 total penalties. Defending individual champion Henrik von Eckermann, who has held the title since 2022, continues his campaign.
Austria's Max Kühner and Katharina Rhomberg each recorded two faults in the time trial, placing 75th and 65th respectively, leaving Austria likely out of medal contention after the first day. Felix Koller finished 24th with a clear round on Cossinelle in his World Championships debut. Belgium's Red Musketeers sit second in the team competition behind Germany.