Just days before the kick-off of the 2026 World Championships for young dressage horses, the German team has undergone a change. Johanna Wadenspanner and DSP Valentin have been withdrawn.
The first reserve has been called up to replace them
DSP Valentin
DSP Valentin a 6-year old Bavarian warmblood by Vitalis out of Desideria (by Don Schufro x Royal Diamond). He is bred by Jutta Steidl.
Owned by stallion station Wadenspanner, the gelding was first competed by Walter Wadenspanner in 2024 and placed 7th at the Bundeschampionate. In 2025 Johanna took over the ride and qualified him on the German team for the World Young Horse Championships in Verden, where they were 12th in the 5-year old finals.
This year Walter and Johanna shared the ride and the horse did four shows, his last in May at M-level. He was selected on the German team for Verden, but has been withdrawn.
"Unfortunately, Valentin has developed a splint," Johanna told Eurodressage. "We aren’t entirely sure whether it happened outside at the field or in his stall. It’s nothing too serious in itself, but the timing is really unfortunate; sadly, it means he won’t be fit for next week."
Reserve Called Up
Sofie exceeded all her expectations when she got named first reserve. "It was just a crazy idea to head to the WCYH selection trials on our way home from a Bundeschampionate qualifier and then it turned out into an incredible nomination for the second trial and then the first reserve spot," she beamed. "we're speechless and proud of our little Bilbo."
Photos © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Eurodressage Coverage of the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses
German Horses Selected for 2026 World Young Horse Championships