Ben Maher’s Explosion W to Retire at London International Horse Show
British showjumping will bid farewell to one of its greatest ever horses this December, as three-time Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher prepares to retire his legendary partner Explosion W at the London International Horse Show. The emotional ceremony is scheduled for Sunday evening 21 December at ExCeL London. It will mark the end of an extraordinary career for the 16-year-old chestnut gelding. He captured hearts worldwide.
Owned by Charlotte Rossetter and Pamela Wright, Explosion W has become one of the most successful and beloved showjumping horses in modern equestrian sport. His partnership with Maher reached its pinnacle at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where the pair claimed individual gold in a thrilling jump-off decided by just 17 hundredths of a second.
A Career of Exceptional Achievement
The 2021 season proved to be Explosion W’s crowning year. Before their Olympic triumph, Maher and the fiery chestnut secured multiple CSI5* victories, including the Grand Prix at Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Valkenswaard. Their outstanding form continued throughout the year, culminating in victory at the prestigious IJRC Top 10 Final in December.
Explosion W is renowned for his exceptional scope and brilliant technique. He has remarkable consistency at the highest level of showjumping competition. Explosion W has remained a true crowd favourite on the 5* circuit. His fiery spirit and presence have made him instantly recognisable to showjumping fans both in Britain and internationally.
An Emotional Homecoming
London International Horse Show, the UK’s premier indoor equestrian event with over 100 years of history, provides the perfect stage for such a momentous occasion. Maher, a regular competitor in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ at the show and a stalwart of British international teams, will lead the special retirement ceremony.
“Explosion has been the horse of a lifetime,” Maher reflected on the announcement. “I always knew he had something special – an incredible will to win and a presence that captured everyone’s attention. We have shared unforgettable moments together, and it feels right to celebrate his retirement in front of a home crowd at London International Horse Show.”
Show Chairman Simon Brooks-Ward commented: “Explosion W is one of the greatest showjumping horses and his achievements with Ben have been a privilege for us all to witness on a global stage. We are honoured that Ben, Charlotte, and Pamela have chosen London International Horse Show as the place to celebrate this remarkable horse’s career. It promises to be an emotional and historic occasion for everyone who loves the sport.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Explosion W, throughout his career, has shown the qualities of truly exceptional showjumping horses. These qualities include power, agility, heart, and an unwavering competitive spirit. His partnership with Maher has produced countless memorable moments and inspired a generation of riders and fans.
The retirement ceremony on 21 December promises to be a fitting tribute to a horse who has given so much to British showjumping and the sport internationally. It will undoubtedly be an emotional farewell for all who have followed his remarkable journey.
London International Horse Show 2025
The 2025 edition of London International Horse Show, taking place from 18–22 December at ExCeL London, promises to be another unmissable event. Alongside Explosion W’s retirement ceremony, the show will feature FEI World Cup™ Jumping, Dressage, and Driving qualifiers, plus the festive entertainment and shopping experience that have made it a highlight of the equestrian calendar.
Tickets for London International Horse Show 2025 are available now at londonhorseshow.com.