Britain team wins Equestrianism gold ahead of USA and France

Britain secured their third team win in the discipline with just two-time penalties and zero knocked-off rails, while the United States had 4 and France had 7 penalty points.

The victory added to Britain's team eventing gold earlier in the week.

"I think the message back home is that we brought back gold medals, I think we've done our country proud," Brash told reporters.

"These horses are looked after unbelievably well. They're our family, you know. They're amazing athletes. We want equestrianism to stay in the Olympic Games. It's so important."

Riders were asked to steer their mounts over 14 obstacles reminiscent of Paris landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame cathedral, some as high as 1.65 metres (5.41 feet), in just under 80 seconds.

Charles, on 15-year-old bay gelding Romeo 88, had one of the day's best performances, incurring no penalties.

The crowd erupted in cheers when French first-time Olympian Olivier Perreau - called in as a replacement after another rider's horse failed the veterinary check - also had a perfect ride on Dorai D'Aiguilly, briefly lifting his team to top spot.

French President Emmanuel Macron was among the 16,500 spectators watching the horses perform against the backdrop of the famous Versailles chateau.

The track was tough compared to other events; riders told reporters. "It's the maximum level you could possibly have in terms of technical challenges," Germany's Christian Kukuk said.

Germany finished in fifth place, failing to secure a medal for the second consecutive time in a discipline they previously excelled in.

On Thursday, Germany showcased an outstanding performance, however, their qualification scores were reset for the finals on Friday.

The defending Olympic champions, Sweden, led by the top-ranked rider Henrik von Eckermann and his horse King Edward, ended up in sixth place.

Mexico, who had high expectations for a medal, had to pull out on Friday morning due to veterinary issues concerning one of their horses. The team had no alternative after another one of their mounts did not pass the pre-competition vet examinations.

SportsLigue