Off The Clock: Piergiorgio Bucci’s Season of a Lifetime

Ten years after claiming his first LGCT podiums, Piergiorgio Bucci is proving that some of the best chapters are written later.

At 50 years old, the Italian rider is enjoying one of the most consistent seasons of his career. Three LGCT appearances have produced three podium finishes—each alongside Pallieter vd N.Ranch—and a partnership that continues to grow stronger with every round.

In the latest episode of Off The Clock, Bucci reflects on the journey that brought him to the top of international show jumping, the experience gained across a decade on Tour and why he may be a better rider now than ever before.

Ten years on

Bucci’s first LGCT podiums came in 2016. A decade later, he remains firmly among the sport’s leading names—but with a different perspective shaped by experience, patience and an even greater appreciation of success.

His 2026 campaign began with third place in Miami Beach, followed by victory in Mexico City and second place in Monaco. In doing so, Bucci became the first rider this season to secure three LGCT podium finishes, achieving the feat across his first three appearances.

Arriving in London, he immediately continued that form with another win aboard Pallieter on the opening day of competition.

The results have placed Bucci 11th in the Championship and established 2026 as a potentially defining season in an already distinguished career.

The beauty of show jumping

Few sports allow an athlete to reach 50 and potentially produce the best performances of their career. For Bucci, that longevity is part of what makes show jumping so special.

Raw talent remains essential, but experience brings something different: the patience to develop a horse correctly, the confidence to trust a partnership and the perspective to recognise just how difficult successful seasons are to achieve.

A decade after his first LGCT podiums, winning may feel different—but it has lost none of its significance.

The partnership behind the results

At the heart of Bucci’s remarkable season is Pallieter vd N.Ranch.

The 11-year-old gelding only joined Bucci’s string last year, making their rapid rise particularly impressive. Every one of Bucci’s LGCT podium finishes this season has come aboard Pallieter, with the pair demonstrating consistency across three very different venues.

Their partnership is still relatively new, but the results suggest there may be even more to come. From the expansive grass arena in Mexico City to the unique demands of Monaco, Pallieter has shown the scope, adaptability and competitive instinct required to perform at the highest level.

Another victory in London only strengthened the sense that this partnership is continuing to develop.

Ten years after his first LGCT podiums, Piergiorgio Bucci is not looking back on a career. At 50, with a new partnership, three podiums from three appearances and one of the most consistent seasons of any rider on Tour, he may just be writing one of his best chapters yet.

Watch the full episode of Off The Clock with Piergiorgio Bucci now.