Monica Theodorescu and Otto Becker are known for their clear and open communication. This applies to their squad selection, but also to the topic of horse welfare. In the new episode of the CHIO Aachen podcast, the long-standing national coaches for dressage and show jumping talk about the correct way to treat horses and riders and allow themselves to get emotional as they recall moments that gave them goosebumps.

It is 2006, between the two rounds of the Nations’ Cup at the World Equestrian Games. Floodlights, a sold-out Main Stadium in Aachen’s world-famous Soers. But for a few minutes, the focus is not on sporting performance, but on a striking grey horse named Cento: Otto Becker’s exceptional horse is being retired – accompanied by a standing ovation. ‘It was a very emotional moment, I almost get teary-eyed when I think back on it,’ says Otto Becker in the CHIO Aachen podcast.

In the second part of the double episode with the two national coaches, the discussion focuses on horses that shaped the active careers of Otto Becker in show jumping and Monica Theodorescu in dressage. They also talk about the focus for the coming year, when Aachen will once again host the World Championships in equestrian sports. Everyone agrees that the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 in six disciplines will be extraordinary for riders and coaches alike. With Otto Becker’s return to the place where he not only celebrated great sporting successes but also experienced great emotions with the aforementioned farewell to Cento, the 66-year-old has come full circle, so to speak. ‘Of course, I will think about this moment in a quiet minute and maybe even shed a tear, but otherwise I will be there entirely as a coach and naturally focus on the sport.’

Of course, the national coaches are aware that their profession, more than almost any other, is repeatedly subject to criticism – and they even welcome it. ‘People often speak disrespectfully about animal rights activists attending competitions. But I take these voices very seriously, because I am also an animal rights activist,’ says Monica Theodorescu. As coaches, they often have to take a clear stand in public, but that is also necessary. ‘We are role models and must also demonstrate exemplary performance and exemplary treatment of horses, and that is what we stand for,’ emphasises the long-standing national dressage coach.

They are just as responsible for their riders as they are for their horses, most of whom they have been working with for years. In contrast to their own active careers, mental coaching is becoming increasingly important. ‘And that’s a good thing,’ says Otto Becker.

In the latest episode of the CHIO Aachen podcast, the national coaches talk about how they deal with various challenges, what tips they have for young riders, and why Otto Becker’s car suddenly became the number one topic of conversation at the Olympic Games in Paris. You can find it here and wherever podcasts are available.