The rider cruised to his first-ever Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix Victory to the delight of home-country fans in Mexico City.

An elite international field of 37 competed for a chunk of the €327,000 purse, including Canada's Erynn Ballard.

International and home-grown winners were celebrated in Mexico City in four categories: Best Athlete, Rising Star, Best Groom and Inspire.

The team of Christian Ahlmann and Katrin Eckermann moved into pole position for Saturday's Global Champions League showdown.