Kristina Klebanova, just 20 years old, is a rising star in the world of show jumping, admired for her determination, humility, and the profound bond she shares with her horses. Born in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and raised in Monaco since childhood, she discovered an undeniable connection to the sport from her very first ride as a little girl—a passion that has driven her ever since to compete at the highest level.
In this interview, Kristina looks back on her remarkable journey so far: from her unforgettable home victory at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Monaco to the quiet, grounding moments she treasures in the stables. She speaks candidly about the challenges of balancing school, friendships, and the demands of elite sport, the mentors and supporters who have guided her along the way, and her biggest dream for the future—representing her country on the greatest stage of all: the Olympic Games.
HelloMonaco: Kristina, what has it really been like to call Monaco home?
Kristina Klebanova: Growing up in Monaco has been very special, I will forever be grateful for this to my parents. It’s a small place, but that’s what makes it feel like a community. And of course, the safety in Monaco is something I appreciate more and more as I get older.
HM: Do you feel Monaco has shaped you, not just as a rider, but as a person?
Kristina: Definitely. Monaco has a strong sense of tradition but also an international spirit, and I think that has shaped me to stay grounded while being open to the world. As a rider, I’m proud to represent the Fédération Equestre de la Principauté de Monaco which might be small, but has a big heart. I am very thankful to them for the opportunities that they give me, which help me to grow and develop as a professional athlete.
(photo: 1clicphoto)
HM: Where in Monaco do you feel happiest?
Kristina: Honestly, I feel happiest at home when I’m in Monaco. Since 14 years old, I’ve started living alone between Monaco and Germany, so these days just coming home and relaxing is something I appreciate a lot.
HM: Winning at LGCT Monaco—what did you feel in those final seconds?
Kristina: It’s hard to describe. I think my heart stopped for a second as I crossed the finish line and realized we were clear. It was relief, joy, and disbelief all mixed together.
HM: Did it feel even more special with the crowd full of familiar faces?
Kristina: So much more special. Seeing my family and friends cheering gave me extra courage. To share that moment with people who know how much work goes into it—that meant everything. It was great to produce such a result for my team, I think we all needed that.
HM: What do you love most about Diamanda 4, your horse?
Kristina: She has such a big heart. She always gives her best, and she’s taught me so much about trust and patience. Scope, carefulness, speed, intelligence and most of all bravery — Diamanda has it all, there’s nothing more you can look for in a horse! Our bond comes from spending time together, not just training but the quiet moments in the stables.
HM: Who are the people you lean on most?
Kristina: My dad plays a very big role in my life. He is very supportive and is always there for me in both the good and the bad moments. This really helps me to progress as an athlete in my sport. My mom has also been a huge part of my journey. When I first started riding, she was the one helping me in the stables every day — grooming, tacking up etc. She’s always been deeply involved and understands what it takes behind the scenes, which makes her support even more special. I’m very lucky with my team. My trainer Karl, of course, guides me every step of the way, and his wife Alexandra helps manage everything. My grooms, Justina and Salbii, not only take care of the horses but also of me. They are almost like my second parents; we’ve been working together since I was 16 years old. And then my parents and close friends — they give me balance and remind me who I am outside of riding.
HM: Do you remember your first time on a horse?
Kristina: Yes, very clearly. I was just a little girl, but I felt something click immediately. I didn’t know back then how far it would take me, but I knew I wanted more of that feeling.
HM: What keeps your heart in it on tough days?
Kristina: Just taking a moment and realizing how lucky I am. Sometimes we are so busy in our own lives, that we don’t take the time to stop and look around to realize we have everything we’ve once dreamed of. I guess that also comes from being hard on yourself and always wanting to do better.
HM: What little moments make you happiest?
Kristina: It’s the simple things—when the horses nicker as I walk into the stable, or when I hack them quietly and feel them relax. Those moments mean just as much as any competition.
HM: How do you balance school, friendships, and sport?
Kristina: It’s not always easy, but I try to stay organized and accept that I can’t do everything perfectly. My friends understand, and my family supports me. And school, I do it online, so I can make it fit around my schedule.
HM: What does a perfect day look like?
Kristina: I would say my win in Monaco would be a good example!
HM: What dreams are next?
Kristina: Of course, championships are always in my mind—especially the European Championships and Nations Cups. Those team events are very special to me. And one day, the Olympics representing Monaco would be a dream come true.
HM: How do you want to be remembered?
Kristina: I hope people remember me not only for my results but also as someone who was kind, respectful, and who loved her horses. Just a real horse girl to the core!
HM: Beyond the sport—what else lights you up?
Kristina: Horses definitely light me up the most. When I was younger it was hard to find anything else which interested me but nowadays just spending time with my friends and family is what really makes me shine outside of the arena. So I’d say the simpler things!
