João grew up in the heart of the Alentejo region of Portugal in Serpa. Growing up surrounded by nature, his connection to animals - and especially to horses - began early and has shaped every step of his life since. He later studied Equine Science at the Escola Superior Agrária de Elvas, part of the Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre. It was there, in a setting that combined academic learning with hands-on horsemanship, that he deepened his knowledge and refined his passion for dressage.

His professional journey started at Monte Velho Equo-Resort, where he began as an intern. Over the years, João took on increasing responsibility—first as head rider and as instructor, and eventually as head instructor.

One of the most defining chapters of João’s career was his partnership with the Lusitano stallion Equador MVL. Together, they broke new ground for Portuguese dressage and for the Lusitano breed. They made their Grand Prix debut in 2019, and within a short time, the combination was earning scores over 70% at international competitions. That same year, João and Equador MVL represented Portugal at the European Championships in Rotterdam. In 2020, they reached personal bests and set world record scores for an Iberian Horse in all three major Grand Prix tests: Grand Prix: 77.348%, Grand Prix Special: 79.043% and Grand Prix Freestyle: 83.875%

These records were achieved at the Portuguese National Championships in Alter do Chão, where they swept the Big Tour titles and made history for their country and the breed. In 2021, João had the honor of riding Equador MVL at the Tokyo Olympic Games, where he contributed to Portugal’s historic 8th place finish in the team competition and placed 29th individually. Equador MVL was a true partner, and his passing in 2022, was a deeply felt loss, both personally and for Portuguese dressage.

Today, João divides his time between Monte Velho and his own training facility, Monte Branco das Oliveiras, located near Évora Monte. João’s focus is on training, teaching, and continuing to develop horses at the highest levels of sport, while also sharing what he has learned with the next generation of riders. At Monte Velho he is riding a number of their horses including Lírio MVL, Maestro MVL, Quieto MVL and Quiebro MVL.

Lirio MVL is João’s current GP Horse. They have become 3rd at the Portuguese Championships in 2024. In 2025 they qualified for the European Championships in Crozet, FRA where they were the best Iberian Combination.

In his free time, João finds peace in gardening, and he cares for his own chickens and peacocks. Fun fact: every chicken is named after a singer—a small tradition that adds joy and personality to everyday life.