The promising Salerno was approved by the KWPN at the end of 2025. In his pedigree, the Grand Prix stallion Carrera VDL is paired with a strong damline that traces back to the Grand Prix horse Loro Piana Havinia in the fourth generation. Ridden by Gianni Govoni, Havinia placed fifth individually at the WEG in Jerez de la Frontera.
Sire Carrera VDL was represented by three offspring at the 2025 European Championships in La Coruña. He continues to make his mark through successful progeny at the highest level, including Mister Jup, Carabella vd Neyen Z, and Komboy. The dam Klavertje is closely related to the Olympic showjumper Ilex, ridden by McLain Ward. Just like Klavertje, Ilex is sired by top progenitor Baltic VDL and has the Burggraaf daughter Oleaster as its granddam. Salerno’s granddam Gember is a half-sister to the 1.50/1.55m-level horses Imbeer and Untouchable Z . In the fourth generation, the line returns to the top-level horse Havinia. This direct damline has also produced 1.55/1.60m horses such as Kivinia, Favinia, Zinius, and Kriek. In the KWPN performance test, Salerno clearly demonstrated his talent. He has a light-footed canter, and consistently impresses with his technique, use of the body, and scope.