At the European Championship arena Casas Novas, the current world three helps both the Swedish national team and his wife Janika Sprunger, who rides individually for Switzerland.
A few hours before the time jumping, he appeared on the track and did as he usually does: paced lengths between the obstacles, tried to figure out the difficulties.
The difference was that he walked in leisure shoes, not in boots, and dressed in jeans and a sweater rather than in riding pants and the national team's dark blue competition jacket.
Rejoices with his wife
The World Champion from 2022 – individually and in the team – walked around with his wife Janika Sprunger. She made a faultless round with Orelie, to Henrik von Eckermann's joy and relief.
The horse jumped really well. One turn became a bit messy, but otherwise it was good, says von Eckermann.
He had only missed one European Championship since 2009 when he told the national team captain Henrik Ankarcrona that he did not think the current horse Minute Man was quite mature for a tough championship.
Instead, he matches the horse against the World Championship in Aachen next summer.
He admits that it was tough to stand by and follow his wife and the Swedish national team colleagues.
It's much, much more nervous than riding. It's a bit special.
The former long-time world number one also talked a lot with the Swedish riders.
Even if he is not competing, he is of course passionate about this and wants it to go well for Sweden. We are quite good at helping each other in our sport. It's just fun to discuss, says Henrik Ankarcrona.
Downplays his role
Henrik von Eckermann himself downplays his role as an advisor.
She knows what she's doing. She's good at this, but if she has any questions, she has someone to lean on. It's the same with the Swedes. If anyone asks and wants help, I'm more than happy to help, but everyone has their own plans and knows what they're doing.
What speaks in favor of it turning around for Sweden after the tough start (14th place after time jumping)?
That it's a new day tomorrow. That's how it is.
