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Belgian operator Guy Jacobs crowned LANDCROS European champion

Guy Jacobs from Belgium has been crowned the winner of the inaugural LANDCROS European Operator Challenge, beating competitors from eight other European countries at the final in Amsterdam.

Jacobs competed against operators from France, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and the UK in the final, held at Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) on 11 September. The competition followed nine national qualifying rounds hosted by European dealers between May and June. The national champions then travelled to Amsterdam for eight skill-based challenges using Hitachi excavators and other machines. Jacobs won four of the eight challenges, finishing level on points with Dutch competitor Tjerk Segers but taking the overall title after completing the tasks in a faster time.

“I doubted myself all day, wondering if I was good enough, particularly after the flying bottle challenge didn’t go so well! I’m usually focused on precision and balance, but it was speed that made the difference today.”

As the winner, Jacobs receives a trip to Japan for two people.

“I’ve never been before so I’m very curious about the country and I definitely want to see the Hitachi Construction Machinery factory.”

Celebrating operators

“Congratulations to everyone who competed in the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge 2026,” said HCME Director of Marketing & Brand Communication Laura Hendriks. “Thank you for your enthusiasm, passion and camaraderie throughout the event.”

“This has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the expertise of our talented operator community, highlight the support of our dealers, and showcase the performance of some of our most popular reliable orange machines.”

The competition comes ahead of Hitachi Construction Machinery’s transition to the LANDCROS name in April 2027.

“Under the new name, our customers will continue to enjoy the same reliable performance, comfort and safety they have trusted for decades,” added Hendriks.