Belgian operator Guy Jacobs is crowned Europe’s finest

Talented operators from nine countries competed for the accolade in the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge

The final of the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge has found the most talented operator in Europe – Guy Jacobs from Belgium. He competed against eight other contestants from France, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and the UK to win the competition, which was held at Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) in Amsterdam.

The inaugural event on 11 September followed nine qualifying rounds hosted locally by leading European dealers between May and June. The national champions then met in Amsterdam to compete in eight fun and engaging skill-based tasks, using reliable orange Hitachi machines to demonstrate their capabilities.

Guy emerged as the winner after winning four of the tasks – he achieved the same score as second-placed Dutch competitor Tjerk Segers but completed the challenges 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.”

In recognition of his achievement, Guy receives an exclusive trip for two to Japan. “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 and the Reliable Orange

“Congratulations to everyone who competed in the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge 2026,” said HCME Director 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 precedes Hitachi Construction Machinery’s transition to LANDCROS 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 Laura.