Name, age colour sex, breeding, (sire x dam sire), owners

An explanation of this horse and rider’s recent form.

Treworra, 14 b g. Jaguar Mail x Tower Of Magic xx, Angela Hislop

Beautifully bred for Burghley with 80% thoroughbred, the 17hh Treworra is a fast and brilliant jumper who hasn’t finished outside the top 10 in all eight runs this year. Last year’s British open champion, he had a rare run-out last Burghley, but was fifth at Badminton this spring. He is capable of a competitive dressage and could go top five again.

HSH Tolan King, 11 b g,
Tolan R x Porter Rhodes xx,
Tolan King Partnership

The pathfinder. Made his five-star debut in Maryland last year, where 20 penalties put them well down the order. They finished mid-division at Kentucky CCI5* with a clear cross-country in April. They’ve had a couple of national runs since, but another 20 penalties implies they’re here more for experience than taking the crown.

Global Quest, 13 b g,
Metropole x Big Sink Hope,
Diana & Lance Morrish

The horse was produced by the late Georgie Campbell up to four-star, and made his five-star debut last Pau. A pin and slow time at Kentucky this year when a competitive position was compromised by Tim’s plated shoulder “coming apart” mid-round. Tim’s quest for a second Burghley win is likely to come via his stablemate, but could be top 10.

Ballyneety Silver Service,
11 gr g, Butlers Cravat x
Great Palm, Fi & Issy Saxby

This striking grey was the first inside the time at Badminton in the spring, though was kept out of the prize money with poor dressage and showjumping performances. He has a decent five-star CV with two cross-country clears so far, but showjumping is his bête noire. Retired at Hartpury last run after two stops but this is a blip on an otherwise excellent record.

Clever Trick, 14 b m,
Financial Reward xx
x Bonnie Prince xx,
Anne Marling,
Sue Wilkinson & rider

Susie’s top horse, with two European Championships completions to her name. Endured a rocky start to this season with two rider falls. They have partially regrouped, with three confidence-boosting clears in the bank, but racked up cross-country faults last time out at Hartpury. This blood mare is rapid and could impress across country on her Burghley debut.

Hawk Eye, 14 b g,
Beach Ball x unlisted,
Helen Scott

This will be the Irish-bred’s second attempt at Burghley after making his five-star debut here last season (19th). Yet to jump clear across country at this level, but notched up a second and seventh in large, competitive CCI4*-S sections at Thoresby and Burgham this season. With more experience at five-star now, this is one to keep an eye on.

Lionel II, 14 ch g,
Silver Baron x Cavalier,
Joy Soar

Mary represented Britain at juniors and young riders – and her mother Debbie won junior European gold. Lionel is Mary’s only advanced ride. They completed Pau on their five-star debut last year with 20 penalties, their only cross-country jumping faults since 2019. Dressage and showjumping look like tough going, but Lionel should give Mary a good spin.

Redfield Fyre, 13 b g,
Canabis Z x Guidam, rider

Cassie impressed on her Burghley debut last year with “Yogi” to finish 17th aged just 20, but their five-star bubble burst with a horse fall at Badminton. Normally ultra-reliable in this phase, they’ve had four reassuring cross-country clears since and will be hoping for a repeat showing. A patchy showjumping record, with no fault-free rounds since June 2025.

Domasco, 13 b g,
Zoffany x King’s Best xx,
rider’s parents Rob &
Jean Johnstone & rider

Clarke, who is currently based in Gloucestershire, last competed at Burghley 15 years ago and returns with this five-star debutant, whom he also showjumps in 1.35m classes. They have two wins at four-star, including over a small field at Millstreet CCI4*-L, after retiring at Bramham. Typically strong in both jumping phases and should give a good account.

Calmaro, 15 g g,
Carpalano x Elsurimo xx,
Richard & Tanya Ames, Alan
Bell & Annette O’Callaghan

Reserve for the Irish squad for the worlds, the grey is on form and should squeak into the prize-giving. Three top-10 results in four runs this year, including eighth at Bramham CCI4*-S. Ultra-reliable cross-country with only two stops in his international career (none since 2021) and has speed in his pedigree with damsire the 1990 German St Leger winner.

Chilli Knight, 16 ch g,
Chilli Morning x Rock King,
Christopher & Lisa Stone

The 2021 Bicton CCI5* winner returns to Burghley for the second time, having finished ninth in 2024. His Badminton challenge was curtailed in the spring when he twisted off a shoe mid-round, but he’s since finished top-10 in a competitive Burgham CCI4*-S and is a swashbuckling cross-country ride. Could make the podium if on his A game in every phase.

Cowling Hot Gossip, 14 db g,
Away With The Fairies x Welton
Ambassador, Helen Kerry,
rider’s mother Frances & rider

Bought for just a grand when Tom was a teenager, this British-bred campaigner is now a veteran of three five-star completions and is giving Tom valuable experience. Yet to score better than 43 in dressage at this level; cross-country prowess is his forte. Showjumped clear for the first time since 2023 last month in an OI, but more likely to tip a few rails.

Claragh Olala, 12 b g, Obos Quality 004 x Master Imp, Margaret & Simon Hope

Both Jack and his impeccably bred gelding make their Burghley debut. They finished in the prize money with a double clear at Bramham CCI4*-L, traditionally a great prep run, and have had two top-five placings at advanced this season. The dressage and showjumping phases may scupper a good placing, but should enjoy a good spin cross-country.

Jaeger Master, 12 br g, Royaldik x Animo, Greendales Syndicate

A first five-star start for this British-bred, on whom Alex took the ride at the start of last season. They’ve finished second and third at national level this year, while ninth at Bramham CCI4*-L shows they are ready to master Burghley’s speed and stamina test – although two rails down precluded a podium finish there and their showjumping is inconsistent.

Centennial, 15 b g, Euro Sport Centavos x Moonwalker, Sue Rutter, rider’s mother Sonya & brother Kyle & rider

By a 1.60m showjumping sire, this home-bred is improving on every five-star run, finishing sixth at Badminton with a superb double clear. Always pretty reliable in the cross-country phase, Centennial is becoming more consistent in the showjumping too. Likely to be midfield after dressage, but should climb into the top 10 with their jumping prowess.

Deerpairc Revelry, 12 gr g, Hermes De Reve x Dobel’s Cento, Paske Syndicate

An exciting combination who’ve made a lot of four-star podiums. They’ve had a stellar season, starting with a national win at Barbury, and two bridesmaid spots at Aston-le-Walls and Hartpury CCI4*-Ss since finishing 13th at Badminton. Normally a reliable showjumper – his year-older full brother has jumped 1.60m classes with Marcus Ehning – and could be top five.

Toblerone, 19 b g, Yarlands Summer Song x unlisted, Nicole Basieux

A veteran of three senior and a young rider championships, the oldest horse in the field has been on form this season with top-10 placings at three- and four-star, and a cross-country clear at Badminton. Jumped double clear on his only other visit to Burghley in 2024. His showjumping is erratic, so another double clear would be sweet in the twilight of his career.

Filao De Perle, 11 b g, Upsilon x Echo Des Forets, Véronique Réal & rider

A serious contender from France, this is Benjamin’s first visit to Burghley since being eliminated in 2013. Filao has been top 10 at his past two five-stars, including ninth at Badminton, and won a 3-star national advanced class at Jardy last time out. He’s a speedy cross-country horse with an excellent showjumping record. Podium potential.

Autograf, 14 b g, Grafenstolz x Condios, Evie Mackel, Geraldine Torr, rider

This hugely popular rider brings “Buster” back to Burghley after finishing 18th here last season. They won’t be among the dressage leaders, but should give the cross-country a good crack, while prioritising a clear round over a fast one. Simon would probably sign for a top-20 result again and will be cheered on like a winner whatever the result.

High Time, 14 b g, Hemmingway x Monte Carlo, Ruth Armstrong, Serena Greenwell, Jo West, Tom Craig, Annabel Jenks & rider

Caroline won Burghley in 2010, and with this horse scoring her best result here since Lenamore in eighth last year, you could say it’s high time she won again. They made a rare mistake at Badminton when the horse caught a knee and tipped up, but he’s usually a great jumper in both phases. Off the pace in the dressage, but can leap up the leaderboard.

Icarus, 13 b g Otangelo x Lucky Boy, Wolfgang Nagy, rider’s brother Arthur Thomas & mother Rebecca Velarde

This horse is a diminutive powerball who is lining up at his seventh five-star. The dressage phase is always delicate, as “Stix” is very reactive to atmosphere. He’s a brilliant if exuberant cross-country horse whose record has more 20 penalties on than reflects this pair’s raw ability, but control is the issue. Double clear here in 2023 and could climb to a top-20 finish again.

Santoro, 14 br g, Starnberg x Regardez Moi, K Dabbs, A Kennedy, L Roper, C Curwen, F Mitchell, rider’s mother Wendy & rider

Sam and Santoro were travelling reserves for the Australian team in Aachen, so are making the most of their trip north by diverting here. They have four four-star wins on their CV, plus two top-10 finishes at Adelaide CCI5*, but Burghley is likely a stiffer challenge. The plan is for Santoro to stay in the northern hemisphere for the next 12 months.

Et Hop Du Matz, 12 b g, Nouma D'Auzay x Easy Star, Mandy Gray, Adam & Katelyn Work & rider

By the same French sire as Yasmin Ingham’s ride Goliath Du Loir, this still-improving horse finished third at Kentucky 2025. He was ninth last year at Burghley with a surprising two rails down – he’s historically been one or none, and has an almost fault-free cross-country record with a raking stride. Harry always primes his horses for the biggest events; top-five contender.

Goliath Du Loir, 10 ch g, Nouma D’Auzay x Hand In Glove xx, Janette Chinn & The Sue Davies Fund

Yasmin makes her Burghley debut, riding this consistent young horse “Gogo”, who has scarcely made a jumping mistake all season – just one rail down in eight runs and posting top-10 finishes at Bramham CCI4*-L and Burgham CCI4*-S. The exciting horse was bred at the same stud as Yasmin’s 2022 world champion Banzai Du Loir. Top-10 contender.

Cooley Lafitte, 14 br g, Je T’Aime Flamenco x Scirocco D’Elle, Jay Jaffar

Cooley Lafitte’s ninth five-star start and he’s bidding for his fifth completion with Jesse, who turns 37 this week. Prepped nicely for this with fourth at Burgham CCI4*-S. However their dressage at five-star tends to be closer to 40 than 30, and jumping in both phases at this level is erratic. Would do well to emulate finishing 21st on his Burghley debut in 2024.

Ballyneety Rocketman, 12 b g, Diamond Discovery x Errigal Flight, rider & his wife Hannah Watson

Typically a very good performer in the jumping phases, going double clear on 60% of his international runs, and a CCI4*-L winner. Looks made for Burghley with his thoroughbred sire, rangy stride and cross-country specialist rider, but troubles with rideability last year meant time-penalties pegged him back to 13th. Capable of top 10 if speed and stamina are factors.

Chilli’s Midnight Star, 12 b g, Chilli Morning x Laban, Nikki & Elise Axon & Merrill Halstead

Listed as a reserve for Aachen, “Ollie” caught the eye at Badminton climbing from 27th after dressage to 12th overall. The pair have a spotless double clear record in six runs this season, but have struggled to match their one-day dressage form at internationals. On the up and their star should continue to rise on a day when jumping is at a premium.

Monbeg Darwin, 11 b g, Kiltealy Silver x Porter Rhodes xx, G Mayer Plant Hire Ltd

This Irish-bred made his five-star debut at Badminton in May, finishing 28th. Double clear on his two runs since, but a 42.4 dressage mark at the Hartpury British open doesn’t bode well. Tends to jump clear across country, but slowly – the horse hasn’t made the time since his two-star days. Like his footballing namesake, Michael lives in Cheshire.

Benedict Radau, 14 db g, Tabasco Van Erpekom x Humbel xx, Hans Radau, Jane Shears

Out of a thoroughbred, this Irish Sport Horse was produced to four-star by Anne Thick before Matt took on the ride in 2025. They made their five-star debut at Pau, finishing 37th with a flag penalty, but their cross-country record is virtually spotless. Should climb after dressage, but any advantage gained on Saturday is likely to be hampered by rail or two.

Corimiro, 10 ch g, Amiro Z x Lovis Corinth, rider’s husband Brett Bullimore, Susan & Christopher Gillespie & Bruce Saint

This home-bred – out of Sarah’s 2015 Europeans ride Lilly Corinne – is a precocious talent. Backed up his Blenheim young horse class third last season by almost winning Pau, rolling a pole when in the lead, then lost a podium place with two down at Badminton. Normally fast and reliable and capable of mid-20s dressage. Fourth in the British open and deserves a top-five finish.

Church’ile, 14 b g, Grafenstolz x Apache D’Adriers, rider’s father Philippe

Still seeking their first cross-country clear in nine five-star runs, but after just a pin (and fast) at Badminton, Arthur will be brimming with confidence on this home-bred Selle Francais. They have had just one run since, finishing a good sixth in a big-field CCI3*-S at Le Pin. Having never showjumped clear at international level, completion will be the aim.

Public Address, 12 b g, Milan xx x Robellino xx, rider

Tom, who works full-time in property, made his five-star debut with this former point-to-pointer at Burghley last year, finishing 21st. “Brian” tied up midway round the course at Badminton, but seems to have made a full recovery with completions at Aston-le-Walls and Hartpury CCI4*-S since. Here for the love of it, but should enjoy another good spin.

Master Smart, 13 b g, Satisfaction FRH x Master Imp, rider’s parents Karen & the Hon Andrew Dixon

The daughter of 1988 Olympic medallist Karen Dixon is carving her own niche in the sport but has yet to master five-star, with two attempts ending in eliminations. However, the pair have shown promising form this season, with fourth in a hot CCI4*-S at Thoresby and in the prize money at Burgham, so it could be third time lucky for a completion.

Dassett Select, 12 b g, Caricello x Hemmingway, Patricia Marshall, rider’s parents Lesley & Philip Rocher

This mother-of-two makes her Burghley debut having jumped clear across country at Badminton 2025 on the pair’s only other five-star start. Top 15 at Burgham CCI4*-S, their one international completion this season, and they’ve been honing their showjumping over 1.30m tracks. Unlikely to trouble the leaders, but should post a solid completion.

RCA Patron Saint, 15 b g, Grafenstolz x unlisted, Alison, David & Lesley Crampton

The breakout stars of Badminton 2024, where they were runners-up on their five-star debut. While they haven’t matched that form since and their showjumping tends to let them down, this smooth partnership is one to watch across country. Lucy produced “Paddy” as an amateur, only taking a career break this year to focus on eventing her horse of a lifetime.

Sixmilewater, 12 b g, Obos Quality 004 x Buster King xx, Nicky Bennell

Austin was runner-up here last year, but on his top horse Colorado Blue who went to the worlds. This horse is very much his second string. He jumped clear across country at Badminton this year, but had a run-out at The Maltings here in 2025 and has a bit to prove reliability-wise in this phase with 20 penalties on both four-star runs this season.

Galileo Nieuwmoed, 15 db g, Carambole x Harcos, Mary Fox, Gillian Jonas & rider

With less than 50% thoroughbred, Galileo’s breeding belies impressive speed and stamina – he’s one of the fastest horses on the planet. This worlds longlisted pair have been close to winning a five-star several times – could this be the one? They’ve put last season’s cross-country blips behind them with ninth at Pau and third at Kentucky since and look bang on form.

Ballinaguilkey Fortunus, 15 gr g, Fortunus Z x Positively xx, rider

Anthony comes fresh from the veterans European Showjumping Championships in Denmark (winning team bronze and seventh individually) on another horse, but is more prolific on the eventing circuit. This horse is solid in both jumping phases, with many four-star clears, but time-faults are likely to rule out prize money on their five-star debut.

FE Lifestyle, 16 ch g, Leo Von Faelz x Brandenburger, Nina & Timothy Gardner

One of the eight US squad reserves for Aachen, FE Lifestyle has already jumped clear twice round here, and finished 12th in 2023. Two fifths at Maryland in 2022 and 2025 are his best five-star results, but his Kentucky 13th in the spring is equally impressive given the more competitive field. Top 15 is realistic, but time-faults will likely rule out a really high placing.

Chiraz, 13 gr g, Cayado x Casall, the Chiraz Syndicate & rider

This is US-based Aussie Ema’s first event in the UK. Chiraz, who was produced in the UK by Nicola Wilson up to two-star, made his five-star debut at Kentucky this year, finishing 23rd with two stops. Runner-up at Maryland CCI4*-S and at a national advanced on their last two runs, but inconsistent in jumping phases and likely aiming for a completion here.

Lady Ophelia, 14 b m, unlisted x Over The River, Emma de Haan, Denis Hickey, Pamela Idelson & rider

One of three nominated horses for Padraig on the Irish worlds longlist, this mare is a reliable cross-country performer whose half-sister Lady Amaro is a 1.60m showjumper. But her dressage lets her down and her most recent score of 51.4 at Burgham shows she’s not mellowing with age. A rare rider fall at Burghley in 2024 on their last run here.

Dealer De La Bride, 13 db g, Made In Semilly x Calvaro Z, rider

Robin has plenty of Nations Cup and championship form – he comes here fresh from the worlds – but this is his first stand-alone CCI5*. The Swiss train cross-country with five-time Burghley winner Andrew Nicholson so he should be well prepped. Realistically here for experience rather than a top result, but should make headway after the dressage.

Bling, 13 ch m, Kannan x Bahamian Bounty xx, Yvonne Ferguson

Beautifully bred by a 1.60m showjumping sire out of a thoroughbred. Bling’s half-brother is a five-time Flat winner. Originally intended as a hunter for her owner-breeder’s husband, Bling is proving a five-star diamond. Capable of 20s dressage, if Laura – who turns 37 on Burghley Monday – can keep the mare’s mind onside, and bidding to improve on 10th here last year.

D’Artagnan, 12 gr g, Diamant De Semilly x Cassini II, Kyrle Arscott, Annabelle James & rider

Wiltshire-based Tiana was on the reserve list for Aachen with D’Artagnan. The pair have been in eye-catching form this year with third at Bramham CCI4*-L and fourth at Belsay CCI4*-S. Their dressage is erratic – can be 20s or 40s – and Tiana had a fall last time out at Burgham, but if their confidence is intact, a top-15 finish is well within their capabilities.

Treworra, 14 b g, Jaguar Mail x Tower Of Magic xx, Angela Hislop

Beautifully bred for Burghley with 80% thoroughbred, the 17hh Treworra is a fast and brilliant jumper who hasn’t finished outside the top 10 in all eight runs this year. Last year’s British open champion, he had a rare run-out last Burghley, but was fifth at Badminton this spring. He is capable of a competitive dressage score and could go top five again.

Very Dignified, 11 b m, Dignified Van’T Zorgvliet x Ricardo Z, Jerome Broussard, Gloria Callen & Elizabeth Lendrum

Will, the reigning Kentucky CCI5* winner, makes his third visit to Burghley, bringing five-star debutant Very Dignified, who was second in Kentucky’s CCI4*-S class. This mare was direct reserve for the World Championships. An Irish-bred, produced up to four-star by Ireland’s Robbie Kearns to win Kilguilkey CCI4*-L in 2024, she is very much one to note.

Bally Louis, 16 br g, unlisted x unlisted, Andrew, Julie & Sarah Wingfield

One of two rides for Holly, who has a first-class degree in biomedical science and events full-time. Bally Louis has a somewhat chequered five-star career, not completing on his last three runs. However, he was 22nd here with a cross-country clear on his Burghley debut in 2023 and double clear at Hartpury CCI4*-S last time out puts him bang on form.

United 36, 10 b g, Uccello x Espri, Michael Stenning

Longlisted for the worlds after a dazzling five-star debut when fourth at Badminton, this 10-year-old is one of the most exciting young horses in the sport. Produced by Max Warburton up to three-star, he has never had a cross-country jumping penalty at any level and his dressage is steadily improving. Should challenge for the podium with more to come.

HSH Blake, 11 bl g, Tolan R x Kannan, Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, rider’s husband Deniz & rider

Caroline rerouted Blake to Burghley after parting company midway round the course at Aachen and they are among the favourites. Striking to watch in the dressage, the Irish-bred is a prolific winner through the levels: the 2023 Pan-Am Games champion aged only eight, and runner-up (Kentucky) and fourth (Maryland) on his two CCI5* runs so far. Huge chance.

John The Bull, 15 ch g, Luidam x Houmayoun xx, Helen Caton & rider’s mother Caroline

Promising as a young horse, coming third at Blenheim, but was sidelined for 18 months after his five-star debut at Badminton 2022; this is his return to this level. This Irish squad reserve has decent four-star form (third behind London 52 at Bicton) but two run-outs at Hartpury last time are a concern. His damsire won the Group One Italian Derby.

Falco, 17 b g, Cardenio 2 x Weinberg, Sue Benson & rider

A surprise inclusion in this field after finishing 21st at the worlds with his customary double clear. Probably the best showjumper in the sport (he has two half-brothers jumping at 1.60m), he’s nearly always excellent in both other phases, though he might be slightly off the pace. Runner-up at Badminton this spring; every chance of another big result.

Cavalier Crystal, 16 b m, Jack Of Diamonds x Cavalier Royale, Charlotte & Peter Opperman

This brilliant jumper has been third on all three runs at Burghley, and the only blip on her five-star record is when she stood on herself and tipped Harry off at Badminton in the spring. Their dressage mark will be their weak point, but they scored a 27.9 at CCI3*-S last time and whatever they score they should finish on it. Harry’s best chance of a win.

Name, age colour sex, breeding, (sire x dam sire), owners

An explanation of this horse and rider’s recent form.

United Touch S, 14 b st,
Untouched x Lux Z Z,
Julius-Peter Sinnack

The reigning European champions and 2026 Aachen grand prix winners must be looking to add a world gold to their collection, and improve on the European team bronze to which they contributed last year. The combination are also live contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam and the major question has to be whether anyone can stop them.

Faye 43, 11 ch m,
Fürst Wilhelm x Aljano 2,
Theresa Semler, Andrew & Katie William

Argentina last won a medal at these championships in 1960 but a potential dark horse could be this 57-year-old rider and his Pan-Am medal-winning 16-year-old gelding. Their triple clear and runner-up finish in this year’s Aachen grand prix topped an exceptional run of form and they could spring a mighty surprise in this unique arena.

Hialita B, 14 ch m,
Emerald x Vaillant,
rider & Michael Smith

This combination who represented Australia at the Paris Olympics return with two more years’ experience under their belts and a string of good results. They have scored wins and good placings at four- and five-star level in the past year, across North America and in Europe, and have competed on Nations Cup teams.

Oaks Ventriloquist, 14 gr g,
Vivant x Rex Z,
Greg & Jennie McDermott & Tessa & Alison Newton

This is a first senior championship for horse and rider, who have been together for nearly 18 months. They stepped up to five-star level in May at Hamburg, where they came seventh in the grand prix, and have since jumped at three- and four-star level at Deauville, Bonheiden and Valkenswaard. How will this Australian title-holder fare on the global stage?

Fellow Castlefield, 16 b g,
Je T’Aime Flamenco x Twister,
rider, Tops Horse Trading Bv & Victory Equestrian Sport Bv

This is a fifth World Championships for multi-grand prix-winning mum-of-one Edwina, who competed at the Paris Olympics with this horse. They started the year off with some good five-star results in Doha and have been placed in Global Champions Tour classes in Miami and Cannes this season, but have been on less consistent form since.

Handsome, 14 b st,
Toulon x Phin Phin,
rider & Just A Cheeky One

Rowan returns to the Australian squad for the first time since the 2018 worlds, at which the team finished sixth. He brings championship debutant and new ride Handsome, whom British rider Simon Crippen was competing until March. The combination have had good results together already, including sixth in the grand prix at Spruce Meadows in June.

Tulara Wat Colblensky, 12 gr m,
Colman x Cornet Obolensky,
Rachel Peel

First-timer Jamie and Tulara finished 21st at the World Cup Final in April, having started 2026 with good results at four- and five-star level in the US. They then travelled to Europe and secured a top-10 placing on the Global Champions Tour and the four-star Valkenswaard grand prix. Her husband – also Jamie – rode at three championships. Bonheiden and Valkenswaard. How will this Australian title-holder fare on the global stage?

I Will Be Famous, 13 b g,
Bubalu VDL x Lux Z Z,
Gestüt Sprehe

This is a second World Championships for Bianca, who finished 87th individually in Herning in 2022. In almost a year of competing together, she and this horse have won and been placed at four-star level. They competed at CSI5* at St Gallen in June, including two four-fault rounds in the Nations Cup but this will be another big step up for this duo.

Kleons Renegade, 13 db g,
Quintero Ask x Argelith Stakkato

Late replacement.

Cossinelle, 13 b m,
Cascadello x Quebec 19,
Sergiy Demchenko

This is a first senior championship for Felix, who won individual young rider European silver in 2018. He took on this mare, who competed at the 2023 Europeans with Ukrainian Alisa Danilova, last autumn. They have yet to jump clear together at five-star level but jumped double clear in a four-star Nations Cup in June and could perform well.

EIC Cooley Jump The Q, 13 b g,
Pacino x OBOS Quality,
rider & Luigi & Remo Baleri

Max has formed the backbone of the Austrian team with nine senior championship appearances to his credit – six European Championships, the 2024 Olympics and two World Championships. He’s earned top-10 individual placings at four. His versatile horse has won five-star grands prix and been placed in six-bars and puissance classes.

Colestus Cambridge, 11 gr g,
Colestus x Cambridge 8,
Gerhard Rauch

Katharina, a team bronze medallist at the 2023 European Championships and who represented Austria at the last worlds, brings the horse with whom she competed at the Paris Olympics. They have been on good form this year, winning at five-star in May, placed at Aachen shortly afterwards and coming second in the St Gallen grand prix in June.

Portobella Van De Fruitkorf, 11 ch m,
Bamako De Muze
x Nabab De Reve,
Stephex
Stables & Paul Swinnen

Emilie is a real rising star and she and this mare make their senior championship debut in Aachen, having been competing together for four years. They have had a good year, starting with five-star placings in the US, coming second in the grand prix of Hamburg in May and jumping for clear and four faults in the Rome Nations Cup.

Casual DV Z, 11 b m,
Cornet Obolensky x Cicero Z Van
Paemel,
Devos Stables

This is a third World Championships for Pieter, who was also on the team that won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. He brings the horse with whom he was on the European gold medal-winning team last year. Their form this year includes four podium finishes in five-star grands prix and other top-10 placings at this level.

Katanga VH Dingeshof,
16 b m,
VDL Cardento
933 x Tornedo FCS,
Team Philippaerts, Familie Lens &
AMB Holding NV

This will be a second World Championships for Nicola and this brilliant mare, who finished eighth individually in Herning. They were on the team that won European gold last year, and bronze in 2021, and have been on good form this season, jumping clear and four in the Falsterbo Nations Cup, having won the Shanghai Global Champions Tour grand prix in May.

Wathnan Quaker
Brimbelles Z, 11 b g,
Quicksilver St Simeon x
Hickstead,
AS Trading

This is a third World Championships for Abdel, who competed in 2014 and 2018 for Egypt, and a first for this gelding, whom he has been jumping since late 2024. They came eighth at the World Cup Final this year, were placed in the Global Champions Tour grand prix of St Tropez in June and were on the team that came second in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Quietly fancied.

Impress-K Van’t
Kattenheye Z, 11 bl st,
Indoktro K Van’t Kattenheye
x Vagabond De La Pomme,
Spits BV

Thibau and this striking stallion were also on the team that won European gold last year, finishing eighth individually. They came third in the Geneva grand prix in December and have followed that with a strong 2026, including a five-star grand prix win, good Global Champions Tour placings and double clear in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Could be in the mix for one medal at least.

Vertigo Du Desert, 17 gr g,
Mylord Carthago HN x Robin Z,
rider, Iliana Diniz & Arnaldo Dos
Santos Diniz

Last time Luciana competed at an Aachen World Championships, it was for Portugal, as she was not picked for the Brazilian team. This time she has been selected, with the veteran rider with whom she came 10th individually at the Tokyo Olympics. The combination are in great form, including finishing second in the Aachen Rolex grand prix qualifier.

Dorette OLD, 17 ch m,
Dollar Du Murier x Fighting Alpha
3,
Ashford Farm BV & Jana Wargers

This mare formerly ridden by Germany’s Jana Wargers, with results including helping Germany win the 2024 Longines League of Nations Final, is a new ride for Brazilian team stalwart Marlon, who took the reins early this year. They came third in their first five-star class together shortly afterwards and have since recorded more top-10 finishes at this level.

Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio, 15 b m,
Calvaro FC x
Paroli 4,
Ana Eliza Aguiar Ramos

This is a first World Championships for Stephan and this mare, who were individual champions and team bronze medallists at the 2023 Pan-Am Games, and finished fifth individually at the Paris Olympics. Recent results include second in May’s Madrid Global Champions Tour grand prix and finishing just outside the top 10 in the Rome grand prix.

Major Tom, 13 ch g,
Vagabond De La Pomme x Heartbreaker

Late replacement.

Kayenne Z, 11 b m,
Kannan x Canezaro,
rider

Kyle and this mare both make their championship debut. Kyle bought her just before turning 50 and said she’s made his dreams come true. They’ve had great results at top level including second to Scott Brash in last year’s $5m grand prix at Spruce Meadows. They won a World Cup leg early this year and had good CSI5* placings at Spruce Meadows this summer.

Fave D’Authuit, 11 bl g,
Cornet Obolensky x Kannan,
Ilan Ferder

This is a third successive World Championships for Erynn, who has been riding this horse since 2024. They have had a string of wins and podium finishes at five-star level this year, including two wins on the trot in Mexico, and second places at Aachen and St Gallen. Erynn is a hugely experienced rider and could make her mark in Aachen.

Jagger HX, 12 b g,
Ustinov x Bustique,
Team Eye Candy & Millar Brooke Farm

Amy makes a second World Championships appearance. She won Pan Am team silver in 2023, and has been competing Jagger since 2022; at Hickstead this summer they were one of 19 pairs to have four faults in the King George. They came second in a four-star grand prix in Vancouver in May, and have since been placed at Spruce Meadows and Chantilly.

Ideaal ES, 13 b g, Ukato x Conway, Take The High Road LLC

Chris last rode at a championships 20 years ago, when the worlds were last at Aachen. He started riding Ideaal nearly two years ago; they have since achieved wins and good placings at four- and five-star. At the Royal International they jumped for eight and clear to help Canada to a Nations Cup podium finish, and clear in the other class they contested.

Casino Calvin, 13 gr g,
Casino Berlin OLD x Calvin,
Rein Family & Tara Dow-Rein

A first senior championship for France-based Kyle, who is best known for producing young horses but has enjoyed a rapid ascent in the ring in recent years. Casino Calvin was formerly ridden by his countryman Eric Lamaze. Kyle took the reins in 2023 and they have had top-10 placings at four- and five-star this year, with a good prep outing at Royal International.

Cornflake CR, 11 ch g, Cascadello x Cassigor,
Reitsportanlage Dagobertshausen GmbH & CO.KG

The sole Cypriot showjumper is competing at her second World Championships, having contested the vaulting in 2014. She and Chad Blue finished in the top half individually at last year’s Europeans but Cornflake is a relatively new ride and these championships will be a big ask. Alex says the flexibility and balance needed for vaulting is of use in showjumping.

Oscar-A, 12 b st,
VDL Harley x VDL Cardento 933,
rider, Joanne Sloan-Allen & Sycamore Horse Farm

This is a third World Championships for Northern Ireland-based Sameh, who switched back to riding for Egypt this year after a spell representing Great Britain. He has been competing this stallion for long-term supporter Joanne since last year and they have developed a lovely rapport, with good placings on the Canadian and European circuits.

ESI Ali, 11 b g,
Stakkato Gold x Tygo,
rider & Evergate Stables LLC

This is a third World Championships for Nayel and a first for the Irish-bred former ride of Seamus Hughes Kennedy. This combination has won and been placed at five-star. They started this year in good five-star form in the US and continued through spring, with top-10 finishes in the Madrid Global Champions Tour and the Falsterbo grand prix.

Tornado VS, 15 b g,
Toulon x Contender,
Yeguada Valbanera S.L.

This is a first World Championships for Armando and Tornado, who were on the team that finished fifth at the 2023 Europeans and 16th in 2025. They have had relatively few outings so far this year but they came 13th in the World Cup Final in April and their results since have included eighth place in the grand prix of Rome. A possible dark horse for Spain.

Fringan De Vesquerie, 11 ch g,
Mylord Carthago x Diamant De Semilly,
Le Haras De Neroli

A second worlds for speed demon Julien, who won individual European bronze in 2023, and a first championship for this gelding he has been competing for a year. They jumped double clear to help France win the La Baule Nations Cup in June, following that with third place in the grand prix, then were 10th in the Riesenbeck Global Champions Tour grand prix.

Floyd Des Pres, 11 ch g,
Vigo Cece x Papillon Rouge,
Jean-Yves Ermann & SAS Weston

A relatively new name in the top tier of the sport, Antoine and this gelding make their team senior championship debut, having finished 15th as individuals at least year’s Europeans. They jumped clear and for one time-fault to help France win the La Baule Nations Cup in June, having also finished third in the Madrid Global Champions Tour grand prix.

Dynastie De Beaufour, 13 b m,
Diamant De Semilly x Cassini II,
Rein Family LLC & Tara Dow-Rein

Another huge young talent who has earned her place alongside some legendary French riders on the squad and could be bidding for a medal at just her second championship. The pair finished fifth in the Aachen grand prix last year, helped France win the recent La Baule Nations Cup and have gained invaluable experience competing in the USA.

GL Events Dorai D’Aiguilly, 13 b m,
Kannan x Toulon,
EARL Ecurie Perreau et Fils & Emilie Perreau

Olivier turned heads when he made his senior championship debut with this horse at the 2023 Europeans, where they finished eighth as individuals. They came 38th at the Olympics the following year and have been on great form this year, with CSI5* wins and placings. They were on the team that won the La Baule Nations Cup in June and could perform well.

Exquis RB, 12 ch g,
Siwing De Tria val x Quamikase Des Forets,
Richard Breul

Team stalwart Kevin will compete at his fifth World Championships; he was on the silver medal-winning teams in 2010 and 2014. He has competed Exquis since January and they perform well in big grass arenas with a win at St Gallen, where they were fourth in the grand prix. They came sixth in Hickstead’s King George V, as the fastest first-round four-faulters.

Hello Mango, 11 gr m, Untouchable 27 x Numero Uno,
Lady Pauline Harris & Lady Pauline Kirkham

Scott picked Hello Mango over double European silver medallist Hello Folie and Olympic gold medal-winning Hello Jefferson; he has long thought she has what it takes to go all the way. Their first international win was a five-star grand prix in January; following this with strong performances in both qualifiers for this year’s grand prix in Aachen.

LT Holst Freda, 12 gr m,
Colman x Casall Ask,
rider & Eve Jobs

Olympic team gold medallist Harry brings a mare he has only been riding for three months, but if anyone can, Harry can. She was bought for Harry’s wife Eve but Harry fell for her and they were on the winning team in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, jumping double clear followed by a fabulous jump-off, a month later. Harry said he and Freda gelled from day one.

Point Break, 12 b st,
Action-Breaker x Balou Du Rouet,
Pamela Wright & Charlotte Rossetter

Multiple medal-winning Ben brings the star stallion with whom he jumped double clear for Britain in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations and won the grand prix. Ben has been riding “Bodhi” since he was six and they came second in last year’s World Cup Final, and won at the top level across the world; he ranks alongside the best horses at the moment.

Jack JL, 12 gr st,
Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Astrello,
Candice Reilly

Jack and Jack arrive in Aachen hot on the heels of fourth place in the King George V at Hickstead. They have been together a year but caught the eye early as part of the winning Longines League of Nations team in St Tropez. They have since achieved podium finishes at five-star level, and represented Britain on Nations Cup and more League of Nations teams.

Chacco Volo, 13 b st,
Chacco-Blue x Carthago,
Deborah Cox

Adrian and “Chacc” have become a feature of British Nations Cup teams en route to this championship debut. They have been together since the stallion was five, and worked their way up through three- and four-star Nations Cups until Aachen last year. They were part of the winning Nations Cup team at Hickstead and have jumped clear after clear for Britain.

Otello De Guldenboom, 12 b st,
Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z x Caretino,
rider & Stephex Stables

Daniel is a German championship team veteran, with three European team silvers and an Olympic team bronze on his CV. He has been riding this Belgian-bred stallion for three years and the pair have hit the top level recently, including coming second in the World Cup Final this year. They were on the team that came second in the CSI5* La Baule Nations Cup.

Iron Dames Singclair, 11 b g,
Singular LS La Silla x VDL Cardento 933,
Pegase Equestrian BV

This is a second championship for Sophie, who was on the team that won European bronze last year, and a first for this Swedish-bred gelding previously ridden by Peder Fredricson. They were on the German team that finished third at last year’s Longines League of Nations Final, the second-placed team in La Baule, and the third-placed Aachen Nations Cup team in May.

United Touch S, 14 b st,
Untouched x Lux Z Z,
Julius-Peter Sinnack

The reigning European champions and 2026 Aachen grand prix winners must be looking to add a world gold to their collection, and improve on the European team bronze to which they contributed last year. The combination are also live contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam and the major question has to be whether anyone can stop them.

Coolio 42, 13 db g,
Casalito x Quidam De Revel,
Elmrock BV & rider

Team veteran and all-round legend Marcus, who has 15 championship medals, won European team bronze with this horse last year and came third at the 2025 Longines League of Nations Final. They hit top form in June, winning the CSI5* grand prix of St Gallen, having come second in the Global Champions Tour grand prix of Shanghai in May.

Checker 47, 16 gr g,
Comme Il Faut x Loro Piana Come On,
Thomas Müller & Madeleine Winter-Schulze

The reigning Olympic champions have not contested a championship since Paris and were drafted in for Aachen as travelling reserves at the 11th hour. Despite limited outings this year, they hit form in Riesenbeck before winning the Longines Global Champions Tour in London. A first worlds for Christian, who has European team silver and bronze on his CV.

Qonquest De Rigo, 10 b g,
Fantomas De Muze x VDL Indoctro,
Aloga Stables Ltd

The pair that helped Ireland finish fourth at last year’s Europeans, and second at the Longines League of Nations Final, go to Aachen on good form. They started 2026 with good results at four- and five-star level in the US and have continued in the same vein, including a double jumping clear in the CSI5* La Baule Nations Cup and fifth in the grand prix there.

Eddy Blue, 14 b g,
Eldorado VD Zeshoek TN x Chacco-Blue,
Carol A Sollak

Darragh said after he and Eddy Blue won the London World Cup leg in 2024 that this may be one of the best horses he’s ridden. He proved why, as they went on to be on the fourth-placed team at the Europeans the next summer, and have since won and been placed at four-and five-star level including a CSI5* US grand prix in March. Expect a bold bid.

Chatolinue PS, 13 db g,
Diablo Blanco x Stakkatol,
Karlswood Partners

This is a relatively new ride for team stalwart Cian; he took the reins last October and they finished on a CSI5* podium in Geneva and in the London World Cup leg two months later. They have been building experience in big grass arenas in the build-up to Aachen, jumping five-star Nations Cups and the high-calibre duo finished fourth in the La Baule grand prix.

James Kann Cruz, 13 gr g,
Kannan x Cruising,
rider & Gizmo Partners LLC

Shane and his 2023 European team silver medal-winning star are selected for Aachen straight after their first five-star grand prix win together in Falsterbo. They had been knocking at the door for months though, securing second and third places at this level, jumped a Longines League of Nations double clear and finishing seventh in the Aachen grand prix. This could be their time to shine.

Vistogrand, 13 b st,
Fantaland x Mr Visto,
rider & Tipperary’s Finest Est

Travelling reserves, Denis and British-bred Vistogrand were on the team that just missed the European medals last year, having represented Ireland as individuals in 2023. The powerful stallion’s early promise has developed into a leading talent showing consistent form at the top level. Recent results include top-10 finishes at CSI5* level in Rome.

Corbie VV, 11 gr m,
Cornet Obolensky x Chacco-Blue,
rider, Abigail S Wexner & Over The Top Stables LLC

Colombia-born Daniel trained with the legendary Nelson Pessoa in his youth and is now an Israeli team stalwart. He will compete at his fifth worlds with a mare he has been riding for three years. They have clocked up wins and top placings together in the US and across Europe at four- and five star level, and have plenty of experience of the Aachen arena.

Landon De Nyze, 13 ch g,
Comilfo Plus Z x Quadrillo,
Aram Ampagoumian LLC

Mark makes his worlds debut on a championship team with his cousin Daniel for the first time. He brings the horse with whom Kent Farrington won team gold and individual silver at the 2023 Pan Am Games, whom Mark has been competing since December. They have already clocked up good results at five-star, including a win at Spruce Meadows in June.

Cazan Z, 11 ch st,
Comme Il Faut x Vagabond De La Pomme,
Muriel Kretchner & Theodore Boris International Sales

Theodore brings the horse previously ridden by Jos Verlooy, and with whom he finished 77th at last year’s Europeans, to his worlds debut. Their form has not been the most consistent this year but they have won at the lower levels and jumped clear rounds at five-star this spring and summer. Aachen will be a huge stepping stone however.

Foud’joi De Stel, 11 b g,
Canturo x Quite Easy,
rider

This will be a sixth championship, and second worlds, for Robin, but he brings championship debutant 11-year-old gelding, who he has been competing internationally since early 2024. They had wins and placings at three- and four-star level this spring but a career-best performance will be required from this pair if they’re to trouble the leaders.

C Vier 2, 18 b g,
VDL Cardento 933 x Concorde,
rider & Suave Pony LLC

Withdrawn.

Hantano, 14 b g,
Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Numero Uno,
Eriberto Bucci & Karina Frederiks

Piergiorgio, who turns 51 the day before the worlds start, will compete at his seventh senior championship, this time with Hantano; they were on the team that came eighth at the 2025 Europeans. They’ve recorded good five-star results this year, winning the grand prix in La Baule and jumping clear and four for Italy in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations.

Chacareno PS, 11 b g,
Chacco-Blue x Calvaro FC,
Gestüt Lewitz

Emanuele will contest his second World Championships after Herning 2022, with this horse he has been riding since 2022. They have had five-star placings this year, and jumped clear in Nations Cups for Italy, but clear rounds have been hard to come by this summer so far and the championship tracks of Aachen will be a big challenge.

Marbella Du Chabli, 14 b m,
Elvis Ter Putte x Nabab De Reve,
Chiara Bonavolta & Mirco Casadei

Giacomo and this mare were also on the Italian team that came eighth at last year’s European Championships; they make their World Championships debut after two and a half years together. They had top-10 placings in Abu Dhabi and Florida at the start of 2026 but clear rounds at CSI5* have been a challenge more recently and they might struggle in Aachen.

Querido Van’t Ruytershof, 10 bl g,
Mosito Van Het Hellehof x Otangelo,
Stal Hendrix

Giampiero and this young gelding make their World Championship debut after about a year together. Their five-star form this year includes a podium finish in Helsinki, where they were also sixth in the World Cup, and jumping for clear and four in the Rome Nations Cup. They finished in the top 10 of the Valkenswaard four-star grand prix in July.

Delta Del’Isle, 13 b g,
Tibet Tame x Grain De Soleil,
SGH Srl, Ashford Farm & Benedetta Cesaretto

This combination were also on the team that came eighth at the 2025 Europeans. They have since had top-10 placings at four- and five-star level together, and jumped clear rounds at Aachen just a couple of months ago. They came seventh in the Rome grand prix in May, and jumped clear and four in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations in June.

ESI Rocky, 11 b g,
Stakkato Gold x For Pleasure,
Nista AG

This precocious young talent arrives at her first senior championship having already achieved five-star grand prix-winning status. She became the youngest Longines Global Champions Tour winner aged 19 and won a second grand prix in 2026, this time with the brilliant ESI Rocky, Seamus Hughes Kennedy’s junior European gold medal-winning partner, whom she acquired last year. Could perform well.

Denver, 11 b g,
Diarado x Quantum,
rider & Trelawny Farm LLC

Michael and this horse, who was briefly ridden by Bertram Allen, were on the team that finished sixth at the 2025 Europeans. They were placed at five-star level early this year, and were on the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations team in June. They were consistent at the CSI4* in Valkenswaard in July, jumping plenty of clear rounds.

Grandorado TN NOP, 15 b st,
Eldorado VD Zeshoek TN x Carolus II,
Team Nijhof vof & Willem Greve Sportpaarden Bv

Willem was on the team that finished sixth at the 2025 Europeans, and seventh in 2023. He brings this stallion with whom he finished seventh at last year’s World Cup Final, and was third in the Rotterdam grand prix in June. Other 2026 successes include five-star wins in Amsterdam and in the Gothenburg World Cup leg, and fourth in the Paris grand prix.

Ipsthar, 13 b st,
Denzel VT Meulenhof x Farmer, Geert Moerings & MEAA Moerings

Bas and Ipsthar are also veterans of last year’s sixth-placed Europeans team, having competed internationally together since 2018. Bas’s family bred Ipsthar and he has competed him from the start, to wins and placings up to five-star level. They jumped clear and four in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, and clear at Valkenswaard in July.

Mr. Tac, 14 b g,
Non Stop x Toulon,
Genevieve Megret & rider

Dutch team stalwart Harrie was on the team that won silver at the last worlds. He returns with this gelding, formerly ridden by Luxembourg’s Victor Bettendorf, whom he has been competing since 2024. They were on the team that won the Aga Khan trophy at Dublin last year, and were joint-second in the Paris grand prix this spring.

Cassina Dior, 14 b m,
Diarado x San Patrignano Cassini,
Lars Backsell & Van Asten and Nijberg Equestrian

Mathijs makes his senior championship debut with this New Zealand-bred mare he has been competing for two years. They won their first five-star class together in early 2025, after which they had inconsistent results and stepped down. They came 11th in the Rotterdam grand prix in June, then jumped double clears at Valkenswaard in July.

Island VG, 13 b g,
VDL Zirocco Blue x VDL Indoctro,
Stall Gullik AS

One of the veterans of the sport, the popular Geir Gulliksen contests his 17th senior championship for Norway at the age of 66 but he is yet to stand on a podium. He brings his current five-star ride with whom he has been contesting Global Champions League competitions and has had top-10 finishes including sixth in the Paris grand prix.

Que Pasa JW-LVM, 10 b g,
Di Cantero Van Ter Hulst Z x I Am Moerhoeve’s Star,
Mest Invest DK APS & Horvath Horses SL

This is a second World Championships for Cecilie, who has represented Norway from youth level, but a first for the 10-year-old gelding whom she has been competing for two years. They jumped their first five-star classes in St Gallen in June, including the grand prix there, after which she stepped him down in the run-up to Aachen.

Equine America Harwich VDL, 14 ch g,
Arezzo VDL x Darco,
Stall Gullik AS

In another big championship for the Gulliskens, Geir’s son Johan joins him on the team with his long-term partner Harwich. The pair were in the team that just missed the final at last year’s Europeans. They started 2026 with podium finishes in the Basel World Cup and Hong Kong grand prix. They also contested the World Cup Final in Texas.

Nelson Van’t Roosakker, 13 b g,
Zandor Z x Kashmir Van Schuttershof,
BV Karel Cox Horses & Skollerud Tore

This combination were also on the team that finished 11th at the Europeans last year, and this is their second World Championships for Norway; Marit also rode at the 2018 World Equestrian Games and 2017 Europeans. This combination has had relatively limited outings this summer but jumped clear at CSI5* level in Rome at the end of May.

Conner Jei, 15 db g,
Connor 48 x Cosimo,
Adolfo Juri

Martin and the tricky but hugely talented Conner Jei were not on their usual top form at last year’s Europeans, finishing 55th individually. They have since found their feet again this year, having won a CSI5* grand prix and been placed second in a further three. Martin is known for his speed and will be one to watch from the first day.

Dynamix De Bélhème, 13 b m,
Snake De Blondel x Corent Obolensky,
CHC Horses SA & La Giraffa SA

The 2023 European champions and reigning Olympic silver medallists go to Aachen on top form, having jumped double clear to secure a Swiss victory in the Falsterbo Nations Cup. Steve, who has been blessed by so many fabulous horses, has cited this mare as one of the best, and will undoubtedly have his eye on team and individual medals.

Chelsea Z, 13 ch g,
Chellano Alpha Z x Cicero Z Van Paemel,
Olivier de Coulon

Promising young Swiss rider Gaëtan and Chelsea Z finished 10th individually at last year’s young rider Europeans. Both horse and rider make their senior championship debut in Aachen on the back of top-10 finishes at five-star level this spring and summer, including helping the Swiss to third in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, but this will be a major step up for them.

Picobello Van’t Roosakker, 11 gr st,
Kassander Van’t Roosakker x Canabis Z AKZ,
Marc Buhofer & Silver Moon Sport Horses

Scottish-born Jason, who represented Britain as a junior rider, comes to his first senior championship since he won team bronze in 2011. He and Picobello have twice jumped clear to help Switzerland win five-star Nations Cups in recent months, and came sixth in the Rotterdam grand prix in June.

Chaccoo De l’Escant MM, 9 ch g,
Chacoon Blue x Vigo D’Arsouilles,
Marlis Mühlebach

Alain is a familiar name on the international circuit but this would be a first championship for him and this promising young horse. They jumped clear to help the Swiss to third place in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations, after which Alain stepped the horse down to one-star level, at which they have been jumping steady clears.

Alcapone Des Carmille, 16 b g,
Diamant De Semilly x Heartbreaker,
Alcapone Group

One of two riders from the triumphant team at the last worlds, Peder partners a horse previously ridden by compatriot Angelie von Essen. The pair finished in the top 10 of the Geneva grand prix at the end of 2025 and have been on good form since, including a win in a Global Champions Tour speed class in June – a good omen for Aachen’s opening round.

Minute Man, 12 b st,
Vigo D’Arsouilles STX x Montender 2,
Team Minute Man LLC

The reigning world champion returns without gold medal-winning ride King Edward and brings a horse who has recently returned to competition. Minute Man did not compete between July 2025 and May this year but has since jumped a clear and four in the La Baule Nations Cup and enhanced their form in Riesenbeck. Can the Swedish maestro do it again?

Odina Van Klapscheut, 12 b m,
Zazu x Landor S,
Stephex Stables

Petronella makes her World Championships debut but is no stranger to a big occasion, having won young rider European silver and bronze, and represented Sweden at last year’s European Championships. She is selected with a mare she took on at seven, and competed in the young horse worlds that year. The combination has had multiple five-star placings this year.

Cicci BJN, 15 gr m,
Ci Ci Senjor Ask x Tornesch 1042,
rider & WH Sporthorses

Wilma is another who comes from the 2025 Europeans team; she and Cicci finished 18th there, and were on the team that won European gold in 2023. The mare lost one eye aged seven but returned to the top level for the combination to make their championship debut three years ago. Recent results include fifth in the CSI5* grand prix of Rome in May.

Jezebeau BC, 11 b g,
Thunder VD Zuuthoeve x Vancouver D’Avray,
H3K Equestrian AB

The former Irish rider returns to a championship team for the first time since 2009, this time in Swedish colours having switched nationality. He brings a horse he has been competing since late 2023. This combination were on the Swedish team that finished seventh in the five-star Nations Cup in La Baule in June and Falsterbo in July.

Enjoy De La Mure, 12 b st,
Vigo Cece x Sable Rose,
Al Shira'aa Stables

Another UAE combination who competed at the 2024 Olympics after less than a year together, finishing in the top 20 individually. They went on to good top-level results including second in the 2025 King George at Hickstead. They have had good four- and five-star placings this summer ahead of their worlds debut here.

Hudson De Vains, 9 b st,
Comme Il Faut x Robin Z,
Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club

This is a World Championships debut for Abdullah and this young stallion, whom he has been riding for about a year. They jumped a few five-star classes last summer, and more this year, and are yet to jump double clear at this level. They were on the Hickstead Nations Cup team, jumping for eight faults in each round.

Foncetti VD Heffinck, 12 b st,
For Pleasure x Concetto,
Al Shira'aa Stables

This stallion competed at the Paris Games with Humaid's team-mate Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi, finishing 61st individually, then Humaid took the ride in September that year. They've since been contesting five-star classes and appear to be improving with every round, representing the UAE on several Nations Cup teams.

Flonflon, 11 b g,
Ogrion Des Champs x Hurlevent De Breka,
Al Shira'aa Stables

Salim, who competed at the Paris Olympics, brings this gelding to their first World Championships after just a few months together. They jumped double clear for seventh in the Bolesworth CSI4* grand prix, then Flonflon contested his first five-star classes with Salim at Hickstead, where they had just one down in the King George.

Baloutinue, 16 b g,
Balou Du Rouet x Landor S,
St Bride's Farm

This team stalwart has already won world - and Olympic - team gold and silver. She has swapped her shortlisted horse Bisquetta for the four years older Baloutinue. Laura is always one to have on your side in championships.

Out Of The Blue SCF, 12 gr m,
Verdi TN x San Patrignano Cassini,
Grant Road Partners

Katie makes her senior championship debut for the US in Aachen but she contested seven World Cup Finals, finishing third overall with Out Of The Blue this year. The pair were on the team that came second in the Rotterdam Longines League of Nations in June, when they also secured a top-10 finish in the CSI5* grand prix, so could jump well in Aachen.

Fasther, 16 ch g,
Vigo D'Arsouilles STX x Farmer,
Chansonette Farm

Lillie is competing at her second worlds, and was selected after some strong five-star results, including in the Paris leg of the Global Champions Tour in June. She and Fasther have not had a huge number of outings this year but results include finishing just outside the top 10 in the Aachen grand prix in May, which bodes well for these championships.

Mr Boombastic, 12 b g,
Vigo Cece x Sable Rose,
Marigold Sporthorses

This is a senior championship debut for Natalie, and for this horse formerly ridden by Denis Lynch. They started competing together at 1.30m last September, and they have since clocked up good results at the top level, jumping clear for the US at the La Baule Nations Cup in June and helping the team claim victory in Dublin last weekend.

High Star Hero, 13 b g,
Zazu x Darco,
Michael Smith

The multiple Olympic medallist was on the team that won gold at his last World Championships in 2018; in the one he missed, the US team finished 11th. He returns with a horse he has been riding since 2024, with whom he has won and come second in five-star grands prix this year, among other good results at this level. Highly likely to be vying for medals.

Odiena Van Berimar, 12 gr m,
Kannan x Game-Boy, rider,
Marianne Burger & Helen Human

Last, but definitely not least, is Zimbabwe's sole entry, who will make history in Aachen as the first rider from her country to qualify for the World Championships. She made her European debut in May, competing up to four-star since with a lovely string of horses, one of whom is this quality mare, who was previously with Team Philippaerts. A big ask but what a story.

Name, age colour sex, breeding, (sire x dam sire), owners

An explanation of this horse and rider’s recent form.

HSH Blake, 11 bl g,
BMC Tolan R x Kannan,
Mollie Hoff, rider’s mother Sherrie Martin, rider & her husband Deniz

Caroline and HSH Blake were the 2023 Pan Am Games champions and much talked about pre-Paris, where their experience perhaps caught out horse and rider for an average finish. Caroline has since had a baby (also called Blake) and come back stronger; at five-star, they’ve been fourth at Maryland 2025 and second at Kentucky this spring. Ones to watch.

Sandhills Briar, 10 b g,
Christian 25 x Stirling Sprite,
rider’s parents Craig & Prudence & brother Jesper

This pair have the youngest combined age in the eventing at Aachen, but earned a spot with victory at Adelaide in April – admittedly, the least competitive of the world’s five-stars. They’ve had two cross-country mistakes in their international careers, but boast a stain-free jumping record in the final phase. An exciting northern hemisphere debut.

APH Sodoku, 10 b g,
APH Rocardo x APH Coriandus,
rider’s parents Carlene & Simon

Olivia has been based in Belgium for a couple of years and rides in international showjumping as well as eventing. A winner at the lower levels in Australia, APH Sodoku has returned from some rocky form in early 2025 and won a CCI4*-S at Strzegom this spring in decent company. Not world-beaters, but they should be useful team contributors.

Humble Glory, 15 b g, Bernardini x Shovhog,
rider, Caroline Duddy, Olivia Greenwood, rider’s husband Andrew, rider’s parents Michelle & Ted Landy

Sophia has bounced between countries over the past few years, spending 2024 in Britain and then last winter leaving ex-racehorse Humble Glory in the USA while she went back to Australia. The pair have an excellent cross-country record at five-star and while their dressage is nothing to write home about, they could well finish on that first-phase score.

Vassily De Lassos, 17 ch g,
Jaguar Mail x Jalienny,
Linda Mars, Pat Harris & rider

Andrew was winning medals at championships well before his team-mates were born. At one time considered a byword for reliability, Tokyo individual bronze and team silver medallist Vassily went through a patch of ropey form, but seems to be back on stable ground now. Sixth in the hot CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen in June. Dark horses for an individual medal.

SS Eight Count, 13 br g,
Hamlet x unlisted,
rider, his mother Milea & Nicola Gilbert

This pair are based in Australia and were second at Adelaide CCI5* in April. They also have five top-two four-star placings on their CV. Their dressage is likely to leave them off the pace in this field but they’ve had only one cross-country mishap in the past two years and will hope for a good showing on this northern hemisphere and championship debut.

Vitorio Du Montet, 17 b g,
Lando x Arpège Pierreville,
rider, Christian Stelzl & Claudia Stelzl-Schürer

Harald rode at the 2006 World Championships here in Aachen. This horse was a five-star top-10 finisher for Maxine Livo before he joined Harald in 2023 and the pair finished inside the top 35 at the 2024 Paris Olympics and 2025 Europeans. They’ve been in the top five at two less competitive CCI4*-S this year. Should achieve another solid completion.

Chevalier 97, 16 b g,
Kürten x Falkenhof’s Lancer,
O. St. Auto-Pichler Autovermietungs u. Handels GmbH

Daniel has ridden at three senior Europeans, including Haras du Pin in 2023 with this horse, but will aim for a first championship completion. And Chevalier 97 won a small-field CCI4*-S in Austria last year but their form is very mixed, with their three runs this year comprising third out of six at CCI4*-L, a retirement and a withdrawal at a final trot-up.

Renegade, 10 b m,
Desirao x Rosario,
rider, Marion Hazrati & Günter Wolf

Katrin has become a championship stalwart over the past decade and piloted this young home-bred to a very slow clear across country at the Blenheim Europeans last year. They were recently second in a small-field CCI4*-L at Strzegom in Poland, though their CV is also peppered with less successful outings, so a completion would be an achievement.

Watermill Giorgio RS, 15 db g,
Carambole x KEC Maximum Joe,
Andreas Rüedi

Lea achieved Austria’s best championship result last year when fifth at the Europeans on Van Helsing P. This horse, a championship debutant who joined Lea in 2024, probably won’t reach those heights but he’s had some good results at CCI4*-S, as well as a few blips. His showjumping record is notable – he hasn’t had a fence down for two years.

Gravin Van Cantos, 15 b m,
unlisted x unlisted,
rider, his son Thijs & An Van Laethem

Maarten’s only previous championship experience is the 2022 worlds with this horse, where he had a fall. Since then, Gravin Van Cantos has led the Belgians to junior team silver in 2025 under Maarten’s son Thijs. With Maarten, he can do a sub-30 dressage test and has a good cross-country record (if sometimes slow) but showjumping can be his downfall.

Ragdoll De Tamise, 9 b m,
Vigo D’Arsouilles STX x Cream On Top HDH,
rider & Joris de Brabander

Wouter made his senior championship debut at last year’s Europeans with Quintera, but had a fall. Young mare Ragdoll De Tamise has a 100% clear cross-country jumping record at four-star. While mid-to-high 30s dressage and time-faults will prevent her from being competitive, Wouter can aim to nurse her round for a confidence-building completion.

Kiarado D’Arville, 10 b g,
Diarado x Jet Set Du Rezidal,
Five Star Eventers & Larga Sprl

Lara has emerged as a serious player on the world stage in the past few years with a five-star win in 2024 and seventh at last year’s Europeans on Hooney D’Arville. Kiarado is Hooney’s half-brother (both out of Lara’s first championship horse, Nooney Blue) and won Boekelo last year. He’s backed that up with strong results this spring, so one to watch.

Leipheimer Van’t Verahof, 15 ch st,
Vigo D’Arsouilles STX x South Gale,
Joris de Brabander

This is Karin’s 31st senior championship, the most of any event rider here. The stallion “Leipi”, who was 16th at the Paris Olympics, has fought back from two colic operations in 2025. Time-faults have always been Karin’s Achilles’ heel and she will also want to recapture her Paris dressage form (26.6) as she hasn’t had a sub-30 with this horse since then.

Google Van Alsingen, 15 ch m,
Watch Me x Forever,
Alsingen Bvba

Senne and Google Van Alsingen were clear across country on their senior championship debut at the 2022 worlds. They’ve continued competing at championships and five-stars since. While on paper their form has been mixed, most of the downs have been withdrawals, a flag penalty or a frangible rather than serious errors. Can aim for the top 25.

Royal Encounter, 11 b g,
Lancelot x Cavalier Royale,
rider, Ana Julia Jorge, Alastair, Annabel & Ken Vere Nicoll

Marcio is a three-time Olympian based in Wiltshire. He and Royal Encounter impressed at Badminton with sixth after dressage and went on to finish 21st. Also second at Millstreet CCI4*-L last year in good company. Have had the odd blip but should be able to record a useful result, although time-faults will probably prevent them from capitalising on dressage.

Withington, 15 b g,
Wolkenderry x Loughgou Guy,
rider, Helen Tayton-Martin & James Noble

Withington was bred by Sam Ecroyd’s mother Penny and Sam is among his former riders. Rafael rode him to 27th at the Paris Olympics and 31st at Badminton last year; they have a good record in the jumping phases without being super-competitive. Wiltshire-based Rafael is a worlds debutant but has good experience at other championships.

Safira, 14 ch m,
Spring’s Spirit x Uptons Deli Circus,
rider & John Chambers

Safira is a home-bred for her co-owners, Springfield Stud. She contested the Paris Olympics with Carlos, but was withdrawn after cross-country. The pair have a 100% clear cross-country jumping record internationally. The rest of their profile doesn’t suggest they will give the leaders anything to worry about, but no reason they can’t record a completion.

Fluorescent Adolescent, 18 sk m,
Gaudi x Ali Baba,
Sharon Hall & Makayla Rydzik

The coloured mare “Lacey” was competed by her co-owner, Jessica’s student Makayla Rydzik, up to three-star with three-time Olympian Jessica taking over in 2022. They have 10 top-10s at four-star and were 14th at Kentucky five-star last year. Dressage is a stumbling block, but should go well across country and bring a fun variety to proceedings.

Chicko, 16 b g,
Orea x Limmerick,
rider & Kate & Peter Willis

Cheshire-based Alex, a standing dish at championships, took over this horse in 2023 from Polly Stockton. They’ve been in the top six at Pau twice and won two four-stars, most recently at Aston-le-Walls in July. Jumped round Badminton in May but spun at final trot-up. Alex invariably does a great dressage test at big championships, but never quite seems to follow through.

Turin, 12 b g,
Tiznit x Rock N Roll,
rider

This is Pavel’s first worlds, but he’s ridden at two Europeans, including last year on this horse, who he’s produced through the levels – they were 38th with a very slow jumping clear across country. Their performances in all three phases don’t suggest they’ll feature at the business end, but they generally have a good cross-country jumping record so no obvious reason they can’t get round.

Qaid, 13 b g,
Quadam x Corrado II,
Patrik Sukdolak

Matej rode at two young rider Europeans, including on this horse in 2022. Since then, they’ve gained mileage at four-star, with mostly jumping clears across country although you shouldn’t rush out to watch their dressage, which will be in the high 30s at best. Here for experience at their first senior championship.

Mellevue Van Rechteren, 9 b m,
Carrera VDL x Broere VDL Corland,
Adela Svobodova

Mellevue Van Rechteren is one of the youngest and least experienced horses at this event – she’s done just three four-stars, one clear and two with a frangible breakage across country. Hopefully a win at CCI3*-L at Strzegom in June will give confidence and Miroslav can use his experience from four previous championships to help her round.

H.Carald Z, 10 b g,
Herald 3 x Solos Landtinus,
rider & Helle Kristiansen

This is Peter’s fifth worlds in a senior championship career stretching back to 1997. Not here to win but he looks to have given this home-bred horse a solid preparation for the step up to championship level and he hasn’t had a cross-country jumping fault since his first international run in 2022. Recently 14th in the hot CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen.

Utrera AA 351, 13 gr m,
Veloce De Favi x Fusain Du Defey,
José Cañedo Angoso

This pair have a good cross-country jumping record, with a flag penalty in Paris one of the few blips on their CV. The mare has only had one international run this year, finishing second at Kronenberg CCI4*-S in June. They won’t be aiming for the podium, but Spain’s sole contenders in the eventing here can hope for a decent completion.

Quelle Bonne, 11 ch m,
Qualito x Diarado,
Cajus Aminoff
& Maria Lucander-Aminoff

Axel is a senior championship debutant. He and Quelle Bonne had some cross-country problems as they stepped up to four-star in 2024/25, but their 2026 record has been good, including second in a small-field CCI4*-L with just 0.8 of a showjumping time-fault to add to their dressage. The first phase isn’t great, so will hope to climb the leaderboard.

Bofey Click, 17 db g,
Chirlon x Distinctly North,
rider’s husband Elmo Jankari,
Michael Siebert, Petra Siebert-
Lindemann, rider’s brother
Sami, Tmi Ratsastusmennus
Sanna Siltakorpi

Bofey Click had 20 penalties at the corner complex that ended a few British hopes at last year’s Europeans, but he generally has a good record and won a small-field CCI4*-L on his dressage score in May. Sanna first rode at senior championship in 2009 and this is her third worlds; no reason she can’t put up another solid mid-field completion.

Je’Vall, 12 gr st,
Zavall VDL x Corrado,
Michel Mitius,
rider,
Christelle & Yannick Goury

This pair impressed at the Blenheim Europeans last year when they finished sixth individually and led the French to team bronze. That result was not out of turn after sixth at Bramham CCI4*-S last year and seventh at Saumur CCI4*-L in 2024. Seventh in a CCI4*-S at Vittel in June is their only international run since Blenheim, but ones to watch.

Zaragoza, 13 b m,
Cevin Z x Saracen Hill,
Martin Thurlow & Jane Young

This Surrey-based pair were sixth at the last worlds and eighth (team bronze) at the 2023 Europeans. They haven’t been to a championship since, but have notched some strong five-star form in the interim, with sixth and seventh at Burghley, and seventh at Badminton this year. Their dressage is inconsistent, but very competitive on their best form.

Figaro Fonroy, 11 ch g,
Huppydam Des Horts x
Oberon Du Moulin,
Aurelie Losin

Benjamin and Figaro Fonroy were ninth at last year’s Europeans as individuals, backing up previous good form. Fifth at Marbach CCI4*-S in good company is their only international run this year. They were eliminated on their previous Aachen appearance, so will want to forget that, but aside from that, they have a good record and the top 15 could beckon.

Alertamalib’Or, 16 b g,
Summer Song x Prince Ig’Or,
Aliette Forien,
Pascal Ravery,
rider & Nicolas Paul

Astier is an experienced championship rider, who was a team gold and individual silver medallist at the 2016 Olympics. This horse made an unimpressive championship debut at the last worlds, but his good results since include second at Bramham CCI4*-S last year and 16th at the Europeans, with a frangible breakage. Top 10 contenders or even better.

Diabolo Menthe, 13 gr g,
Scareface De Mars x
Caesar Van De Helle,
Francoise
Niclaus & SC Mezard Sports

Diabolo Menthe has not done a great deal since being a team silver medallist in Paris, when showjumping let down his individual performance, but has been second at CCI4*-S level on his past two outings. Nicolas is a double European champion and holds Olympic team medals of every colour, but is yet to be a worlds medallist, something he could well achieve this time.

Lordships Graffalo,
14 b g,
Birkhof’s Grafenstolz
TSF x Rock King,
Michele & Archie Saul

Ros, the 2018 world champion on Allstar B, landed individual fourth at the last worlds, a first championship for “Walter”. He’s since become one of the very best event horses in the world – five-time British five-star winner, European champion and Olympic team gold medallist. The individual gold is likely to be a showdown between Ros, Laura Collett and Michael Jung.

London 52, 17 b g,
Landos x Quinar Z,
Keith Scott,
Karen Bartlett & rider

A gold here would complete the European, world and Olympic set for London 52 before he retires. He and Laura are starting at their seventh consecutive senior championship, with their record including individual and team European golds, two Olympic team golds and an individual Olympic bronze. Also three-time five-star winners. Among the favourites.

D. Day, 12 b g,
Billy Mexico x
Dilum,
Lucy Matthews,
Fiona Olivier, Marie Anne Richardson & Heather Royle

Caroline and D. Day are worlds first-timers, who secured their spot with a Luhmühlen win – their second five-star win (also Pau 2024). They’ve had good four-star form too; the one high-profile blip on their record is a fall at the 2025 Europeans on their championship debut. Dressage isn’t D. Day’s thing, but hopefully he’ll rise through the ranks.

JL Dublin, 15 db g,
Diarado x Canto 16,
Deirdre Johnston & Jo & James Lambert

Olympic team gold medallists and last year’s European individual bronze medallists, this pair have been top-three at three five-stars and won five CCI4*-Ss. Overshadowed by their team-mates in star billing, but would top the list for any other nation and could be individual medallists as well as team players. Tom took world team gold in 2018 on Toledo De Kerser.

Flash Cooley, 14 gr g, CSF Mr Kroon x OBOS Quality,
Pru Dawes

It’s been eight years since Gemma’s last championship, when she and Arctic Soul were pathfinders for the gold medal-winning worlds team in Tryon. Flash Cooley has been in the top three at seven four-stars since the start of 2025. He’s reliably in the mid to high 20s in the dressage and could be a serious contender despite being a championship debutant.

Carlitos Quidditch K, 14 gr g,
Quiwi Dream x San Patrignano Cassini,
Bodil Ipsen

Semi-professional rider Malin was a latecomer to top-level sport – she sprang to prominence when she won Blenheim CCI4*-L the same week as the last worlds, in 2022, on this horse. They have since finished in the top 20 individually, winning team silver and gold, at two Europeans and been top six at two five-stars. Very much top-10 contenders.

FischerChipmunk FRH, 18 b g,
Contendro I x Heraldik,
German Olympic committee for equestrian sport, Klaus & Sabine Fischer & rider’s father Joachim

Olympic champions and twice European individual silver medallists, winners of 17 internationals including two Kentucky five-stars. Their record isn’t perfect, but Michael starts as one of the favourites. World champion in 2010, he lost the 2022 title on showjumping; will two down on their most recent outing foretell a repeat or can Chipmunk triumph as he nears retirement?

Uelzener’s Nickel, 12 db g,
Numero Uno x Lorentin,
Bernd Heicke

Julia was Olympic champion in 2021 and world individual silver medallist in 2022 on Amande De B’Neville. This horse was 11th in Paris when called up as a young reserve and he has super form, his six wins at four-star including one in Aachen in 2024. Julia also produced Michael Jung’s ride FischerChipmunk FRH and rode him at the 2018 worlds.

Caramia FRH, 16 b m,
Comte x Fabriano,
rider’s parents Annelie & Martin

Libussa made her senior championship debut last year, acting as pathfinder for the gold medal-winning Europeans team on Caramia. Impressive on the flat; cross-country time-faults and showjumps down are likely to be their weak points. The mare was home-bred by Libussa’s parents and ridden by her brother to three-star before she took over in 2019.

D’Accord FRH, 14 b g,
Diarado x Aarking,
Stefan Haupt & Hendrik Von Paepcke

Christoph was a team gold medallist at the last worlds on Carjatan S. D’Accord FRH makes his championship debut off the back of strong form including seventh at Badminton last year and a recent win at Avenches CCI4*-S. They had an odd error at Burghley last year when Christoph fell off at a plain fence, but should be well-placed to be useful team members.

Piltown Harry, 11 ch g,
Harlequin Du Carel x Cavalier Royale,
Joachim & Julia Doerfer & E Pogany

Noémi, who started her equestrian life as a vaulter, was based with Austin O’Connor from 2020 to 2023 and took over Piltown Harry from him in 2022. She now lives in Germany. She made her championship debut at the Europeans last year on this horse, finishing 22nd. Their form isn’t super-competitive but they’ll hope to keep building experience here.

Clover 15, 13 ch g,
Carrico x Landcapitol,
Magyar Lovassport Szövetség

Balázs and Clover 15 completed the last worlds in Pratoni in 2022, with a very slow clear across country and an expensive showjumping round. They’ve only had one cross-country jumping problem since, so can hopefully get round again, although they wouldn’t expect to be troubling the sharp end of the leaderboard.

D’Avril Du Pinier, 13 b g,
Ok Du Rozel x Vert Et Rouge,
rider

Ashish has ridden at two Asian Games, taking individual gold and team silver in 2025, but this is his first championship at this level. He studied engineering before devoting himself to eventing and is based in Germany. This horse was produced in Britain by Poppy Clark and has been with Ashish since 2025; they are very inexperienced so completion is the aim.

Mokatoo, 13 br g,
Helenenhof’s Catoo x Amigo xx,
Johanna Pohjonen Eventing Oy & rider

Fouaad was 23rd at the Tokyo Olympics and rode at the last worlds on Seigneur Medicott. Mokatoo started his international career with Fouaad’s girlfriend, Finland’s Johanna Pohjonen. He’s inexperienced at this level, with a mixed record, so Fouaad will hope to repeat the jumping performances that led to second in a small-field CCI4*-L in April.

Millridge Atlantis, 12 gr g,
Dinan Cascaletto x Warrenstown You 2,
Ber, Fiona & Gerry Leahy

A first worlds for Ian, who was the anchorman for Ireland at last year’s Europeans with this horse, finishing 14th and helping the team to silver. Among their best career results are a win at Ballindenisk CCI4*-S on their dressage score in 2024. Their form is consistent and includes two good Aachen finishes, so should be set to be useful team players again.

Full Monty De Lacense, 11 b g,
Quickly De Kreisker x Vesontio Du Mesnil,
Ace of Spades Syndicate

Oxfordshire-based Aoife took over the ride on this horse from Jonelle Price last year. They made the team for the Europeans and were the discard score when they had a fall, but came back strongly this year with a dressage score finish at Bramham CCI4*-L for fourth. Aoife has ridden at one previous worlds – she was 20th at Caen in 2014 on Fenyas Elegance.

MGH Zabaione, 10 b g,
Zavall VDL x Acobat I,
Peter Cattell, Diane Brunsden & rider

Padraig lives in Devon. He collected double world silver in 2018 on Mr Chunky. This horse is a truly exciting prospect – winner of the young horse class at Blenheim in 2024, he’s been building experience since, with good results including a CCI4*-L win at Ballindenisk and the odd hiccup. Could be competitive but may be protected with the future in mind.

Kojak, 11 b| g,
Namelus R x Contender,
Molly Fisher, Lucy Fleming, Samantha Wilson & rider

Georgie comes to her first senior championship, having changed nationality three years ago – she was a three-time youth medallist for Britain. Kojak’s four top-10 finishes at four-star include second in the Blenheim young horse championship in 2024. Georgie often does a good test but has cross-country time-faults, plus he’s a young horse, so that may repeat.

Colorado Blue, 17 gr g,
Jaguar Mail x Rock King,
The Salty Syndicate & rider

This pair have been a wonderful part of the five-star scene over the past few years, winning Maryland 2023 and finishing third at Badminton twice, plus second at Burghley. A championship doesn’t quite play into their hands so well, with the emphasis on the first phase, but if they do their best test (high 20s), they could climb to the podium.

It’s Athene, 10 b m,
Amber x Catoo,
Marco Aondio & Cristiana Bertero

Francesco makes his senior championship debut on this young mare who he has produced through the grades. Time-faults and high 30s to low 40s dressage scores will keep them lower down the field, but hopefully can gain good experience if they can forget their first cross-country jumping penalties together, incurred on their final prep run in Avenches.

Cecelia Lad, 11 b g,
BMC Tolan R x Renkum Englishman,
Enrico Cincinatti & Beatrice Maggi

Andrea has brought this horse through the grades and their form has been a bit patchy, with downsides including a recent 20 jumping penalties at CCI3*-S in Avenches. Their top-10 placings have come in small fields, but they did complete the strong CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen in June, with a steady clear across country. Championship debutants.

DHI Jackpot, 12 gr g,
Durango VDL x Ahorn Z,
rider, Jan & Peter Price, Marty Johnson, Amanda & Edward Benson, Madeleine Lapworth, Elizabeth & Henry Pelham, Janet & Peter Whitehead & Andrew Rickerby

Gloucestershire-based Vittoria has won two European team bronzes, but oddly, her only World Championship experience is withdrawing Borough Pennyz when she didn’t feel right in the dressage warm-up in 2014. This horse was 25th at the Europeans last year and has had decent four-star form this year, including 12th in the crack Luhmühlen CCI4*-S.

Zinny, 10 ch m,
Can Can Del Terriccio x Abdullahh,
Cintia Maria Campello, Leopoldo Torlonia & rider

Based in Wiltshire, Paolo was 27th at the Blenheim Europeans last year with this horse. They fell at Luhmühlen CCI4*-S in June, but restored confidence with a double jumping clear at open intermediate. Further back, their best result is fifth in a CCI4*-L at Ballindenisk last April. With dressage often in the 40s they won’t be competitive, but can gain useful mileage.

Duke Of Champions, 15 br g,
Duke Of Hearts x Noble Champion,
Philip Hunt, Jo Preston-Hunt & Joyce Snook

An experienced pair who’ve been together since 2021 and jumped clear round the worlds four years ago, but showjumping let them down there. Last year’s Blenheim Europeans wasn’t their week, but they have four top-12s at four-star on their CV and if they can put all the pieces together, could be in the top 25. Giovanni is based in Gloucestershire.

Feroza Nieuwmoed, 16 b g,
VDL Groep Zagreb x Frisbee Kerellec,
Riding Club Crane Co Ltd

Ryuzo, who works out of Angela Tucker’s yard, was a 2024 Olympic team bronze medallist with Cekatinka JRA. With Feroza Nieuwmoed, he has a three-year unblemished cross-country jumping record, including 15th at Burghley 2024 and 27th at Badminton 2025. Reliable team scorer, while time-faults and mid-30s dressage likely to peg individual ranking.

Vinci De La Vigne JRA, 17 b g,
Esterel Des Bois SF x Duc Du Hutrel,
Japan Equestrian Federation

Kento, who is based with Pippa Funnell, makes his championship debut. Vinci De La Vigne has the experience to hold his hand, from seventh at the 2018 worlds with France’s Astier Nicolas to team bronze in Paris with Kazuma Tomoto. He and Kento won a small-field CCI4*-S in Montelibretti in February and their other form is solid, bar a fall at Belsay. 

Jefferson JRA, 15 b g,
Jaquino x Colman,
Japan Equestrian Federation 

Toshi, another rider under Angela Tucker’s wing, was 15th at the 2018 worlds on Talma D’Allou and a team bronze medallist in Paris with Jefferson JRA. Partners since 2023, this pair have a sturdy record together bar a fall at Blenheim in 2024 and, much like Ryuzo and his horse, should be useful team players without upsetting the top end of the leaderboard.

Legende P, 10 b g,
Dallas VDL x VDL Indoctro,
rider

Wiltshire-based Noor made her senior championship debut at the Paris Olympics on Cash In Hand. This horse joined her last year and they had some patchy form, but it all seems to have come together since they stepped up to four-star at Blenheim last year. Eighth in decent company in a CCI4*-L at Strzegom in April and can aim to keep building experience. 

Vigo Key SR Z, 13 b g,
Vigo D’Arsouilles STX x Favoritas,
Niels & Roel Bergsma

The youngest eventer in Aachen. A senior championship debut for this pair, who have done two junior and two young rider Europeans together – their solid cross-country record is marred only by a fall at the last one in 2025. Won a small-field CCI4*-S in 2025 and recently 10th in good company at Avenches CCI4*-S. Well positioned to gain great experience here.

Enjoy, 17 gr m, Cartano x Haarlem, rider, Jantien van Zon & Johan Worst

A fifth championship for this pair, who have a wealth of experience together. They’ve been winners at CCI4*-S in the past and scored three top-five placings at four-star last year. Their record also includes some blips, although not for a couple of years. Lack a bit of consistency, but if they could match up their best performances in every phase, could be top 20.

Seattle Park, 13 b g,
Reset x Brief Truce,
Lips Stables Associates VOF

Seattle Park started his career in Australia with worlds rider Sophia Hill and joined Jillian in 2024. Championship debutants, who’ve done just one CCI4*-L together, but did finish it with just 0.4 of a showjumping time-fault to add to their dressage score. Recently third in the CCI4*-S at Royal Jump. Inexperienced but no reason they can’t give it a good go. 

Hontoni, 14 bl g,
Bessemeind’s Quasimodo Z x Numero Uno,
Gisela & Hanno Riedlin

This pair were 20th at the Blenheim Europeans last year on their senior championship debut, with a double jumping clear. They’ve had some hiccups mixed in with more satisfactory results, including 20 jumping penalties across country recently in Avenches, so will want to put that behind them and hark back to their Blenheim form to build on that. 

Crossborder Radar Love, 13 b g,
Diarado x Claudio’s Son,
Jeanine Steentjes

A senior championship debutant who rode this horse at a junior and young rider Europeans before he spent 2024 with Raf Kooremans, finishing 26th in Paris. Crossborder Radar
Love has been back with Sterre since the start of 2025 and bar one frangible breakage, they have a consistent record of steady clears across country. Here for experience.

Rocket Man, 11 gr g,
Diacontinus x For Pleasure,
rider’s parents
Jean & Rob Johnstone

Gloucestershire-based Clarke has been a world team bronze medallist twice, in 2010 and in 2022. This horse was produced by Britain’s Eliza Bell and joined him in 2023. Clarke isn’t one to throw down a lot of flashy performances, but they’ve had eight top-10 finishes at four-star together and he knows what it takes to perform at this level. Dark horses. 

Lucas Stone, 10 b g,
Concreto x Robin Z,
rider, her husband Brayden, Fiona Edwards, Neil Robertson, David Taylor, Claire & Andrew Dubowski

The new girl on the Kiwi squad, who’s built a solid campaign and was selected on her second string when Ricker Ridge Sooty GNZ succumbed to injury. Lucas Stone was bought in Finland in early 2025. He won a CCI4*-L at Strzegom in October 2025 and had a run-out at Royal Jump in May, but then seventh at Luhmühlen CCI4*-S. Samantha is Wiltshire-based. 

Falco, 17 b g,
Cardenio 2 x Weinberg,
Sue Benson & rider

Double world bronze medallists in 2022. Falco’s record isn’t all plain sailing but he’s won a five-star (Pau 2021) and been second at two others (Maryland 2024 and Badminton 2026). Survived having a tumour removed in October 2023 and all his upper front teeth out last winter due to a rare disease. Could scoop another individual medal. Tim lives in Dorset.

Senor Crocodillo, 12 gr g,
Connor 48 x Exorbitant,
Alexander & Joseph Gianmarone & rider

Dorset-based Jonelle was a world team bronze medallist four years ago. This horse started his career with her team-mate Samantha Lissington and has had blips on the way up the levels with her and Jonelle but has been great over the past year – 10th at Pau CCI5*, a winner at Millstreet CCI4*-S and fifth at Bramham CCI4*-S. Should be top 20.

Artist, 15 b g,
Guillotine x Volksraad,
Spencer Eventing

This pair burst onto the international scene when world team bronze medallists in 2022 and have since scored six top-12 finishes at five-star. Artist is a good-moving thoroughbred and they will be right up there after dressage, but showjumping is their weakness and has led to some heartbreaking tumbles down the leaderboard. Monica is based in the USA.

Armin De Monsieur, 13 b st,
Moravia x Biskit,
rider & Marcin Sobolewski

This is Joanna’s first worlds, although she’s ridden at an Olympics and one senior Europeans. She’s had this horse since late 2023 – although he did one more event with former rider Kamila Cygan in 2024 – and after some faults early in their partnership, their cross-country jumping record has settled down, so hopefully can record a completion.

Felin De Chignan, 11 ch g,
Induparts Guidam Sohn x Wagenaar,
Peter Dubach

Switzerland is the only nation that has called out who will be the individual rider in advance and Angelika fills that berth. A senior championship debutante, she has a solid cross-country jumping record with Felin De Chignan, bar a fall in April this year, and will look to build experience without bothering the sharp end of the leaderboard.

Grandeur De Lully CH, 18 b g,
Greco De Lully CH x Apartos,
Jean-Jacques Fuenfschilling

Among the most experienced championship horses in the field, Grandeur De Lully comes forward for his seventh senior squad, with two 15ths his best results. He hasn’t had a cross-country jumping penalty since 2021 and his record includes four wins at CCI4*-S. Robin is a rising star for a rising nation and another top 15 finish is very possible.

Erin, 11 gr g,
Meneusekal x Un Amour IV,
rider & Syndicat Gama

This pair stepped up last year when they won a small-field CCI4*-L in the spring and finished 10th at the Europeans at Blenheim. Consolidated with fifth in a competitive CCI4*-S at Aachen last month. Showjumping is the weak link but keep an eye on them. Erin is from the Becas, the Spanish breeding family responsible for Andrew Nicholson greats such as Armada and Nereo.

Top Job’s Jalisco, 14 b g,
Pauillac De Meia Lua x Jalienny,
Peter Attinger & Martin Zak

Nadja keeps impressing on the international stage and it’s great to see her bringing another horse to a senior championship as her old faithful Toblerone nears the end of his career. Top Job’s Jalisco had some patchy form in 2024 and early 2025, but has gone well since, including fourth in the hot CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen in June. A leaderboard climber.

Frieda, 13 b m,
Casalito x Heraldik,
Phoenix Eventing S.à.r.l. & rider

Felix is a seasoned championship rider who has also won twice at five-star. Frieda made her championship debut at last year’s Europeans, where she had 20 penalties at The Suregrow Dew Pond, and has had a couple of top 10s at CCI4*-S since. Felix has a habit of rising above his form at championships with below-the-radar horses so don’t discount him.

Box Leo, 16 db g,
Jaguar Mail x Quite Easy,
Therese Örup

Frida and Box Leo were 17th at the last worlds and 12th at the Paris Olympics. Coupled with wins at their past two four-stars, that suggests they are on a roll of good form – if you discount a retirement in Marbach in May. Box Leo was initially produced in Britain by Ludwig Svennerstal and her dam Box Quite was also a championship horse for Sweden.

Hippo’s Sapporo TSF, 18 b g,
Perechlest x Blesk,
Vilma Essman, Forsbergeventing AB & Philipp Kolossa

Christoffer is a World Championships debutant, who has ridden at three Europeans including two on this horse. They retired at the Blenheim Europeans last year and have withdrawn post-dressage twice since, as well as having two top-sixes at four-star. They’ve won at four-star three times, so will want to recapture those performances in Aachen.

Caspian 15, 12 gr g,
LB Crumble x Heraldik,
Madeleine Brugman, rider & her father-in-law Hinrich Romeike

Louise – daughter-in-law of 2008 Olympic champion Hinrich Romeike – has plenty of championship experience. This horse impressed as a youngster at the Paris Olympics and his record suggests he’s improved steadily since. A CCI4*-S winner in Marbach last year and recently eighth in the strong CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen, he’s a top-15 contender.

Bryjamolga VH Marienshof Z, 15 b m,
Bamako De Muze x Lord Z Z,
rider & her parents Juliet & Mattias

This British-based pair were 34th at the last worlds, a result bracketed by 13th at the two Europeans in 2021 and 2023. Also 32nd in Paris, with an expensive flag penalty. Good results this year have only been interrupted by a fall in Marbach, but fifth at Millstreet CCI4*-S last month suggests all is back on track. Will hope to climb after dressage.

Corpoubet AT, 13 ch g,
Corpoval VDL x Baloubet Du Rouet,
rider & Helene & Per-Olof Staam

Amanda comes forward to her first World Championships, having completed the past two Europeans with Corpoubet AT (21st at Blenheim last year). They have also won twice at four-star back in 2021/22 and were recently fifth at Arville CCI4*-S. They have a few blips on their CV too and won’t bother the leaders here but can hope for a solid completion.

B.Grimm Chateau De Versailles M2S, 15 ch g,
Desir Du Chateau x Calvados,
rider & Nunthinee Tanner

A first worlds for “Bomb”, although he’s ridden at the Olympics and been an Asian Games medallist. This horse has been ridden by Bomb and off since 2018 and also competed by fellow Thai rider Kornwat Samran and Thai trainer Maxime Livio. His form is quite patchy, although he’s completed all his recent events so hopefully can do the same here.

B.Grimm Carouzo Bois Marotin, 14 b g,
Kannan x Flipper D’Elle*HN,
Harald Link, Nunthinee Tanner & Celine Fronteau

“Nut” finished 24th at the last worlds and has won Asian Games medals. This horse was competed to five-star by Thai trainer Maxime Livio, with Nut taking over at the end of 2024. They won a CCI4*-S at Strzegom last year and were recently 10th in the competitive CCI4*-S at Luhmühlen – so could be headed for the top 25 again in Aachen.

Baladin De L’Ocean LA, 15 ch g,
Veloce De Favi x Noyalo,
rider

Raised in New York until she was 14, Kumru rode in showjumping youth championships and works in that field in Germany, riding her eventers in the evenings. She made her eventing championship debut at last year’s Europeans, finishing 37th with a steady clear across country on this horse, who came from Astier Nicolas. Here to keep building experience.

Diabolo, 14 db g,
Diarado x Aljano 2,
Diabolo Group

Will (a 2022 world team silver medallist) and Diabolo won Kentucky CCI5* in April and they’ve has also won three times at CCI4*-S since the horse joined Will in 2023, from the Tinney family in Australia. This is a long-awaited team debut, as Diabolo was withdrawn at the last minute from the Paris Olympics due to abscess, and they are real individual medal contenders.

Denim, 11 b g,
Dinken x Ibisco,
Ann Jones, Ann Lapides, Caroline Moran & Neill Sites

Phillip is a vastly experienced rider who contested the 2006 worlds here for Australia, his last championship under that flag before he changed nationality. Denim was swapped into the squad instead of original selection Possante. Twelve top-10 finishes at four-star, but he had 20 jumping penalties across country on his last outing and time-faults may be a factor.

Cooley Nutcracker, 12 bl g,
BMC Tolan R x Cobra,
Liz’s Nutcrackers

Boyd was part of the world team silver in 2022 on Tsetserleg TSF. This horse was Liz Halliday’s ride at the Paris Olympics, finishing 19th, shortly before her life-changing head injury. She’s still part of his ownership syndicate, so this is an emotional story. With Boyd, he’s won a CCI4*-L and was 11th at Kentucky CCI5* in the spring, despite a flag penalty.

HSH Blake, 11 bl g,
BMC Tolan R x Kannan,
Mollie Hoff, rider’s mother Sherrie Martin, rider & her husband Deniz

Caroline and HSH Blake were the 2023 Pan Am Games champions and much talked about pre-Paris, where their experience perhaps caught out horse and rider for an average finish. Caroline has since had a baby (also called Blake) and come back stronger; at five-star, they’ve been fourth at Maryland 2025 and second at Kentucky this spring. Ones to watch.

Lillet 3, 10 db m,
S.I.E.C. Livello x Calido I,
Molly Duda

Tamie was a world team silver medallist in 2022 on Mai Baum. Lillet 3, who came from Andreas Dibowski, has barely been out of the top three since joining her in 2024, bar a fall in 2025 and another at Bramham CCI4*-S in June. So could be competitive but not fully reliable. Owner Molly Duda was recently fifth at the under-25 worlds on Disco Traveler.

Name, age colour sex, breeding, (sire x dam sire), owners

An explanation of this horse and rider’s recent form.

Jagerbomb, 12,
b g,
Dante Weltino OLD x Jazz,
rider & Jo Cooper

A 76.43% grand prix average this season tells only half the story. This year’s two freestyles were outstanding – 85.31% then a personal-best 88.33% to win April’s World Cup Final. They’ve contested one special, scoring 77.58%, but were Britain’s best in that test at the Europeans in fifth. If any of the individual favourites falter, an individual medal isn’t out of reach.

Ivanhoe, 13 db g, Desperado x Jazz, rider & her husband Rob

The Australians lost their best horse in the build-up to Aachen when Jayden Brown’s Olympic ride Quincy B was withdrawn from contention and listed for sale. At six Olympics, no Australian woman matches Mary’s longevity — she’s the squad’s steadying hand. Competing exclusively in Australia this season, she’s averaging 69.14% in the grand prix.

Faye 43, 11 ch m, Fürst Wilhelm x Aljano 2, Theresa Semler, Andrew & Katie William

Isabell Werth’s former assistant rider, William impressed on his Olympic debut aboard Mysterious Star, scoring 69.95% in the grand prix. New ride Faye 43, in her first grand prix season, has already competed at championship-level venues — Aachen, Lier and Rotterdam — and just posted a personal best of 69.04% at Hagen, suggesting her ceiling is still rising.

Le Special, 10 bl g, Grey Flanell x Sir Oldenburg, McLean Reitsport GmbH, Andrew & Manuela McLean, Helena & Per Westerlund

Warwick was an international event rider before switching to dressage. His preparations were rocked when he and Le Special were involved in a serious multi-truck collision in May, though both emerged largely unscathed. They’ve since had two more grand prix starts, scoring 68.2% at Lier and 67.39% at Rotterdam, adding to an Aachen debut of 66.3%.

Will Marq, 10 b st, Rio Marq x Lanciano, Martin Fuchs

Simone was the Australian team’s top scorer in Paris, on former ride Destano. Her new ride, Spanish-bred Will Marq — owned by fiancé and international showjumper Martin Fuchs — is in his second season at grand prix and the pick of the team. A three-time grand prix winner — picking off a few big names en route — he’s not once dropped below 70% this season.

Dante’s Daiquiri, 12 bl m, Dante Weltino x Avagon, rider

Veteran Peter hasn’t been on a championship team since the 2011 Europeans — where he was 35th in the grand prix on Cointreau 10 (67.49%). A rare recall, with Austrian stalwarts Victoria Max-Theurer and Stefan Lehfellner missing selection for the first time in years. He’ll aim to score similarly to 2011 — and has been a steady mid-to-high 60s scorer all season.

Broadmoars Don Alfredo AWO, 13 ch g, Destano x His Highness 2, Broadmoor KG

A first senior championship at last summer’s Europeans ended in 36th in the grand prix (68.48%), bang in line with their season average — they’ve stayed a consistent, high-60s combination ever since. We’re estimating the special cut-off will be between 69% and 70%, so Bettina and Broadmoor KG will need to be on top form to make a coveted top-30 spot.

Fleur TSF, 14 b m, Kentucky x Birkhof’s Grafenstolz TSF, Trakehner Gestüt Murtal

Despite a long international career, this will be Ulrike’s first championship — seemingly frozen out after a feud between her former employers and then-Austrian federation president Elisabeth Max-Theurer. She has an 11-start grand prix average around 68.7% this season, and her scores have been on a clear upward curve, climbing to a 70% win in June.

Four Legends, 16 db st, Wynton x Ferro, rider’s father Michael Franz Simoncic

A remarkable turnaround: weeks after finishing second on her senior grand prix debut at the Austrian Championships last October, Felicita suffered severe bruising to her head and spine in a fall from a different horse. She is now back in full health, and her 2026 grand prix average sits around 66.9%, making her the likely discard score for Austria’s team total.

Lestor, 10 b g, Ghandi x Painted Black, Elisabeth, Jan-Pieter, Johan Devroe & Denis Reusens

Belgium finished just three points off the podium at the Euros last summer. It shouldn’t be that close again — if Jeroen, Larissa and Justin perform to season form, Belgium should get around a 224 total, some way shy of Denmark’s projected 231. The caveat is Jeroen: just one international grand prix this year with Lestor, 70.24%, leaves his form hard to call.

Flambeau, 16 b g, Ampère x Zeoliet, Caroline & Emmanuel Lepage & Jean & Marie Christine Pauluis

Belgium’s clear second-best combination behind Justin and Zonik Plus, this veteran pair have been the picture of consistency this season — seven grand prix starts, all between 71% and 74.2%, headlined by a personal best of 74.2% at Neumünster in February. That reliability, more than any single big score, is what Belgium will lean on to anchor their team total.

Zonik Plus, 10 bl st, Glock’s Zonik x Hohenstein 4, rider

Double European champions and Aachen favourites, they’ve been unbeaten since Crozet, scoring a freestyle personal best at Fontainebleau in April (of 91.86%) — Valegro’s 94.3% world record looks safe for a while longer. But a below-par 78.46% at ‘s-Hertogenbosch in March, and narrow wins over Lottie Fry and Glamourdale, hint this isn’t a one-horse race.

Jedai De Massa, 12 b g, Don Juan De Hus x Galopin De La Font, Jorinde Verwimp, Eon Jin Chin & J-Tack Korea

Likely Belgium’s drop score, Wim’s grand prix average of 69.5% this season trails his three team-mates, with a low of 64.63% in April the outlier. But riding Jedai De Massa, he edged out Jeroen Devroe to become Belgian champion in May, 32 years after his first title — don’t rule out another big performance, though qualifying for the special looks a stretch.

Jorge VO, 12 gr st, Xama Dos Pinhais x Icaro SA, José Victor Oliva Jr

Brazilian dressage has been in a bit of a mess recently. This is the first team they’ll enter at a major championships since 2018 — despite qualifying teams for the 2022 worlds and Paris 2024. But things look a bit more organised now; Murilo and Jorge VO have competed two grand prix this season (67.7%, 67.22%) but have never competed in Europe before.

Lizarran, 11 gr st, Zaire x
Xaquiro CIP, rider & Coudelaria
João Pedro Caleia, Unip.Lda

Nuno rode teammate João’s Feel Good VO at the 2022 worlds, finishing 85th in the grand prix on 62.9%. Now riding Lizarran, he’ll be aiming for an improved showing and arrives in noticeably better form – with an average of 67.08% across four starts this season, trending upward, with a season-best 69.02% at Companhia das Lezirias CDI3* last month.

Feel Good VO NRW, 14 b g,
Franziskus FRH x Dimension,
rider & José Victor Oliva Jr

João is Brazil’s leading dressage rider – having competed at three Olympics and the 2022 worlds; where he finished 21st in the special on former ride Escorial. Feel Good VO scored 70.1% at the Paris Games; he then spent the 2025 season as an under-25 horse for Marta Fernandes, returning to João this winter. Another plus-70% score would be a great result.

Hermes, 14 gr g, Rico x Noitibó,
Pedro Manuel Tavares de
Almeida

Manuel competed at the 2014 worlds in Caen on former ride Vinheste – although he may not want to be reminded of that, finishing 87th on 63.06%. He’s teamed up with Hermes this season, banking his second qualifying score for the worlds in May (66.15%). His grands prix range from 62.15% to 67.3% – he’ll hope to catch Hermes on a good day in Aachen.

Finnlanderin, 16 ch m,
Fidertanz x Donnerhall,
rider, Gilles Bergeron &
Marc-Antony Lussiers

Three years on from her international grand prix debut, Camille – a former under-25 world number one – has settled into solid form with Finnlanderin. Their grand prix average this season sits at 69.2% across four starts, and her most recent competition brought her best scores of the season: 71.67% in the grand prix, 70.13% in the special.

Jaccardo, 12 ch g, Jaccardo,
Desperado x Jazz, Jill Irving

Jaccardo made his international grand prix debut in August 2025 and his form since has been excellent: a 2026 grand prix average of 71.5% across four starts, with the special stronger still at 72.3%. A cast-in stall injury forced a late World Cup Final withdrawal in April, but he’s been back at full stretch ever since.

Come Back De Massa,
14 ch g, Galopin De La Font
x Quixote SDS, rider & Ellen
Lazarus

Denielle’s road to a championship debut has been a long one – shortlisted for two previous Olympics without selection, she’ll be relieved to finally go down the centre line. A former groom for US rider Ashley Holzer, Denielle and Come Back De Massa have been consistent this season: six grand prix starts, tightly bunched in the mid-to-high 60s, averaging 66.6%.

Londonderown, 13 ch m,
Londontime x San Amour,
Daniel Gauthier

Two-time Olympian Chris has built his season nicely as it’s gone on – four grands prix in 2026, climbing from 63.07% in March to 68.7% at Lier CDI3* in May. The special has been his stronger test all year – capped off with a season best 70.79% at Verolanuova CDI3* in June – but they’re unlikely to make it that far in Aachen.

Cyprus Ophelia, 16 b m,
Blue Hors Rosoff x Ragazzo,
rider

Gabriele has carried the flag for Cypriot dressage for a while now, riding this horse at the past two Europeans – the first rider from her nation to do so. Last on 60% in 2023, she improved to 65.45% in 2025. The pair have Aachen experience, scoring 67% in the CDI4* grand prix there in May. They’ll be looking to improve on their previous championship score.

Mount St John Freestyle,
17 db m, Fidermark x
Donnerhall, Mount St John
Equestrian LLP & Laudrup-
Dufour & Zinglersen ApS

Denmark’s banker. An 83.43% grand prix average, untouched all season, and top of the pile at the Europeans – expect the same here. But the real drama’s in the individual tests: twice denied by Verboomen and Zonik Plus at Crozet, 82.37% to 81.69% in the special, 89.96% to 89.82% in the freestyle, with barely a point in it either time. The rematch will be just as close.

Heiline’s Danciera,
15 bl m, Fürstenball x
De Niro, Poul Thøgersen

The last combination left from Denmark’s gold-medal team at Herning 2022. A controversial pick, following an eight-month suspension over a welfare case, an appeal and subsequent return. On form, there’s little to go on – one qualifying score this year, 74.04% at Göteborg – though her Danish Championship win in May (75.91%) points to better form than that alone shows.

Flash Gordon 37,
12 ch g, Fiderbach x
Don Romantic, Sofia Ek

A new partnership still finding its feet – 73.53% across three grands prix, comfortable enough to make the special. One special (75.64%) and two freestyles (79.99% average) hint at more to come. Bad luck cost them at the Danish championships – eliminated from the freestyle after blood was spotted in the mouth, with an 80%-plus score trending at the time.

Favour Gersdorf, 13 bl g,
Foundation 2 x Leandro, rider

Nadja made her senior championship debut in Crozet, where 71.23% comfortably cleared the specials cut and counted towards Denmark’s team total – Rikke Dupont’s 70% was the discard. She’s on a consistent 72.17% grand prix average this season, but against three stronger team-mates, she’s currently the one projected to make way if scores hold.

Idwinaretto, 13 b m, Everdale x Glock’s Johnson, Idwinaretto Syndicate LLC & rider

Yvonne retired former mount Aquamarijn after the Paris 2024 and skipped Wellington’s winter circuit for the first time in 11 years to focus on coaching. She now rides Idwinaretto – a former double individual gold medallist at the Central American and Caribbean Games – from her Gijon base in Spain. The pair have averaged 68% in the grand prix this season.

Jewel’s Goldstrike, 15 ch g,
Bretton Woods x Scandic, rider & rider’s wife Jessica

Julio and Pan-American individual gold medallist Jewel’s Goldstrike have been competing in the US this season, including a sixth-place finish at the World Cup Finals in Texas. Their 2026 grand prix average of 71.6% is up on last year’s 70.83%, and is hovering on the fringes of the threshold for the top 30 who’ll go through to the special.

Frizzantino FRH, 11 db st,
Finest x Quaterback, rider & Alexander Brenninkmeijer

Spain endured a frustrating Europeans, finishing ninth, with Borja and Frizzantino the only returning team combination. They squeezed into the special in Crozet, scoring 68.4%. Overall, their form this season hasn’t changed much, but they arrive in Aachen after personal bests in the grand prix (72.59%) and freestyle (77.7%) at Mâcon Chaintré CDI3*.

Hip By Johnson, 14 b st,
Glock’s Johnson x Negro, rider

Team debutantes Lucia and Hip By Johnson competed at the London International in December, finishing eventual 14th (70.99%). They’ve been averaging almost 68% in the grand prix since but, like team-mate Borja, got a personal best last time out, scoring 70.66% in the special at Hagen CDI04*. They’re unlikely to make it that far in Aachen.

Gladiador Do Lis, 15 b st,
Peralta Pinha x Spartacus, Lourdes Ariza Alduncin & Catalina Mena Carrasco

José Antonio and Gladiador Do Lis have emerged as the team’s leading combination, topping Spain’s scores at the Nations Cup in Hagen (71.7%) and finishing highest of the worlds-bound squad at Fontainebleau Nations Cup (70.15%). José Antonio reached the special at Herning 2022 with Divina Royal (73.88%) and a repeat looks within reach.

Flaconi W, 12 ch m, Foundation 2 x Breitling W, Brigitte & Wolfram Wittig

Olympian Severo Jurado López returns to team selection after a three-year absence. Flaconi W is in her first season at grand prix, with three outings so far. She won the grand prix (71.52%) and special (71.85%) at Olomouc CDI3*, before scoring 69.57% and 71.64% at Rotterdam CDI4*. The pair finished just behind José Antonio García Mena in Hagen.

Hagels Prince Nassak,
9 bl g, Pin Rock’s Black Velvet x Fernet, Passion for Dressage RY

Stella has had mixed luck at past worlds – hospitalised for eight days with meningitis after Caen 2014, then a late horse swap ahead of Herning 2022, finishing 41st on the leased Mount St John Kom Fairy Tale, available after Britain’s Amy Woodhead became pregnant. New ride Hagels Prince Nassak is still finding his feet at the level, averaging around 66.2%.

Tiffanys Diamond, 14 b m,
Tailormade Temptation x His Highness 2, Victoria Marie Schönhofen, Equeco GmbH & rider

The leading lights of the Finnish team, Henri and Tiffanys Diamond look to have kicked on since a mixed Europeans – 16th in the grand prix, but a below-par 25th in the special. Granted, their 2026 campaign has been a light one, just a single CDI so far, but it brought a strong return at Hagen: 72.78% in the grand prix, then 72.98% in the special.

Ypäjän Fioretto, 15 db g, Fürst Romancier x Sir Donnerhall, rider

Championship debutante Sironen was based in Britain with famed Finn Kyra Kyrklund and her husband Richard White at their West Sussex base. She returned there this season to prepare for the worlds, competing at Hickstead, Wellington and Hartpury, as well as at home in Finland and at Aachen – five grand prix starts in all, averaging 66.15%.

Dante NL, 13 b g, De Niro x Alantas, rider & Stable Nova OY

A tight, unspectacular grand prix campaign: four starts in 2026, bunched between 65.65% and 67.94% for an average of 67.14%. It puts him in the middle of the Finnish pack, though his spread is wider than Anu’s or Stella’s. All three look solid and consistent, offering a good base for Henri to build on – Finland will hope to beat their Euros total of 201.755 and 12th.

Ruling Olivia, 12 db m, Olivi x Aletto, rider & Karim Barake

No one does self-sabotage like the French: their best combination, Corentin Pottier and Gotilas Du Feuillard, have been left out amid an ongoing feud with team selector Jean Morel, all but ruling out a marked improvement on France’s 10th-place Europeans finish and Olympic qualification. Alexandre and Ruling Olivia are a steady mid-to-high 60s pairing.

Sertorius De Rima Z, 16 db g, Sandro Hit x Voltaire, French Horse and Riding Institute

An experienced pair, into a fifth straight championship after a disappointing Europeans last summer, where their grand prix score (68.59%) fell short of season norms. They’ve bounced back since – a 2026 average around 71% in the grand prix, and the freestyle in good health, with a season-best 80.47% at Bordeaux, making it that far again is the aim this time round.

Ginger, 15 b m, Glock’s Tango x Don Primero, Annabel Moreau & SARL Ecurie Chauchard

Bertrand took a patient path with Ginger, debuting her at grand prix only two years ago, after first riding her as a green seven-year-old. That careful build looks to be paying off: their 2026 grand prix average sits around 67%, a touch up on last year’s Europeans, where their 66.23% was France’s discard score – whether it is again this time looks a close call.

Bel Amour, 14 ch st, Bretton Woods x Donnerhall, rider & Regine Fimbel

The only newcomer to the team from the Europeans, championship debutantes Alizee and Bel Amour replace Anne Sophie Serre and Jibraltar De Massa. A former rider for Paul Schockemöhle, Alizee brings a 2026 grand prix average around 66.9% – the weakest of France’s scores, although her best two scores have both come in the past three months.

Glamourdale, 15 bl st, Lord Leatherdale x Negro, Van Olst Horses & rider

The current individual world champions lead the British grand prix average this season with 79.62% across three starts – a sharp reversal of last summer’s sub-76% at the Europeans. Freestyle form is imperious – 88.87%, also across three starts. They haven’t ridden a special this season, but will be hoping to improve on a disappointing 75.29% at the Europeans.

Fame, 16 b st, Bordeaux x Rhodium, Fiona Bigwood, Mette Dahl & rider

Carl and Fame’s 76.75% grand prix average is second-best in the squad, just ahead of Becky and Jagerbomb – but the real story is consistency: eight international starts from Paris onward, never below 75.8%, topping out at 78.26%. At 16, Fame is still finding new levels too – June’s Wellington freestyle (85.21%) was his best mark in almost three years.

Jagerbomb, 12 b g, Dante Weltino OLD x Jazz, rider & Jo Cooper

A 76.43% grand prix average this season tells only half the story. This year’s two freestyles were outstanding – 85.31% then a personal-best 88.33% to win April’s World Cup Final. They’ve contested one special, scoring 77.58%, but were Britain’s best in that test at the Europeans in fifth. If any of the individual favourites falter, an individual medal isn’t out of reach.

Donna Bella, 10 ch m, Don Juan De Hus x Gribaldi, rider

Donna Bella’s rise has been rapid. After winning the grand prix at Hartpury CDI3* on 72.22% in March, Fiona earned a Nations Cup debut at Fontainebleau, where they scored a solid 71.63%. Successive grand prix personal bests of 73.13% at Hickstead and 74.61% at Wellington then sealed selection ahead of her championship rivals.

Denoix PCH, 14 ch g, Destano x Pik Noir, Nancy Gooding & Hubertus Schmidt

This pair were debutantes at last summer’s Europeans, with Katharina the standout among the six scores that counted for Germany and Britain – the only one to beat her season’s average, jumping from 74.3% to 75.7% as Germany won gold by just 2.86 points. They’ve had a disrupted season but returned to form in the grand prix at Hagen, winning July’s selection trial with 77.02%.

Great Escape Camelot, 15 db g, Glock’s Johnson x Turbo Magic, Theres Boss & Sonja Kristina Krall

A protégé of Olympic champion Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, Raphael will make his senior championship debut, replacing Ingrid Klimke from Germany’s Europeans squad. Camelot missed the World Cup Final with a hoof abscess, but his grand prix average has been tight all season: 73.72% from four starts, none more than a quarter-point from the mean.

Bluetooth OLD, 16 db g, Bordeaux x Riccione, Equitorus GmbH

Frederic and Bluetooth have been a picture of consistency in the grand prix for three seasons, averaging in the mid-70s throughout and up to 76.83% so far in 2026, with all this season’s results in a tight band. They’ll be a key part of Germany’s gold-medal bid – keep an eye on how their head-to-head scores with Britain’s Carl Hester and Becky Moody stack up.

Wendy De Fontaine, 12 bl m, Sezuan x Blue Hors Soprano, Château De Fontaine & Madeleine Winter-Schulze

One of the individual medal favourites, Isabell was a two-time individual bronze medallist at the Europeans last summer. Her grand prix and special form remains rock-solid this season, but the kür is where she looks vulnerable, trailing Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour, Justin Verboomen and Lottie Fry. With the home crowd behind her, though, never bet against Isabell.

Robinvale, 19 b g, Rubinero 2 x Wittinger, rider

Theodora makes her senior championship debut as one of the youngest riders in the field, though she has a wealth of international mileage, partnered with Robinv[...]e — one of the oldest horses in the field. The pair contested the under-25 Europeans and World Cup circuit together before stepping up; anything over 66% in the grand prix would mark a solid start.

Imhotep, 13 ch g, Everdale x Vivaldi, rider

Diana switched allegiances from Austria to Hungary in February and will partner Charlotte Dujardin’s 2022 worlds ride, Imhotep. She’s averaging just under 71% in the grand prix, nearly eight points down on Imhotep’s career average with Charlotte. She’ll need to clear that to reach the special, and with a horse of this pedigree, that should be the expectation.

Jiodinus PP, 12 b g, El Primero x Burggraaf, rider

A first championship call-up for Pavlina after five years quietly building international experience. Jiodinus PP is a showjumping-bred gelding but they’ve been competing internationally since May 2025. Consistent mid-60s scores all season suggest Aachen will be about soaking up the experience rather than chasing qualification for the special.

Miestral D’Ferraria, 10 b g, Escorial x unregistered, Ana Sofia Valença Rodrigues

Dara will be the first Indonesian rider to compete at a World Championships. Partnering the inexperienced Lusitano Miestral D’Ferraria, her grand prix scores this season have ranged from 56.63% to 66.7%, averaging 64.06% across five starts. For a combination still finding its feet on the international stage, clean, positive rounds will be the aim in Aachen.

Ganesh, 15 b g, Jazz x Partout, Michelle Begley

Kevin will be making his senior team debut, having left securing his place to the last minute. A second MER at Hartpury CDI3*, scoring 66.96% to finish 14th, arrived just before the team was announced. His grand prix scores have hovered in the mid-to-high 60s all season, so a solid team contribution in Aachen would be a fine result.

Top Gear, 14 bl st, Totilas x Don Frederico, Elite Stallions

Perhaps Ireland’s most exciting combination on their day, but a hard one to call. The pair have the lowest grand prix average of the four Irish combinations heading to the World Championships — 64.8% from six starts — and the widest spread of scores, ranging from a personal-best 67.48% last time out to a low of 61.28% the outing prior.

Vanotti, 13 b g, Vitalis x Florestan I, Chiara Olper

Hugely experienced, having competed at three previous World Championships, Milan-based James and Vanotti arrive with by far the busiest campaign of the four Irish combinations — seven grands prix across four countries this season, averaging 67.05%. They should provide the consistent scores the otherwise young team can orbit around.

Dan Its Carston, 13 b g, Durable x Clearway, Jennifer Whittaker

Jess is Ireland’s top scorer going into the worlds, with a season-best 69.5% at Aachen CDI3*. It probably won’t be enough to help the team get one of the six quota spots available for Olympic qualification, but for this exciting combination, it’ll be valuable championship experience — with a more realistic tilt at LA 2028 likely to come via the 2027 Europeans.

Carpe Diem De Massa, 14 gr st, Maestro JGB x Violino SDS, rider

Florida-based Micah has long been a flagbearer for Israeli dressage and was part of the nation’s first team to compete at a Nations Cup. Her season with Lusitano Carpe Diem De Massa has been solid but unremarkable — a 65.12% grand prix average across seven starts. Some feel American scores don’t travel to Europe; Micah will hope to prove otherwise.

Nabab, 13 db g, Sir Donovan x Krack C, Jurga Girniute-Bogdaniene, Ramunas Bogdanas & rider

Justina and Nabab withdrew from last summer’s Europeans without competing after a suspected virus among horses near her base. Aachen will mark their fifth senior championship. A well-travelled season — from Sopot and Doha to the World Cup Final in Texas — has yielded a 68.79% grand prix average, below our estimated cusp for the special.

Quater Back Junior FRH, 17 ch g, Quaterback x Bonheur, Soc Hippique et d’Élevage SA & rider

Nicolas and Quater Back Junior FRH have contested the last seven championships over a more than decade-long career together. At last summer’s Europeans, they scraped into the special in 30th (68.88%), before climbing to 19th (70.56%) and then 18th in the freestyle (73.84%). Form remains consistent this season, but a deeper field makes a top-30 grand prix finish a tall order this time.

Kind Of Magic, 11 ch g, All At Once x Jazz, Joy Nouvelle Geerts

Two-time Olympian Yessin sold his Paris ride, All At Once, to Dutch under-25 rider Lara van Nek soon after the Games, before debuting Kind of Magic in November 2025. The gelding is still green at the level, but earned a wildcard to the 2026 World Cup Final, where the occasion got the better of him, scoring just over 64% in both the grand prix and freestyle.

Isabella, 17 bl m, Gribaldi x Blue Hors Don Schufro, Pamela Franco & Claudio Zapata Stclliffe

Mexico return to the World Championships after two decades away. Carolina has campaigned Isabella at the top level since 2023, but two of her best three grand prix scores have come this season: 66.24% at Herning, 68.5% at Tolbert, then a career-best 69.3% at Lier in May – a clear late-career upward curve for Isabella.

Waitoni, 15 ch g, Wynton x Weltmeyer, Vicente Lopez Abad & Barbara Margalef Fisher

Based near Mexico City, Marcos Santiago and Waitoni – bought as an Aachen prospect – have been unbeaten domestically this season, sealing qualification with 68.3% and 66.54% scores at home CDIs. A recent step onto the European circuit at Sint-Truiden yielded a freestyle win, though his grand prix mark there (64.96%) was some way off his home form.

Mauro Turfhorst NOP, 9 bl st, Glock’s Zonik x Negro, Reesink Stallions BV & Stoeterij Turfhorst BV

Traditional powerhouses, the Dutch haven’t reached a championship podium since the 2019 Europeans, and fifth looks to be their ceiling here. But with several exciting young horses, this is a team built for LA 2028. Mauro Turfhorst looks a superstar in the making, improving from 73.02% on his April grand prix debut to 75% at Rotterdam in June.

Zantana RS2 OLD NOP, 12 db m, Glock’s Zonik x Sir Donnerhall, Jacques Lemmens & Saskia Lemmens-Reijnen

The Dutch anchors have come on leaps and bounds since last summer’s Europeans, where they finished 21st in both the grand prix (70.26%) and special (70.4%). They arrive in Aachen having set successive grands prix personal bests, including a 77.96% win at Rotterdam CDI4* – beating Becky Moody and Jagerbomb – before taking the freestyle on 84.58%.

Don Quichot, 18 b g, United x Gribaldi, Nelly Wiegelaar & Kebie van der Heijden

Rowena has partnered Don Quichot from juniors to, now, her second senior championship team. They were 31st at last summer’s Europeans with 68.84%. This season’s grand prix scores have ranged from 64.76% to a personal-best 70.72%, with steady improvement each time out – although it still looks like they will be the Dutch discard score.

Hexagons Mr Magnum NOP, 9 b st, Expression x Valdez, Perry Boogaard & Stal Hexagon BV

Thamar had to pin her hopes on Mr Magnum after Europeans team horse Hexagons Luxuriouzz NOP was sidelined by injury earlier this season. He’s taken the promotion in his stride, posting two 71%-plus scores in his first – and only – international grands prix. NOP status, awarded to the Netherlands’ top prospects, soon followed – another rising star.

Total Hope OLD, 14 bl st, Totilas x Blue Hors Don Schufro, Oivind Bache, Lone Boegh-Henriksen & Paul Schockemöhle

Total Hope is bred in the purple, by Totilas out of European champion Weihegold OLD. His highlights are ninth in the grand prix at the Paris Olympics and becoming Norway’s first World Cup Final dressage medallist, finishing third in 2025. He seems to have peaked now, averaging just under 75% in the special, and close to 82% in the freestyle.

Don Vito MH, 13 ch g, Don Frederico x Anamour, rider & rider’s husband Jon Williamson

An environmental engineer from Waimauku, Wendi has had Don Vito MH since the now 13-year-old was a foal. With the exception of a brief spell in Europe after the 2017 World Cup Final in Omaha, Wendi has campaigned exclusively across New Zealand and Australia – this season winning at home with 69.8% at Taupo, then a more modest 66.37% in Sydney. Aachen will be a rare trip north for the pair.

Infinity Win T, 13 db g, Everdale x Jazz, rider & Uri First

Born in Israel and now based in Belgium, Roy switched nationality to Poland via his father’s family roots in 2025, having previously represented Israel internationally. His 2026 grand prix form has been steady if unspectacular – six starts averaging 65.17%, ranging from 63.78% up to 67.41% – as he continues settling into life under new coach Domien Michiels.

Guerlain, 15 bl m, Blue Hors Hotline x Painted Black, SLI BV

Hubert and Guerlain narrowly missed selection for last year’s Europeans, so make their championship debut here. Their 2026 grand prix form (65.87% average) sits a touch below last year’s, spread across a busy international calendar – Rotterdam, Fontainebleau, Lier and more – though he’s shown he can hold his own at some of the sport’s bigger venues.

Sambalito, 16 b g, Samba Hit II x Classic Dance, rider’s mother Patricia Poplawska-Slazak

Another championship debutante, Aleksandra sits on the management board of her family’s cosmetics business alongside her riding career. Her grand prix form has been consistent this season – four starts within two points of each other for a 66.2% average – though even a personal best would likely fall short of special qualification in Aachen.

Maxima Bella, 10 bl m, Millennium x Christ 3, Dominika Krasko Bialek, Piet Lenskens & rider

You might remember Maxima Bella as a breakout star in Paris, finishing 15th aged just eight. She hasn’t kicked on as expected since – a more mechanical style out of fashion with today’s judges, perhaps. Grand prix form has plateaued in the mid-70s, and she’s rarely tested in the special. The freestyle remains the real strength – third at April’s World Cup Final on 80.77%.

Hit Plus, 14 b g, Bretton Woods x Peralta Pinha, João Augusto da Conceição Caetano

Portugal’s most experienced campaigner heads a team three-quarters unchanged from last summer’s Europeans, where they were seventh as a team. Maria was 23rd individually in the special. This season’s grand prix average (71.92%) marks a real step up and the freestyle, a superb 78.15%, hints she and Portugal could push higher up the pack this time.

Marques Dos Cedros, 10 gr st, Disturbio x Rubi, Coudelaria Quinta Dos Cedros

The one change from last summer’s Europeans, but Vasco brings championship pedigree, having competed at the 2018 worlds. He looks to be an upgrade on his predecessor in the team’s fourth slot – his grand prix average (69.99%) comfortably outscoring Nuno Palma Santos’ Crozet mark – though a top-30 special finish remains no better than a coin flip.

Drosa Fuerst Kennedy OLD, 10 bl st, Fuersten-Look x Don Kennedy, rider & Roberto Pedrosa Haras do Drosa

João and Drosa Fuerst Kennedy were forced to withdraw last-minute from the Paris Olympics, but recovered to top Portugal’s grand prix and special scores as the Europeans. They won the grand prix at Aachen CDI3* this spring (71.41%), but their grand prix form has since settled just below the projected qualifying mark for the special, averaging 69.95%.

Lirio MVL, 11 gr st, Zeus Do Lis x El-Negro, Sociedade Agricola Santana do Campo, Muralha Dos Sonhos Unipessoal LDA & Westaquaty LDA

Once trained by Carl Hester, João rides Lirio MVL, the second Lusitano on the team alongside Marques Dos Cedros, but the 11-year-old stallion is still finding his feet at the level. His form (69.46% grand prix average) is the weakest of Portugal’s promising four, who on current form look around four to six points shy of the top-six cut-off for automatic Olympic team qualification.

Blue Hors Zatchmo, 17 b st, Blue Hors Zack x Donnerhall, rider’s parents Melanie & Tony Chew

Singapore’s dressage flagbearer heads to Aachen with her mainstay Zatchmo, five years on from becoming the first Singaporean rider to compete at the Olympics – Tokyo in 2021. She was 56th in the grand prix (63.35%) at the Paris Olympics and form has cooled since her strongest season in 2024, currently averaging 65.8% in the grand prix.

Santa Maria, 11 bl m, Sandro Marinero x unlisted, Isabelle Ros

Switzerland head to Aachen with three of their four Crozet combinations unchanged, aiming to improve on last year’s 11th-place finish. Delia’s form has settled into a reliable pattern – a 67.78% grand prix average this season, near-identical to her level heading into last year’s European Championships, where she finished in 45th place on 66.35%.

Dettori, 13 bl st, Desperado x De Niro, Salvitiano BV & Sportpferde Lenherr GmbH

Dettori endured an off-day at last summer’s Europeans, managing just 63.88% in the grand prix as the canter work – flying changes, zig-zags and transitions – fell apart. Heading into Aachen, his grand prix form has nudged up to a 69.4% average, with a place in the special a genuine possibility if the changes hold under pressure this time around.

Bonheur De La Vie, 14 db g, Bordeaux x Blue Hors Zack, rider & rider’s father James Rogerson

Switzerland’s top scorer in the grand prix at Crozet last year (68.68%), Charlotta and this horse have kicked on significantly since – a 71.98% grand prix average this season, clear of our estimated cusp for special qualification. Reaching the freestyle looks a tougher ask, although two plus-80% scores earlier this season hint at real quality if they get the chance.

Quaterboy, 16 db g, Quaterback x Rubinstein Noir, Inèz Syz

The most experienced of Switzerland’s quartet, Estelle has represented her country at five championships since 2018. However, she missed the 2022 worlds to help run her family’s stables during her father’s health issues, saying: “Our time to shine will come.” Quaterboy has been her long-time ride, with the pair averaging 66.73% in the grand prix this season.

Touchdown, 14 b g, Quaterback x Sack, Sommarkvarn AB

Patrik headlines a Swedish team built around a clear goal: a top-six finish and LA 2028 Olympic qualification. His form mirrors last year’s almost exactly – 73.16% average in the grand prix, with the freestyle remaining a huge strength (sixth at the Europeans, 81.14%). The special is the pinch point: just three places clear of the cut-off at Crozet, leaving little margin for error.

Johnnie Walker BCN, 12 b g, Glock’s Johnson x Dayano, Helene Frisk Dressage AB

Team newcomer Rebecca will make her championship debut at Aachen. Team captain Stefan Jansson called the fight for the final spot a close one between her, Caroline Darcourt and Cecilia Bergåkra, but picked Rebecca for her “consistent and high results”. Her grand prix average has jumped over three points this season, to 69.56%.

Invoice, 14 bl g, Jazz x Olympic Ferro, Alexanders Hovslageri & Häst AB

Patrik gets the headlines, but at last summer’s Europeans, it was Maria who out-scored him in both the grand prix and special – he only nudged ahead in the freestyle, and only just. This season’s form (73.46% grand prix average) is a little up on last season’s and Sweden’s top-six push will lean on her as much as him.

Navarro, 10 bl st, Negro x San Remo OLD, Dressur퍼feder-Leistungszentrum Lodbergen GmbH

There was a Swedish team stalwart on former ride Dante Weltino. New ride Navarro fills the void and early signs are promising – a grand prix average near 72% this season, the special a touch higher. Whether that’s enough to reach the freestyle is a genuine toss-up, so a kür might be worth having up their sleeve – she hasn’t debuted one on Navarro yet.

Definitely, 14 bl g, De Kooning x San Schufro, rider’s parents Dul & Subhanandh Thongpakdi

History in the making: Pakjira helps anchor Thailand’s first-ever team at a World Championships, on a horse she bought unbacked as a three-year-old back in 2015. Based in Bilbao, Spain, she didn’t make her international grand prix debut on Definitely until April 2026, yet banked both required MER scores inside 10 weeks, right up against the deadline.

Wall Street JV, 19 ch g, Wie Weltmeyer x Starway, Suphakamol & Suphakit Vuntanadit

The first of a sister double for the team. “Patty” was the first Thai rider to secure her qualifying scores – she and Wall Street JV have spent four years building towards this moment. Form has cooled since qualifying (sub-65% all season), but Wall Street has competed at big venues before with former rider Juliette Ramel and shouldn’t be fazed.

Dreamboat BCN, 18 b g, Glock’s Voice x Metall, rider & Chuenhathai Vuntanadit

Thailand’s original grand prix pioneer, “Pam” blazed the trail her sister and Pakjira have since followed. With only three riders, Thailand has no discard score – every result counts. Pam’s grand prix average (63.93%) trails Pakjira’s this season (66.4%). All three will likely finish towards the bottom of the standings, but simply being here is the real achievement.

Hexagon’s Double Dutch, 18 ch st, Johnson x Hexagon’s Rubiquil, Ilay, Ishak & Tuna Ibrahimzadeh & rider

Turkey’s only grand prix rider makes her worlds debut, three years after reaching grand prix level – and just one year after breaking new ground at the Europeans, where she finished 50th (65.11%). Her partner is self-declared “heart horse” and schoolmaster Double Dutch, nicknamed Bubbles, and their grand prix form stays steady in the mid-60s.

Hawtins San Floriana, 14 b m, San Amour I x Florestan I, rider & Diane Fellows

With two years to go until the LA Olympics, America’s scattergun approach of buying big-name horses from Europe hasn’t delivered a top team – none of the highest-profile purchases have made it to Aachen. The closest exception is Ashley on Charlotte Dujardin’s former ride Hawtins San Floriana, who has been consistent, with a grand prix average above 68%.

Gold Play, 11 b g, Grey Flanell x Sir Donnerhall II, rider & Nancy Hutson

A refreshing contrast to America’s big-name European imports, Jordan has brought Gold Play up himself since the horse was four years old. A personal-best win in the special at Wellington CDI3* in March (71%) capped a breakthrough season, but grand prix form (68.35% average) sits some way below the predicted mark needed to reach the special in Aachen.

Fleau De Baian, 16 ch st, Jazz x Ulft, Zen Elite Equestrian Center

America’s rising star arrives without his top horse: Indian Rock. The World Cup Final runner-up has been rested rather than risked. Fleau De Baian – formerly Adeline Cornelissen’s – steps up, averaging a solid 69.12%. With a team elimination in Paris, the USA looked to have a chance to build momentum with Indian Rock. Now that’s gone too.

Gino, 15 db g, Bretton Woods x Haarlem, rider’s mother Michele Vaughn

The strongest of America’s four on season form – a 70.94% grand prix average – though she was the lowest-placed of the three team members competing at Hagen’s Nations Cup last time out, as the USA finished third. Viewers may remember them from the 2025 World Cup Final, where Genay recovered from a fraught grand prix to finish eventual 14th.