Rider killed in rotational fall at Luhmühlen
The eventing world is in a state of shock following the death of Germany’s Benjamin Winter at Luhmühlen Horse Trials earlier today.
Benjamin was on his 2nd ride in the CCI4*, Ispo, (pictured above competing at Houghton International in 2013) when they suffered a rotational fall at fence number 20, a table. The 10-year-old gelding was not injured.
The German rider had already completed the course clear inside the time on his first ride, Wild Thing Z.
The event released the following statement: “It is with the deepest regret and sadness that we announce that Benjamin Winter (GER) suffered a fatal accident while competing at the CCI4* in Luhmühlen.
“On behalf of the whole sport, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Benjamin’s family.
“At every FEI event, the maximum consideration is given to the safety and welfare of horses and competitors. The causes of this accident will be further investigated by all parties.”
Earlier in the day Tom Crisp’s ride, Liberal, collapsed and died after fence 7. It is thought he suffered an aortic rupture. Tom was not hurt in the fall and described the horse as “a great friend”.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
In a devastating day for the sport, competition at Nunney International Horse Trials in Somerset was cancelled following an incident on the cross-country. More to follow.
Full report on the cross-country action from Luhmühlen to come.
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.