The only five-star event of 2020 will go ahead next month, with spectators, the relevant local authority has confirmed.
Pau announced today (25 September) that the CCI5*, and the singles World Cup driving, would run as planned from 21 to 25 October.
Proposals for “managing the influx of visitors” have been approved by the Prefecture des Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
Spectators will be allowed on to the site, with a maximum of 5,000 in the event arenas and the shopping village at any time. On the Friday, for the carriage-driving marathon, and the cross-country on Saturday, spectators who are not in either of the above areas may walk alongside the 6.5km cross-country course. Visitors must wear face coverings at all times, everywhere on the site.
“So, masks at the ready then, to come and support this year’s event and, by doing so, the different equestrian and eventing disciplines that have borne the brunt of the crisis this year,” a spokesman for the event said.
Event president Pascal Sayous added: “A big thank you to our institutional partners and our exhibitors, who have faith in us and have stepped up once again to support the event this year.
Continues below…
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
“A special mention goes to all the volunteers from Pau Events – both the youngsters and those who have seen many an edition go by – who are still there to pitch in and help.
“Together, we are going to make this event a wonderful celebration to showcase the 30th edition.”
All health regulations will be published on the event’s mobile app.
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.
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
Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
