Modern stables with historic flair

One of the most important infrastructure projects at the show grounds will be completed in time for the start of the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026: A new, modern stable complex featuring 204 spacious stalls has been built to replace stable buildings 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The facility meets the highest standards set by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). An advanced ventilation system guarantees an optimal stable climate, with a clear focus on animal welfare, functionality and accessibility. In terms of design, the new building resembles the historic stables from the 1930s and 40s, preserving the site’s characteristic charm, which has played a key role in the special atmosphere and high standards of the Aachen Soers for decades. The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Home Affairs, on the basis of a resolution passed by the German Bundestag.

“The FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 place the highest demands in accommodation for the horses, which is why building new stables was a necessary step for us,” explained ALRV Board Member, Birgit Rosenberg. “We are thus expanding on our proven standards and creating additional opportunities to satisfy the horses’ needs as much as possible. The well-being of the horses has always been our top priority and these new stables demonstrate once again our commitment to quality and genuine animal welfare.” Isabell Werth, the most successful dressage rider of all time, also emphasised the importance of an optimal stable environment: “It is hugely important for the horses to have a sheltered retreat where they can recover and really find peace. The temperature, ceiling height, stall size, air circulation – everything is truly Champions League quality here, promoting the horses’ well-being.”

Focus on accessibility – also for the Para-Dressage

A special focus is also being placed on accessibility: The new stable building features a modern guidance system, as well as accessible restrooms, showers and designated areas for storing electronic assistive devices. This ensures that all riders – regardless of their individual needs –can move around the stable area safely and comfortably. Para-Dressage is one of the six disciplines at the World Championships, alongside Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, and Vaulting. Hence, particularly the athletes taking part in the para discipline benefit from these improved conditions.

HAVENS Pferdefutter takes best care of the horses’ nutritional needs

Year after year, optimal conditions for the horses are created at the Allianz Park. Starting with the meticulous preparation of the footing – whether grass or sand – which is maintained year-round by an experienced team with great dedication and attention to detail, through to first-class veterinary care and the stabling and general care of the horses on the grounds. Nutrition is a key element of the latter and this is where the partnership between the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 and HAVENS Pferdefutter comes into play. Founded in the Netherlands in 1845, the family company is the official feed supplier for the World Championships and will ensure that all horses stabled at the Allianz Park receive nutrition tailored to suit their specific needs. A total of around 1,750 sacks of specialised feed are available – customised to meet the horses’ varying requirements and individual teams’ preferences.

HAVENS‘ CEO Joris Kaanen also emphasised the importance of individualised nutrition in top-level sport: “In international competition, the smallest details often determine success – and  nutrition is one of them. Our job is to provide the right feed mix for every horse so that it feels comfortable, stays healthy and can perform at its peak. It is a special honour for us to contribute to the health and well-being of the horses at an event like the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026.”

Grooms as a key factor in the well-being of the horses

The grooms are largely responsible for making sure that the horses are always well-cared-for and receive optimal attention. They are the heart and soul behind every rider’s success. Often acting as animal psychologists, logistics experts, stable managers, trusted confidants and right-hand assistants all in one, they work on the front lines without ever stepping into the spotlight. Few people know their names, yet the equestrian world could not function without them. Grooms provide vital support to competition horses in their daily routines and during the events themselves. They are the first to arrive at the stables and the last to leave, always ready to anticipate their four-legged charges’ every need.

They can look forward to excellent conditions at the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026, too. In the new stable complex, short distances and a dedicated, spacious area – featuring dining and relaxation facilities exclusively for the grooms – will help ease the strain of the demanding competition schedule. “For us at the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein, top-level sport and animal welfare have always gone hand in hand. The grooms play a crucial role in this. That is why making their stay in Aachen as pleasant as possible is a matter close to our hearts,” explained Birgit Rosenberg. HAVENS is providing support here as well in its capacity as a World Championships partner: 800 thoughtfully assembled goodie bags will be distributed to the grooms upon their arrival at the Allianz Park – a token of appreciation for their tireless efforts behind the scenes.