Isabell Werth, the most successful rider of all time, could hardly express in words how eagerly she is awaiting the return of dressage competitions to the legendary Main Stadium. She had been “overjoyed” – thrilled beyond measure – when she had heard the FEI World Championships were to be held in Aachen again. “And a bit emotional, too,” the nine-time Dressage World Champion admitted. Memories of the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games, when she legendarily claimed the title with her second horse, Satchmo, remain vividly etched in her mind. “The atmosphere in the Dressage was unique. Coming back home for the World Championships now is simply fantastic,” Isabell Werth enthused at the State Chancellery in Düsseldorf.

She has been competing regularly in Aachen for 30 years, whether at the CHIO Aachen or at World or European Championships. “Every year, I find new motivation to deliver my best performance here,” she said, before taking a look into the crystal ball: “There are an extraordinary number of strong nations competing in the Dressage this year. Right now, it is the Brits, who are tipping the scales, but of course, we intend to give them a good run for their money.” Success, she noted, would depend above all on the form of the day and on how the riders handle the unique atmosphere created by the tens of thousands of spectators. “We have a unique opportunity to showcase our sport globally and demonstrate what we stand for: the extraordinary bond with our horses,” commented Isabell Werth.

Regine Mispelkamp also beamed at the prospect of presenting Dara Dressage against such a spectacular backdrop. The 2024 Paralympics silver medallist is particularly looking forward to large crowds at the para competitions, which are included in the price of every ticket. “It allows us to give as many people as possible a glimpse into what defines para sport: Great harmony, deep emotion and people radiating immense joy when they have the opportunity to perform on this amazing stage with their horses.” She added that it sends a powerful message that equestrian sport truly embraces inclusion, noting: “We hope this might encourage other sports to follow suit.”

The Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein (ALRV) also aims to set new standards in horse welfare. ALRV Board Member, Birgit Rosenberg, summed it up as follows: “The horses are our VIPs; that starts the moment they arrive. Everything in the stable area must be meticulously prepared to ensure first-class conditions for both the horses and riders. The same applies to the footing and arenas, the obstacle equipment and much more,” she said, offering a brief insight into the organisational measures involved.

Unique Opening Ceremony and Royal Visit from Monaco

Before the first medals are conferred, however, a further highlight beyond the sporting competitions is on the agenda: the spectacular Opening Ceremony. According to Rosenberg, many athletes from the disciplines taking place in the second week have already signed up to attend. It is hardly surprising, given the promise of “entertainment featuring horses at the heart of the show.”

One of the participants not scheduled to compete until the second week is the reigning World Show Jumping Champion, Henrik von Eckermann. He can hardly wait to soak up the incredible atmosphere, starting with the Opening Ceremony. “The sweet anticipation is immense; the athletes’ entry alone promises to be mega cool and special.” The plan is for them to march in via the spectator stands, bringing them closer to the audience than ever before.

The representatives of several royal families – including the Netherlands, Denmark, Great Britain and Spain – will also be attending that evening. A high-ranking royal guest will make an appearance during the second week as well: His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco. “The wonderful thing about major sporting events is the coming together of different nations, as well as the chance for fascinating people and personalities to meet,” noted Michael Mronz. The Prince is making the trip to Aachen to support the two Monegasque riders competing in the Championships. “His visit underscores the immense significance of these FEI World Championships and highlights the special social connections that sport consistently fosters,” emphasised the Managing Director of Aachener Reitturnier GmbH.

Impact beyond the Soers

However, the FEI World Championships will generate excitement well beyond the sporting and social highlights taking place at the Soers. Complementary art exhibitions and the “Aachen WM Special” – featuring a free programme spread across two stages, including public viewings, a World Championships talk show and concerts – are just two examples of how the event will be linked to Aachen’s city centre. “The anticipation and curiosity are already palpable, and in a few day, we will transform both into the ‘Equestrian Summer Fairytale of 2026’,” said Aachen’s Lord Mayor, Dr. Michael Ziemons.

Hendrik Wüst, the State Premier of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), also underlined the event’s significance for NRW as a hub of sport and for Germany as a whole, and expressed his excitement about attending the event in just over two weeks: “I am certain that we can all look forward to top-class sporting performances and fair competition, as well as shared emotional moments at the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026. I have already firmly scheduled my visit to the Allianz Park in my diary.”

If you, too, would like to experience the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 live, secure your tickets today from the online shop, via the ticket hotline on +49-(0)241-9171111 or from the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein offices.