The cross-country course for the World Championships at Aachen is set to challenge riders on 15 August. Course designer Giuseppe della Chiesa outlined key features including 42 jumping efforts and an optimum time of around 10 minutes.
Riders will face 74 fences with multiple route options when the Championships begin in 50 days. Della Chiesa noted the track balances difficulty for top competitors while providing alternatives for others to finish safely.
The four-star level course spans a special distance of 10 minutes. Direct routes will demand a four-star plus effort while safer paths equate to three-and-a-half stars.
Della Chiesa worked with a team including assistant Marcin Konarski and technical delegate Philip Surl. He emphasized watching live action to ensure horses jump well and the course tests skill without excessive risk.
The flat Aachen site required new ground preparation compared to the 2022 event at Pratoni del Vivaro. Organizers aim to leave infrastructure for varied future tracks.