The Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show 2026 kicked off on Friday at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, marking its second year with a three-day lineup of elite show jumping and youth competitions. Leading riders highlighted the event's role in elevating local equestrian talent, while young participants like Carrie Wang delivered strong performances. The spectacle also featured lifestyle elements to engage a broad audience.
Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show 2026 Begins
The Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show opened on January 30, 2026, at AsiaWorld-Expo, launching a three-day event that combines world-class show jumping, youth competitions, and lifestyle entertainment. This second-year edition draws dignitaries and crowds, celebrating the Year of the Horse with elite athletes and promising young riders.
German rider Richard Vogel, competing in Hong Kong for the second time, praised the event's impact on local show jumping. Speaking on the sidelines, he described it as the 'perfect way and the perfect road' to develop the sport in the city. Vogel noted Hong Kong's strong foundation in horse racing could extend to show jumping, allowing local athletes to 'compete against the best in the world and that just always makes your own athletes grow, as top athletes lead.' He also highlighted improvements in facilities, from stables to footing and jump materials.
In the opening Longines Welcome Stakes, a five-star show jumping competition, Hans-Dieter Dreher set a strong pace. Meanwhile, in the Hong Kong Jockey Club Asian Youth Challenge Competition's first round, 15-year-old Hong Kong rider Carrie Wang Ka-lee placed third aboard Little Lady Van’t Eigenlo. Wang expressed excitement post-performance: 'I’m very excited and I have been looking forward to this competition. She [Little Lady] performed really well, she was really excited in the ring and we look forward to tomorrow.'
Beyond the arena, attendees enjoyed classic cars, a shopping village, and gourmet treats, broadening the appeal of the glitzy affair.