British showjumper Scott Brash has reclaimed the world number one position in the latest Longines Rankings, marking the third time in his career. He edges out American rider Kent Farrington with 3,459 points to Farrington's 3,415. Fellow Briton Ben Maher rises to third place.
The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) released the updated Longines Rankings on February 4, 2026, confirming Scott Brash's ascent to the top spot. The 40-year-old double Olympic gold medallist had been in second place behind Kent Farrington in recent months but surged ahead thanks to a series of grand prix victories in January.
Brash's recent form includes five grand prix successes in as many weeks, culminating in a win in Doha, Qatar, on January 31. He achieved two grands prix victories in a single day on multiple occasions during this run. In December, he topped the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final with Hello Chadora Lady and secured a hat-trick of five-star grands prix with horses including Hello Jefferson, Hello Mango, Hello Folie, and Hello Chadora Lady—all owned by supporters Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham.
"I’m incredibly proud to be world number one again," Brash said. "More than anything, it’s a reflection of the extraordinary team around me – the people who work tirelessly every single day, caring for our horses with such love and dedication."
He emphasized the long-term nature of his success: "For me, reaching number one is never about just a few recent results. It’s something that is built quietly and patiently over many years. With horses, success comes from the time you invest in them, the trust you develop, and knowing it’s a long-term journey."
Brash previously held the top ranking on two occasions between 2013 and 2015. The full top 10 features tight competition: Gilles Thomas (Belgium) in fourth with 3,014 points, Christian Kukuk (Germany) fifth with 3,011, Richard Vogel (Germany) sixth with 2,947, Julien Epaillard (France) seventh with 2,831, Nina Mallevaey (France) eighth with 2,818—the youngest woman in the top 10 in at least two decades at age 25—Daniel Coyle (Ireland) ninth with 2,787, and McLain Ward (USA) tenth with 2,759.
Brash credited his horses and owners, stating, "This is also a moment to say thank you to my owners, who have supported me for so many years with trust and belief." He added that his focus remains on keeping the horses fit and happy.