The Maryland 5 Star, a premier five-star eventing competition in the United States, has been cancelled for 2026 due to financial issues faced by its organizers. US Equestrian confirmed the decision, noting efforts to secure a new licensee for a lower-level event at the same venue. The pause aims to allow for better preparation for a potential return in 2027.
The Maryland 5 Star, held annually at the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in Maryland since 2021, will not proceed with its five-star (CCI5*-L) competition in 2026. The Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland, the current licensee, cited apparent financial concerns as the reason for stepping away from hosting both the CCI5*-L and a related CCI3*-L event.
US Equestrian issued a statement on March 10, 2026, saying: “US Equestrian has been in regular communication with the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) to support their ongoing discussions surrounding the future viability of the Maryland 5 Star.” The organization added that it is working with a new potential licensee for the CCI3*-L in 2026 and will provide updates on the CCI5*-L as soon as possible. The event was originally scheduled for October 15-18, 2026.
The Fair Hill Foundation, in a press release on March 11, described the pause as a deliberate step for evolution, stating: “This pause reflects confidence – not uncertainty. It is a proactive step grounded in responsible stewardship and a shared belief that the Maryland 5 Star deserves the time, leadership, and operational depth required to thrive for decades to come.” They confirmed plans for the CCI3*-L to occur in October 2026, supported by an experienced organizing team, with the five-star level expected to return in 2027.
Rumors about the event's future had circulated for months, following the departure of event CEO Jeff Newman and the elimination of state funding in the previous year. The competition has faced low entries, with 22 competitors in 2025, down from 46 in its 2021 debut. Winners across its five editions include Boyd Martin and On Cue (2021, USA), Tim Price and Coup De Coeur Dudevin (2022, New Zealand), Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue (2023, Ireland), Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class (2024, Britain), and Felix Vogg and Cartania (2025, Switzerland). In 2025, British rider Alex Bragg retired during the cross-country phase with Quindiva, while Australian pair Sophia Hill and Humble Glory placed sixth.
Broader discussions in the eventing community have questioned whether there are too many five-star events globally to sustain high-level participation.
