Eventer Sam Watson has suggested creating a new five-star pathway to address declining starter numbers at major events Mars Badminton and Defender Burghley.
Badminton recorded 61 starters in 2026, its lowest total in more than 20 years. Burghley had 52 starters in 2025, matching its lowest figure in at least two decades. Watson noted a 36.9 percent drop in long-format feeder events between 2014/2015 and 2024/2025, while short-format events fell by only 2.9 percent.
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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 Mars Badminton Horse Trials has received 80 entries for its event scheduled for 6-10 May, marking no waiting list for the first time since 2023. This follows the cancellation of Mars Maryland 5 Star and comes amid discussions on the five-star level of eventing. H&H eventing editor Pippa Roome assesses whether the lower numbers signal concern.
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Double Badminton winner and retired eventing star William Fox-Pitt has walked the cross-country course for the 2026 Mars Badminton Horse Trials, sharing insights on its key fences in the Horse & Hound magazine issue dated 30 April 2026. The event is scheduled for 6-10 May 2026.
The Mars Badminton Horse Trials has released its dressage schedule for the 2026 event. Top competitors will begin their campaigns on Thursday and Friday.
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The 2026 British open championship will feature a significant format change and a fivefold increase in first prize after organisers listened to rider feedback. The event returns to Hartpury University and Hartpury College from 11 to 16 August.
Dassett Eventing has introduced four new leagues for young event horses, each offering a £1,500 prize pot. The initiative targets five- to eight-year-old horses competing in British Eventing fixtures this season. Prizes will go to the top three finishers in each age group.
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Two horses faced scrutiny during the opening trot-up for the Mars Badminton Horse Trials on May 6 but both passed inspection after re-presentation. All 61 entries advanced to dressage as a result. The event marks the start of the five-star competition in Gloucestershire.