The CHIO Aachen 2026 already has its entry list defined for the CSI5*, and the level lives up to what the German event represents: the elite of international show jumping will gather, once again, on these arenas that have given so much to the sport. From 22 to 24 May, the Allianz Park will bring together 60 riders and 167 horses from 18 countries, with practically all the big names on the international circuit present in Soers.
This year's edition will feature a striking fact: the top 25 riders in the FEI world ranking will be present (with the exception of Gregory Wathelet). Such a gathering of the best riders is rarely seen, even at shows of this category.
Among the most prominent names is Scott Brash, who will attend with Hello Folie, Hello Jefferson and Hello Mango. The Briton will return to Aachen as the only rider to have completed the Rolex Grand Slam, while another of the major focuses will be on Richard Vogel, current European champion and one of the leading figures on the international circuit, entered with Cardentos, Phenyo van het Keysersbos, United Touch S and the young Baxxter 4.
The German contingent, as is customary, is particularly strong. Christian Kukuk, the Olympic champion, will be present with Checker 47, Fantasia de Wy, and Elvita Z in YH. Daniel Deusser, Marcus Ehning, Hans-Dieter Dreher, Sophie Hinners, and Maximilian Weishaupt complete the home team.
France isn't far behind either. Simon Delestre will arrive with Golden Boy DK and I Amelusina R 51, while Julien Epaillard will compete with Fringan de Vesquerie and Le Coultre de Muze. The presence of Kevin Staut is also notable.
The United States will similarly present a star-studded line-up. Kent Farrington, current number one in the FEI ranking, will attend with Descartes SR and Greya, accompanied by Laura Kraut and McLain Ward. They are joined by names such as Karl Cook and Lillie Keenan, among others.
Switzerland will once again feature two of its major reference points: Martin Fuchs, winner of the last edition, and Steve Guerdat, both with highly competitive horses. The Swede Henrik von Eckermann will also not miss the event, alongside Glamour Girl and Qasirah van de Reistenhoe and Catniss Four C in YH.
Among the registered horses, names of enormous weight in the current sport stand out, such as Ermitage Kalone, DSP Chakaria, United Touch S, Leone Jei, Grandorado TN N.O.P., Rolex Ter Leydonck or Checker 47, in addition to an interesting presence of young horses that will compete in the YH classes.
Aachen will also have a special flavour due to the compact format of this edition, concentrated into just three days while keeping the sporting challenge completely intact. The ultimate goal will be, once again, Sunday's Rolex Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar and one of the most coveted titles for any showjumper.
The action will kick off strongly from Friday, as the initial practice sessions will serve as direct qualifiers for the Grand Prix. There will be no margin for error from day one.
As well as the CSI5*, Aachen will also host the traditional Jump & Drive of the MERKUR CASINO Cup, featuring top Driving figures such as Boyd Exell, Bram Chardon and Dries Degrieck.
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