The 2026 MARS Badminton Horse Trials, set to seize place from May 6th to 10th, promises a thrilling competition with a star-studded entry list featuring Olympic medalists, World and European Champions, and fifteen of the world’s top 20 ranked riders. Competitors will vie for the world’s richest eventing prize of £125,000 (approximately $157,000 USD, based on current exchange rates).
Leading the charge is Great Britain’s Ros Canter, currently ranked fifth in the world, and the exceptional Lordships Graffalo. The pair already hold a unique place in eventing history, being the only combination to have won both Badminton and Burghley twice. A third victory at Badminton would cement their legacy as all-time greats in the sport. Canter’s success is a testament to both rider skill and the horse’s remarkable athleticism.
Oliver Townend, who finished as runner-up in 2025, will return with Cooley Rosalent, aiming to improve upon last year’s performance. The Irish duo of Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue, who completed the podium in 2025, similarly pose a significant threat. Harry Meade, currently world number one, has entered five horses, presenting him with a strong opportunity to secure his first five-star win. The depth of talent in the field is immediately apparent.
Boyd Martin, the world number two, representing the United States, returns to Badminton with Miks Master C, determined to finally achieve success at this prestigious event. Latest Zealand will be well-represented by Tim Price, ranked fourth globally, and his wife, Jonelle Price, the 2018 Badminton winner riding Chilli’s Midnight Star. Both riders bring a wealth of experience and a competitive spirit to the field.
Laura Collett, the 2022 winner and a dual Olympic gold medalist, is ranked third in the world and will compete with Bling, a rising star in the eventing world. The British contingent also includes Emily King and Valmy Biats, Bubby Upton with Cola, Gemma Stevens with Chilli Knight and Chilli King (sons of the 2015 winner Chilli Morning), and David Doel, who has entered three horses: Galileo Nieuwmoed, Midnight Rollercoaster, and Ferro Point. The strength of British eventing is clearly on display.
The international field extends beyond these prominent names. Switzerland’s Felix Vogg, the 2025 CCI 5*-L winner at Elkton, USA, with Cartania, will develop his presence felt. Nadja Minder will debut her 19-year-old gelding, Toblerone, at Badminton, marking a special occasion for the experienced pair.
France will be represented by four riders: Benjamin Massié and Filao de Perle, fresh off a win at the opening stage of the Grand National in Saumur; Luc Château and Viens du Mont, seasoned Badminton competitors; Arthur Marx and Church’Île; and Gaspard Maksud, riding Zaragoza. The participation of these French riders adds to the diverse and competitive nature of the event.
Twelve nations will be represented at Badminton: Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Lithuania, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United States of America. This global representation underscores Badminton’s status as a premier international eventing competition.
The Badminton Horse Trials is more than just a competition; it’s a test of endurance, skill, and partnership between horse and rider. The challenging cross-country course, demanding dressage tests, and precise show jumping rounds require exceptional athleticism and strategic thinking. For many riders, winning at Badminton is a career-defining achievement.
The event’s rich history and electric atmosphere contribute to its unique appeal. Badminton House, the historic estate that hosts the trials, provides a stunning backdrop for the competition. The grounds are expected to be packed with spectators eager to witness the world’s best eventing athletes in action.
With such a strong field assembled, predicting a winner is a difficult task. However, Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, with their proven track record, are undoubtedly the favorites. The competition will be fierce, and any of the top-ranked riders could emerge victorious.
The 2026 Badminton Horse Trials promises to be a spectacular event, showcasing the very best of the sport. Fans can follow the action live on the official Badminton Horse Trials website and social media channels. The dressage phase will commence on May 6th, followed by the cross-country on May 7th and the show jumping on May 10th.
The full list of entries can be found at https://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/entries/2026/.
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the 2026 Badminton Horse Trials, including previews, recaps, and analysis. What are your predictions for the event? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
