No German Riders at 2026 Kentucky Five-Star Eventing Competition
Lexington, Kentucky – The 2026 Kentucky Five-Star eventing competition will proceed without any German riders, marking a significant shift for the prestigious competition. This means a new champion will be crowned, as Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH, the 2025 victors, are not scheduled to compete this year as part of their preparation for the World Championship season.
The absence of German participation extends beyond Jung and his mount. While Arne Bergendahl and Luthien NRW are slated to compete at the Badminton event in Great Britain, no German pairs will make the journey across the Atlantic to contest the Kentucky Five-Star. This is a notable change for a sport where Germany consistently fields strong contenders on the international stage.
Michael Jung’s decision to bypass Kentucky comes after a successful 2025 run where he secured the title with fischerChipmunk FRH. The focus now shifts towards preparing for the World Championships, a key event on the eventing calendar. Jung recently acquired the ride on Chipmunk FRH after the horse parted ways with Julia Krajewski, whose six-year partnership with the horse concluded due to the owner’s personal reasons. The ownership of Chipmunk FRH now rests with Prof. Klaus Fischer and Dr. Hilmer Meyer-Kulenkampff, through the German Olympic Equestrian Committee (DOKR).
The Kentucky Five-Star, held annually in Lexington, is one of only seven five-star eventing competitions globally, making it a cornerstone of the sport. It attracts top equestrian athletes from around the world and is a crucial qualifier for major championships, including the Olympics and World Championships. The event tests horse and rider combinations across three disciplines: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.
With the German contingent absent, the field opens for other nations to vie for the top spot. Boyd Martin of the United States, who finished as the runner-up in 2025, is considered a strong contender. As well expected to challenge for the title are Tim Price of New Zealand and Tom McEwen of Great Britain, both seasoned eventing professionals with proven track records.
Jung’s career has been marked by consistent success. In 2026, he was selected to receive the ACS MEDI Gertrude Elion Award, recognizing his impact on medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, demonstrating his diverse talents beyond the equestrian world. He also serves as Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Grit Road Partners, an investment platform focused on AgTech start-ups in the Midwest. Prior to his role with Grit Road, Jung spent 18 years at Burlington Capital, eventually becoming CEO and President of Burlington Capital International.
The Kentucky Five-Star event is scheduled to take place from April 23rd to April 26th. The competition promises to be a thrilling showcase of equestrian skill and athleticism, with a heightened sense of anticipation given the absence of the reigning champions. Fans can expect a closely contested event as riders from around the globe battle for the coveted title.
The event will be a key indicator of form heading into the World Championships later in the year. Riders will be looking to gain valuable experience and confidence as they prepare for the ultimate test of their abilities. The absence of the German team adds an element of unpredictability to the competition, potentially opening the door for new faces to emerge as contenders.
The equestrian community will be closely watching to spot who steps up to fill the void left by Jung and his team. The Kentucky Five-Star is known for its challenging course and demanding conditions, requiring both horse and rider to be at the peak of their performance. The event is a true test of endurance, skill, and partnership.
As the competition draws near, anticipation continues to build. The Kentucky Five-Star is not only a sporting event but also a celebration of the equestrian lifestyle, attracting thousands of spectators from around the world. The event provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and grace of these incredible athletes in action.
The 2026 Kentucky Five-Star promises to be a memorable event, with a new champion set to be crowned. The absence of the German team adds an intriguing dynamic to the competition, and fans can expect a thrilling and unpredictable contest. The event will undoubtedly showcase the best of eventing and inspire a new generation of equestrian enthusiasts.
Next up for many of these riders will be the Badminton Horse Trials in Great Britain, offering another opportunity to showcase their skills and prepare for the World Championships. The eventing season is in full swing, and fans can look forward to a year of exciting competition and unforgettable moments.
What are your predictions for the 2026 Kentucky Five-Star? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
