The equestrian scene is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting start to 2025, particularly with key events scheduled in Germany and Switzerland. The spotlight will be on the CHI Basel, which takes place from January 8 to 12, where equestrians from around the globe will gather for various competitions, including dressage and jumping tournaments.
"We have a big year ahead of us," commented Thomas Straumann, the Administrative Council President of CHI Basel, reflecting the excitement and anticipation leading up to the event. For the first time, Basel will also host the World Cup Finals of dressage and jumping, marking it as a significant event noteworthy for both participants and spectators.
The city has quickly climbed the ranks as one of the elite venues for equestrian sports, having hosted World Cup jumping since 2019. The upcoming competitions will include three dressage and seven jumping events, plus amateur-level competitions, with different levels of difficulty and prize money, ensuring broad participation.
Highlighting the season's importance, Straumann's enthusiasm is echoed by Andy Kistler, the CHI Basel OK President, who noted, "Because the World Cup final takes place here, even more top riders are joining us this year." Six top-ten ranked riders will be participating, showcasing the high-level competition expected at the event.
This year's CHI Basel will feature celebrated athletes including Steve Guerdat, the 2012 Olympic champion, and Martin Fuchs, both of whom have previously triumphed at this prestigious venue. Other noteworthy participants are Ben Maher and Scott Brash from Great Britain, who are current team Olympic champions, alongside various strong contenders from France, adding to the event's international allure.
Meanwhile, equestrian fans will also be focused on the Agravis-Cup occurring simultaneously from January 8 to 12, which will showcase national dressage and jumping events. This competition provides local riders with the opportunity to compete at high levels, enhancing their skills amid elite athletes.
The month of January will be packed with additional international tournaments, including the CSI competition taking place concurrently at Neustadt-Dosse. With participation from elite riders across multiple categories, this event promises to intensify the competitive spirit of the new year.
Looking down the calendar, the excitement for the CHI Basel is heightened by the inclusion of entertainment acts to enrich the experience. The opening ceremony will feature popular Swiss musicians, setting the tone for the vibrant atmosphere expected throughout the competition days.
Another significant highlight at CHI Basel will be the farewell ceremony for TSF Dalera, the outstanding dressage horse owned by Beatrice Bürchler-Keller, which has won multiple gold medals alongside Jessica von Bredow-Werndl. The celebration of Dalera’s career is anticipated to draw considerable attention, underlining the event’s dual focus on competition and equestrian culture.
Competition enthusiasts will also have the chance to witness rising talents as the next generation of riders competes alongside established stars. This includes 20-year-old Geraldine Straumann, who is poised for her debut at the World Cup level, representing Switzerland's future potential in the sport.
The combined prize money exceeding one million Swiss francs demonstrates the financial significance of these events for organizers and riders alike. The highlight among the prize funds will be the World Cup jumping competition, which boasts 330,000 francs, presenting more than just bragging rights for the competitors.
With many riders aiming to accumulate points for qualification to the World Cup Finals, the competition will be fierce, and top performances will be eagerly sought after as participants look to secure their spot.
Continuing the excitement from local events to international showcases, equestrian sports remain vibrant as 2025 progresses. Andreas Kistler has expressed concern about shared audience interest between CHI Basel and the World Cup Finals, yet ticket sales indicate strong attendance is expected for both events.
Even with potential overlaps, the CHI Basel is already sold out for the weekend, showing the enthusiasm and passion for equestrian sport within the community.
Looking like it will be quite the eventful few months for equestrian enthusiasts, the upcoming competitions not only highlight the elite skills of top riders but also provide fans with compelling viewing experiences filled with excitement and camaraderie.
With all these elements coming together, it looks to be quite the year for equestrian sporting events as Germany and Switzerland prepare to showcase their talent on the global stage.