11 July marks World Horse Day: celebrating the enduring bond between horses and people
On 11 July, the world celebrates World Horse Day, an annual observance established by the United Nations to recognise the vital role horses continue to play in society, culture, sport and the lives of millions of people. More than a celebration, it is an opportunity to reflect on their extraordinary contribution and on our shared responsibility to safeguard their welfare.
World Horse Day was created following a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in June 2025, at the initiative of Mongolia, a nation where horses remain deeply woven into everyday life, history and national identity.
For thousands of years, horses have accompanied the development of human civilisation. From agriculture and transportation to exploration and trade, and today through equestrian sport, tourism, education, equine-assisted therapy and countless working roles, their contribution continues to be indispensable across the globe.
According to data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), there are approximately 60.8 million horses worldwide. In addition, around 112 million working equids, including horses, donkeys and mules, support the livelihoods of an estimated 600 million people in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the fact that their importance extends far beyond the sporting arena.
The FEI, the international governing body for equestrian sport, has also marked the occasion by emphasising that elite competition represents only one part of the global equine community.
“World Horse Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary bond between horses and people,” said Sabrina Ibáñez, FEI Secretary General. “Across the world, horses enrich our lives in countless ways. They inspire us not only in sport, but also in art; they support communities, preserve cultural heritage and bring companionship to millions of people. This day is a moment to celebrate all that horses give us, but also to reaffirm our shared responsibility as their guardians to ensure they are cared for with respect, compassion and the highest standards of welfare.”
Equine welfare remains one of the FEI’s fundamental priorities. Through ongoing investment in research, education, veterinary science and the continuous development of its regulations, the Federation works alongside experts, National Federations and welfare organisations to promote best practices that ensure horses receive the highest standards of care throughout every stage of their lives.
World Horse Day also shines a spotlight on the remarkable diversity of equestrian cultures around the world. In Mongolia, where an estimated 3.4 million horses live alongside a population of approximately 3.3 million people, celebrations coincide with the traditional Naadam Festival, held from 10 to 13 July, where horses take centre stage through iconic races and centuries-old cultural traditions.
This year’s celebration also comes as the international equestrian community looks ahead to another milestone event: the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026, taking place from 11 to 23 August. Bringing together the world’s finest horse-and-rider combinations, the Championships will once again showcase the unique partnership between horses and humans, while recognising the dedication of all those who devote their lives to their care and wellbeing.
More than a symbolic observance, World Horse Day serves as a reminder that horses remain an integral part of our history, our cultures and our future. Their legacy deserves not only to be celebrated, but to be protected with knowledge, respect and responsibility every single day of the year.
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