The Dutch Masters 2026: the first of the four Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Majors gets underway
The Dutch Masters marks the first event of the year in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
The prestigious Dutch competition is one of the four Majors of the circuit, alongside the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the CHI Geneva, and each year it attracts the world’s leading horse-and-rider combinations.
The world’s top-ranked riders set to compete
Over four days, spectators will witness a top-level sporting programme featuring many of the sport’s leading international stars. Among them are the top three riders in the world ranking – Scott Brash, Kent Farrington, and Ben Maher – joined by the reigning European Champion Richard Vogel.
Competition in the main arena will begin on Thursday, culminating in the spectacular HeadFirst Group Prize – Best of Champions, a class that returns to the schedule following the success of its debut edition in 2025.
This unique competition will see four champions exchange horses, putting their technique, feel, and adaptability to the test:
- Henrik von Eckermann, Individual World Champion
- Richard Vogel, Individual European Champion
- Julien Epaillard, FEI World Cup™ winner
- Willem Greve, Dutch National Champion
The programme will continue on Friday and Saturday with several CSI5* show jumping classes, including the VDL Groep Prize and the Audi Prize, both key qualifiers for the most anticipated class of the weekend: the Rolex Grand Prix.
Dressage also takes centre stage
The Dutch Masters will also host the final qualifying leg of the FEI Dressage World Cup™ ahead of the Final, scheduled for April 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Several of the discipline’s leading names will enter the arena, headed by Individual World Champion Charlotte Fry. Among the contenders will also be two Dutch representatives, Marieke van der Putten and Dinja van Liere, ready to perform in front of the home crowd.
More than sport: lifestyle, technology, and innovation
As tradition dictates, the event will offer far more than sporting competition. Inside the Brabanthallen, visitors will find an extensive exhibition area featuring equestrian brands and luxury retailers, alongside a wide range of food options and hospitality areas for spectators.
The 2026 edition will also introduce new initiatives focused on innovation. In partnership with Equestic, the forum “The Future of Coaching” will make its debut, bringing together coaches, trainers, and media to discuss the role of artificial intelligence and technology in equestrian sport, with particular attention to performance and horse welfare.
Accessibility is also a key focus. Thanks to a new Rabobank-powered app, visually impaired spectators will be able to follow Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix in real time through dedicated live audio commentary.
Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix
The event will reach its climax on Sunday afternoon with the Rolex Grand Prix, the show’s most prestigious class.
Particular attention will be on Kent Farrington, world number two and Rolex Grand Slam Live Contender, who will aim to continue his winning momentum following his victory at CHI Geneva last December, keeping alive his pursuit of the ultimate prize in the sport: the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
Meanwhile, France’s Simon Delestre will return to ’s-Hertogenbosch to defend the title he won in 2025, determined to secure a second Major victory in the series.
The home crowd, however, will be hoping above all for a historic moment: a Dutch victory on home soil.
Photo: Rolex Grand Slam / Sofya Sk (c)
Source: Rolex Grand Slam press release
© Rights Reserved.
