Horses, grooms and para-riders are a focus for the organisers of the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 with new stabling, improved accessibility and a dedicated area for grooms at the Soers showgrounds.
Modern stables with historic flair
One of the most important infrastructure projects will be completed in time for the start of the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 with a new, modern stable complex featuring 204 spacious stalls built to replace stable buildings 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
The organisers say that “The facility meets the highest standards set by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). An advanced ventilation system guarantees an optimal stable climate, with a clear focus on animal welfare, functionality and accessibility. In terms of design, the new building resembles the historic stables from the 1930s and 40s, preserving the site’s characteristic charm, which has played a key role in the special atmosphere and high standards of the Aachen Soers for decades. The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Home Affairs, on the basis of a resolution passed by the German Bundestag”
“The FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 place the highest demands in accommodation for the horses, which is why building new stables was a necessary step for us,” explained ALRV Board Member, Birgit Rosenberg. “We are thus expanding on our proven standards and creating additional opportunities to satisfy the horses’ needs as much as possible. The well-being of the horses has always been our top priority and these new stables demonstrate once again our commitment to quality and genuine animal welfare.”
Isabell Werth, the most successful dressage rider of all time, also emphasised the importance of an optimal stable environment: “It is hugely important for the horses to have a sheltered retreat where they can recover and really find peace. The temperature, ceiling height, stall size, air circulation – everything is truly Champions League quality here, promoting the horses’ well-being.”
Focus on accessibility
A special focus is also being placed on accessibility: The new stable building features a modern guidance system, as well as accessible restrooms, showers and designated areas for storing electronic assistive devices. This ensures that all riders – regardless of their individual needs –can move around the stable area safely and comfortably.
Para-Dressage is one of the six disciplines at the World Championships, alongside Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, and Vaulting and the athletes taking part in the para discipline will particularly benefit from these improved conditions.
A dedicated area for grooms
Grooms can also look forward to improved conditions at the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026 in the new stable complex. A dedicated, spacious area – featuring dining and relaxation facilities exclusively for the grooms – will help ease the strain of the demanding competition schedule.
“For us at the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein, top-level sport and animal welfare have always gone hand in hand. The grooms play a crucial role in this. That is why making their stay in Aachen as pleasant as possible is a matter close to our hearts,” explained Birgit Rosenberg.
World Championships partner HAVENS is providing 800 thoughtfully assembled goodie bags to be distributed to the grooms upon their arrival at the Allianz Park – a token of appreciation for their tireless efforts behind the scenes.
