The international dressage horse market is entering a new phase.
This is not only about rising prices or increased competition — it reflects a deeper shift in how sport projects are planned, how buying decisions are made, and how true talent is managed.
The year 2026 marks a clear turning point. And not by chance.
A Competition Calendar That Moves the Market
In 2026, two major international championships converge, activating the market on a global scale:
- The Asian Games
- The World Equestrian Games
These events do far more than bring riders and federations together. They trigger investment, sponsorships, long-term sport programs — and, above all, a strategic demand for very specific horse profiles.
But the real impact goes well beyond 2026.
All Eyes Are Already on Los Angeles 2028
Many buyers are not purchasing “for now.”
They are purchasing to arrive.
The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games are already on the roadmap of riders, national teams, and private sport structures. This is why the market has clearly narrowed its focus to two key segments:
Grand Prix Horses Ready to Compete
Horses with international experience, proven performance, and the ability to enter top-level programs immediately.
These horses are rare, carefully protected by their owners, and seldom offered publicly.
7–10-Year-Old Horses with True Grand Prix Potential
This is currently the most pressured segment of the market.
We are talking about horses that already show:
- a solid Small Tour foundation,
- genuine quality and mentality for Grand Prix,
- and a realistic development window over the next 24–36 months.
These are the horses that allow riders to build a credible and strategic path toward 2028.
Less Supply, More Competition — and More Discretion
The direct consequence of this scenario is clear:
- fewer horses available on the open market,
- more off-market opportunities,
- more private and silent sales.
Many owners are not interested in “putting strategic horses on the market.”
Instead, they prefer carefully filtered approaches aligned with serious sporting goals.
As a result, buying behavior is changing:
- less mass searching,
- more tailored scouting,
- greater value placed on intermediaries who understand the sport, not just the price.
Rising Demand and Its Direct Impact on Prices
This environment is leading to an unavoidable outcome: prices are increasing.
The combination of:
- major international championships,
- medium-term Olympic planning,
- and a very limited supply of truly exceptional horses,
is creating strong upward pressure — particularly in the Grand Prix segment and among 7–10-year-old horses with real GP potential.
The Asian Market Enters with Strength
The Asian market is no longer emerging — it is now decisive.
We see stronger sport structures, riders training in Europe, and well-defined high-performance programs. This demand enters the international market with determination and competes directly with Europe and the United States for the same type of horses.
When multiple strong markets pursue the same profiles, the outcome is inevitable.
True Talent Is Valued Very Highly
Not all horses are increasing in price.
Only those that truly stand out.
Horses with:
- proven quality,
- competitive mentality,
- solid health,
- and a clear sporting trajectory,
are being valued very, very high.
Because the market no longer pays for generic promise.
It pays for certainty, real projection, and perfect timing.
A More Mature, More Demanding Market
The dressage horse market is not slowing down.
It is maturing.
More strategic.
More selective.
More professional.
And 2026 is not just another year on the calendar — it is the point where many sport projects begin… or fall behind.
