The international top-level sporting event at Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace will expand with a new discipline in 2026. From September 24 to 27, a full-scale dressage competition will be organised alongside the Longines Global Champions Tour for the very first time. Initiator and organiser Sonja Klima is joining forces with Matthias Alexander Rath for this new addition, while prize money will also see a significant boost.

The arrival of dressage does not come as a complete surprise. During the inaugural edition in 2025, Isabell Werth already stole the spotlight with DSP Quantaz when she presented her five-star freestyle against the palace’s unique backdrop. In 2026, that performance will evolve into a structural part of the event. Together with sport director Helmut Morbitzer, the expertise of Matthias Alexander Rath and Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff has been brought in — both known as key figures behind events such as the Frankfurt Festhalle Show, the Hamburg Derby and various championships at Gestüt Schafhof.

“The combination of international dressage sport, top riders and the unique setting of Schönbrunn Palace is exceptional. We are delighted to realise this project together and to give dressage in Vienna a stage that truly does justice to the sport,” Rath stated in a press release.

Isabell Werth, who previously helped bring the Stockholm Top Ten event to Frankfurt, also reacted enthusiastically: “It is very special that dressage is now becoming a permanent part of the Longines Global Champions Tour in Vienna. My freestyle to music last year against this unique backdrop was already an unforgettable experience. The fact that an international dressage competition will now take place during the LGCT sends a strong signal for our sport and is a fantastic addition to the event.”

Lipizzaners add extra prestige

Alongside the sporting expansion, another highlight is on the programme. The Lipizzaner horses of the Spanish Riding School will perform in front of the palace, as confirmed by Sonja Klima and interim director Maria Patek. The performance is scheduled for Thursday evening during the official opening.

Ticket prices increase significantly

With the expanded programme comes a notable rise in ticket prices. Standing tickets, previously priced at €20, will now cost approximately €37. Seated tickets will start from €75 per day.

While the final programme is still being developed, tickets are currently available in all categories — this time for four days of top sport, from Thursday through Sunday.