Because the World Championships will take place in Aachen in 2026, an alternative venue was sought for the CSIO5* that is normally held there each year. Initially, Reiter-Verein Mannheim e.V. was set to take on that role, but for financial reasons, Mannheim has now withdrawn.
The German Equestrian Federation (FN) must now look for a new host organization.

Since 1964, international show jumping has been a fixture in Mannheim. In 2015, the city already hosted a CSIO5*, and since 2022, Mannheim has been the permanent venue for the Longines EEF CSIO3*.

“Mannheim has been known for decades for the solid financial foundation of its events. However, under the current economic conditions, it is no longer possible to raise the budget required for a CSIO5*,” said Peter Hofmann.

Once again, this highlights the ongoing issue faced by 5*-level organizers: they are required to invite and accommodate the top 30 riders free of charge, which places a heavy financial burden on them.

Donaueschingen seeks new organizer for 2027

The international show jumping scene in Donaueschingen will also see no revival in 2026. The city examined whether it could organize the event itself in the castle park, but that now appears impossible.

This year’s competitions were cancelled for financial reasons. “Organizing international equestrian events involves enormous financial risks, which we cannot bear on our own. Our focus is now on long-term planning. We are therefore looking for a new organizer who is willing to take over the event starting in 2027…” the city stated in a press release.