In 2027, Europe’s most promising young showjumpers will gather on Belgian soil for a landmark event: the FEI European Championships for Children, Juniors, and Young Riders. The honor of hosting this prestigious youth competition has been awarded to Stephan Conter, following a successful bid that received the full confidence of the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI).
The event marks yet another major stride for Conter, who earlier this year, in partnership with Dutch entrepreneur Eric Berkhof, acquired the St. Tropez competition grounds with the ambition of reigniting international equestrian sport in the region.
Conter and his team are no strangers to staging world-class equestrian events. Their flagship competition—the Brussels Stephex Masters—has long drawn thousands of riders and spectators from across the globe, thanks to its unmatched combination of elite sport and boundary-pushing innovation.
From state-of-the-art facilities for horses, riders, and grooms to imaginative entertainment and meticulous hospitality, every edition sets a new standard. The same level of ambition will now shape the youth championship in 2027.
“We find it incredibly important to inspire and support young riders in their development,” says Stephan Conter.
“The riders who compete in a Youth European Championship today may be the world’s best tomorrow. We want to give them not just a thrilling and educational sport experience, but also memories that continue to motivate them throughout their careers.”
Belgium at the Center of Equestrian Europe
Belgium is more than just a hub for top horses, riders, trainers, and equestrian businesses—it has become a beacon of equestrian organization. The FEI’s decision to award both the Senior European Championships and the Youth Championships to Belgium in the same year is a strong vote of confidence.
“This is confirmation of Belgium’s global reputation in equestrian sport,” says Glenn Maes, president of Paardensport Vlaanderen.
“The Youth Championships will serve as a sporting prelude to the Senior Europeans—making 2027 an exceptional year for top-level sport in Flanders.”
Expanding the Vision
Conter’s ambitions for the sport don’t stop at the national border. He recently made headlines for acquiring the competition grounds in St. Tropez alongside Dutch entrepreneur Eric Berkhof, with the aim of reviving international sport at the iconic Riviera location.
Through such bold moves, it’s clear: Stephan Conter is not just organizing events—he’s shaping the future of equestrian sport.
