Results of the FEI General Assembly: Kazakhstan Approved as Host Country for International Competitions in 2026

The FEI General Assembly — the annual global forum that defines the future of equestrian sport — has concluded in Hong Kong. The event brought together delegations from 87 national federations representing 132 member countries of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). Kazakhstan has been a member of the FEI since 1993 and has participated in every General Assembly since joining.

Founded in 1921, the FEI has shaped the standards, rules, and global competition system of equestrian sport for over a century. During the first days of the Assembly, the Kazakh delegation took part in discussions on updates to the show jumping and dressage rules, qualification formats for the Olympic Games and the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen, as well as matters concerning athlete safety, horse welfare, and the development of the digital veterinary passport system. The FEI also presented a new governance model focused on transparency and professionalism.

FEI President Ingmar De Vos, who has led the organization for 12 years, announced his transition to a new role within the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

On November 6–7, plenary sessions and voting were held. As a result, Kazakhstan was officially approved to host three major FEI competitions in 2026 — a World Cup Qualifier, the FEI World Cup Challenge Final, and the Eurasian League Final.
This milestone will, for the first time, allow Kazakh riders to earn international qualification points at home, reduce the financial burden of competing abroad, and provide consistent international competition experience within the country.

Sergey Buikevich, Advisor to the President of the Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan, stated:

“Securing the right to host a World Cup stage, the FEI World Cup Challenge Final, and a qualifying event for the 2026 FEI World Championships in Aachen marks a major step toward the systematic development of equestrian sport in Kazakhstan.
For the first time, our athletes will be able to earn international qualification points without leaving the country. Young riders will also have the opportunity to compete in the FEI World Cup Challenge Final.
Our task is to ensure a world-class level of organization and make the most of this opportunity to strengthen athlete preparation.”

During the Assembly, FEI President Ingmar De Vos emphasized that hosting competitions in Kazakhstan aligns with the federation’s mission to expand the global reach of equestrian sport and integrate new nations into the international sporting calendar, expressing full support for the initiative.

Kazakhstan also presented new projects aimed at developing coaching education and modern athlete training systems. Both the FEI and Olympic Solidarity supported Kazakhstan’s proposals to launch the FEI Coaching System and a pilot international athlete certification program.

The General Assembly concluded with an evening closing ceremony, where the Longines FEI Awards honored the world’s top athletes, coaches, grooms, and event organizers — celebrating the achievements and spirit of global equestrian sport.