The Netherlands Becomes the World Stage for the Legendary Akhal-Teke Horse

Horse enthusiasts, breeders, scientists, artists, and guests from around the world are invited to gather at the renowned Peelbergen Equestrian Centre for the World Beauty Championship and Equestrian Sports Competition among the Heavenly Akhal-Teke Horses.

Known as one of the oldest and most elegant horse breeds in the world, the Akhal-Teke horse is celebrated for its extraordinary beauty, endurance, intelligence, and historical significance. Often referred to as the “Heavenly Horse,” the breed represents centuries of Turkmen equestrian tradition and remains a treasured symbol of national heritage.

The Turkmen Akhal-Teke Horse

The Akhal-Teke is a horse breed that originated in the territory of present-day Turkmenistan. Known for its tall stature, intelligence, agility, strength, and glossy coat, the breed is remarkably resilient and capable of enduring long periods with limited food and water. Its distinctive, shimmering coat has earned it the nickname “Golden Horse.”

Today, the Akhal-Teke is considered one of the fastest horse breeds in the world, alongside the English Thoroughbred. Its origins are believed to date back approximately 3,000 years.

According to the Eastern calendar, 2026 is the Year of the Horse. Horses occupy a central place in Turkmen national identity: they are a source of pride, a priceless heritage, and a symbol of historical achievement. Among them, the Akhal-Teke horse is internationally renowned.

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Photo credit: Derya Soysal

The Art of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding and the Traditions of Horse Decoration were officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on 5 December 2023.

Event Overview and Arrival

The international event will begin on Friday, 4 September, with the first stages of the World Beauty Championship, where young horses and mares aged one to four years will compete before an international jury of experts.

The day will also feature an exciting dressage competition, demonstrating the grace, discipline, and athleticism for which the breed is renowned.

At the same time, academics, breeders, and equestrian specialists will convene in Venray for the International Scientific and Practical Conference, “Akhal-Teke Horse: The Turkmen Art of World-Class Horse Breeding,” highlighting the historical, cultural, and scientific dimensions of Akhal-Teke breeding.

Main Championship Day

The highlight of the championship will take place on Saturday, 5 September.

High-level guests will be welcomed at Peelbergen before attending the open conference of the International Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding Association. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore a special exhibition dedicated to Turkmen equestrian art, culture, artistic creativity, and the European horse industry.

The excitement will continue with the beauty competition for adult horses, followed by the selection of the World Champion Akhal-Teke Horse among the winners of all categories.

Another crowd favorite, the Best Decorated Horse Competition, will showcase the artistry and traditions associated with the breed.

During the afternoon, spectators will enjoy a thrilling show-jumping competition demonstrating the remarkable versatility and sporting abilities of the Akhal-Teke horse.

The championship celebrations will culminate in a prestigious awards ceremony honoring the winners of the beauty and sporting competitions, as well as artists, sculptors, painters, and carpet weavers who have captured the beauty of horses through their creative works.

The evening gala dinner promises to be a memorable occasion, bringing together international guests in a festive atmosphere accompanied by performances from distinguished masters of Turkmen culture and the arts.

The event will offer a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Turkmen traditions while celebrating excellence in the equestrian world.

Final Day and Closing

The championship will conclude on Sunday, 6 September, with cultural performances and the closing of the exhibition, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation of the extraordinary relationship between culture, history, and horse breeding.

More than a competition, the World Beauty Championship and Equestrian Sports Competition among the Heavenly Akhal-Teke Horses is a global celebration of heritage, sport, science, and intercultural dialogue.

Why You Should See the Akhal-Teke Horses

Today, Akhal-Teke horses—distinguished for centuries by their strength, agility, and elegance—adorn the State Emblem of Turkmenistan, symbolizing the development of an independent and permanently neutral state.

Some researchers consider the Akhal-Teke one of the oldest horse breeds in the world.

The modern name “Akhal-Teke” emerged in 1881, combining the name of the Teke Turkmen tribe with that of the Akhal oasis.

The breed’s physical characteristics are the result not only of natural selection but also of centuries of selective breeding by the Turkmen people, who prioritized endurance, speed, and intelligence.

The cultural importance of horses is further evidenced by numerous Turkmen proverbs (Gökçimen, 2005: 201), including:

“At adamyň ganaty.”
A horse is a person’s wings.

“Ýigidiň myrady atdyr. Aty saklamak döwletdir.”
A brave man’s desire is a horse; caring for a horse is a fortune.

A Rare and Precious Heritage

Today, the Akhal-Teke is considered a rare breed, with fewer than 7,000 horses worldwide.

According to UNESCO analyses, Akhal-Teke horses are associated with numerous customs and traditions, including naming rituals, beauty contests, and equestrian competitions.

They constitute a national treasure of the people of Turkmenistan and remain a powerful symbol of their history, cultural heritage, and independence.

Conclusion

The World Beauty Championship and Equestrian Sports Competition among the Heavenly Akhal-Teke Horses is far more than an international sporting event. It is a celebration of a living heritage that connects history, culture, art, science, and the timeless bond between humans and horses.

For centuries, the Akhal-Teke has embodied the spirit, endurance, elegance, and cultural identity of the Turkmen people. Its distinctive beauty and exceptional qualities have transformed it into one of the world’s most remarkable and recognizable horse breeds.

In September 2026, this extraordinary heritage will travel from Turkmenistan to the Netherlands, bringing together breeders, riders, researchers, artists, diplomats, and horse enthusiasts from around the world.

Kronenberg will therefore become not only a meeting place for the international equestrian community, but also a bridge between cultures and generations.

Come and discover the legendary Akhal-Teke horse—an enduring symbol of beauty, strength, freedom, and the rich cultural heritage of Turkmenistan.

4–6 September 2026 | Peelbergen Equestrian Centre | Kronenberg, the Netherlands

Entry for all visitors is free. The venue is Peelbergen Equestrian Centre, Travers 5, 5976 NJ Kronenberg, Netherlands. Registration, tickets, and media accreditation: peelbergen.eu | csi@peelbergen.eu | +31 (0) 6 38273834.

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