World championship of Ahalteke horses 2026: From 4 to 6 September 2026

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.

Event overview and arrival

The international event will begin with the arrival and accommodation of participating horses from 1 to 3 September, transforming the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre into a gathering place for the world's finest Akhal-Teke horses and their owners.

World Beauty Championship begins

On Friday, 4 September, visitors will witness the first stages of the World Beauty Championship, where young horses and mares aged one to four years will compete before an expert international jury. 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 to 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 that will demonstrate 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 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. Whether you are an equestrian professional, a horse lover, a cultural enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable international experience, Kronenberg will be the place to be in September 2026. Join us and discover the timeless elegance of the legendary Akhal-Teke horse.

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.