In September 2026, the international equestrian community will turn its attention to the Netherlands as the prestigious Peelbergen Equestrian Centre hosts one of the world’s most important gatherings dedicated to the remarkable Akhal-Teke horse.
Author: Derya SOYSAL
From 4 to 6 September 2026, breeders, riders, researchers, artists and horse enthusiasts from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and beyond will come together in Kronenberg for the World Beauty Championship and Equestrian Sports Competition among the Heavenly Akhal-Teke Horses.
Often described as one of the most ancient and distinctive horse breeds on earth, the Akhal-Teke occupies a unique place in equestrian history. Famous for its athletic ability, stamina and striking metallic coat, the breed has become a symbol of excellence and national pride in Turkmenistan while attracting admiration from horse lovers worldwide.
The event promises far more than a traditional championship. Throughout three days, visitors will experience a combination of elite competition, scientific exchange, cultural celebration and international cooperation, all centered around a horse breed that has fascinated civilizations for centuries.
Gathering the World’s Finest Akhal-Tekes
The festivities will begin with the arrival of participating horses between 1 and 3 September, as competitors and owners prepare for a weekend dedicated to showcasing the very best representatives of the breed.
The championship itself opens on Friday, 4 September, with judging sessions for young horses and mares. International experts will assess participants on conformation, movement, breed characteristics and overall presentation in the first rounds of the World Beauty Championship.
The sporting programme will also begin with a dressage competition, offering spectators a demonstration of the precision, elegance and intelligence for which Akhal-Tekes are renowned.
At the same time, the city of Venray will host an international conference titled “Akhal-Teke Horse: The Turkmen Art of World-Class Horse Breeding.” Researchers, veterinarians, historians and breeding specialists will discuss the preservation, development and global importance of the breed, highlighting both traditional knowledge and modern scientific approaches.
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Championship Day
Attention will reach its peak on Saturday, 5 September, when the most anticipated competitions of the event take place.
Guests will have the opportunity to attend the open meeting of the International Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding Association, as well as explore exhibitions dedicated to horse breeding, equestrian culture, traditional craftsmanship and artistic creations inspired by the horse.
The championship competition will continue with presentations of adult horses before judges select the overall winners from each category. The culmination of the event will be the crowning of the World Champion Akhal-Teke Horse, a distinction that represents the highest honor in international Akhal-Teke breeding.
Among the most visually impressive moments of the weekend will be the Best Decorated Horse Competition, where participants showcase elaborate traditional ornaments and decorations that reflect centuries of equestrian culture.
Sport remains at the heart of the programme. During the afternoon, visitors will witness a high-level show-jumping competition highlighting the breed’s agility, courage and versatility, qualities that have allowed the Akhal-Teke to excel in a variety of equestrian disciplines.
Turkmen Culture Beyond Competition
Beyond the arena, the event aims to celebrate the broader cultural heritage associated with the Akhal-Teke horse.
Artists, sculptors, painters, photographers and traditional carpet weavers will be recognized for their contributions to promoting equestrian culture through their work. Their creations will form an important part of the exhibition programme and offer visitors a unique perspective on the enduring relationship between horses and artistic expression.
The celebrations will continue into the evening with a gala reception bringing together international guests and representatives of the equestrian sector. Cultural performances inspired by Turkmen traditions will provide an opportunity to discover the music, artistry and customs that have accompanied the Akhal-Teke throughout its long history.
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A Global Meeting Point for Equestrian Excellence
The event will conclude on Sunday, 6 September, with final cultural presentations and the closing ceremonies.
More than a championship, the World Beauty Championship and Equestrian Sports Competition among the Heavenly Akhal-Teke Horses represents a meeting point for cultures, traditions and expertise from around the world. It offers a rare opportunity to witness one of humanity’s oldest horse breeds while exploring the rich heritage that surrounds it.
For breeders, riders, researchers and horse enthusiasts alike, Kronenberg is set to become one of the most important destinations on the international equestrian calendar in 2026.
For three exceptional days, the Netherlands will celebrate not only a horse breed, but a living legacy of history, culture and sporting excellence embodied by the magnificent Akhal-Teke.
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
