Competition Updates
· Over $1,000,000 prize money increase to a record $16,000,000!
· Rolex US Equestrian Open 5* Grand Prix prize money increased to $1,000,000 plus THREE other $500,000 5* Grand Prix’s
· All 4* WEF Grand Prix qualifiers prize money increased from $62,500 to $116,100
· 62 Jumping World Ranking Classes
· FEI Winning Round Qualifiers: Updated to a two-round format with faults carried forward
· Prize Money increased in ALL 1.25M and above A/O and Junior Jumper Classicsfrom $10,000 to $15,000
· All-new team Amateur Jumper class
· 3 Dressage World Cup Qualifiers
· A world-class dressage masterclass featuring some of the sport’s top international riders.
· Many Spectator Surprises for night classes.
Wellington International Facility Updates (North Venue)
Upgrades and facility enhancements have been completed at Wellington International for the 2026 competition season. Learn more below.
FEI Barns
The FEI barns are being completely renovated to include new Barnwalkers Pro-Series Stalls and Equitan rubber surfaces are being installed for equine safety and comfort. In addition to numerous other enhancements within FEI.
Footing Enhancements
New GGT textile footing is installed by JTWG, Inc. in the International Arena and International Schooling Area.
Grand Hunter, Main Lunging Ring, as well as Rings 11 & 12 also got all new bases with improved drainage and new footing.
All New Bridle Paths
All bridle paths are being replaced with Equitan surfaces and Ebb & Flow footing.
Pony Island Enhancements
In addition to all new drainage and footing in Rings 11 & 12 (located inside of Pony Island), spectators and exhibitors alike can enjoy all new bathrooms. Brand-new Equitan surfacing has been installed around the restrooms, giving them a fresh look.
Pony Island is receiving a brand-new facelift for a fresh, modern look for everyone to enjoy.
Golf Cart Path Expansion
High-usage golf cart paths are getting expanded to improve traffic flow and allow for safer travel!
Landscaping Enhancements
Numerous landscaping improvements throughout Wellington International have been made, such as:
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Exhibitor Enhancements
To improve the exhibitor experience, all roads between barns have been paved to reduce dirt and elevate your driving experience.
The manure bins have been fully renovated to improve waste separation.
Wash stalls have received a face-lift for a fresh look.
At Equestrian Village
The dressage spectator stands at Equestrian Village will be covered during the 2026 competition season.
The judges’ stands at Equestrian Village that are used for the dressage competition have been redesigned to minimize obstructed views.
Additional Enhancements
Wifi enhancements throughout the property for better connectivity.
New Website consolidating Jumping, Hunter/Jumpers and Dressage and expanded bandwidth for ease and speed of use (launching this fall).
Numerous food & beverage enhancements including food service in the box seats, new Tiki Hut furniture, new self-contained buffet bars, renovated kitchen and much more.
South Venue Updates by Wellington Lifestyle Partners
All New Rings
The three rings completed last year will be supplemented by one additional new ring. All four will be available for exercise during the 2026 WEF season.
The Grass Derby Field has been completed and will be growing a solid root base for use in the 2027 season.
A new 205' by 420' covered arena is currently being constructed by Coastal Steel Structures
Improved Traffic Flow
Roadwork is underway at Pierson Road & South Shore and Gracida & South Shore to improve traffic flow.