Compiègne is preparing to welcome yet again the World’s best dressage riders!

Press Release – 13/02/2019

Good news for the public!  Compiègne’s “Internationaux de dressage” are being held for the 9th time from the 17th to the 19th of May, organised by the Compiègne Équestre association who have the pleasure of hosting for the fourth year running, a 5 star Official International Dressage Competition (CDIO5*), France’s unique leg of the FEI Nations Cup. An event that again promises to be a real equestrian festival, around a full programme of top level sport and no less than 6 categories in the limelight.

Some of the biggest names in dressage as well as up and coming hopefuls in the discipline will be found in three months time at the Grand Parc Equestrian Stadium, trying to stand out from the crowd in one of the three dedicated sand arenas. The major class of this event, the Crédit Mutuel Nord Europe CDIO5* is the second 2019 Nations Cup rendezvous and is one of only four 5 star events, out of the eight that make up the season. Eight teams of 3 to 4 riders, whose names will be known at the beginning of May, will be stopping over at Compiègne. Last year, Sweden worked their way up onto the highest step of Compiègne’s podium. Also victors of the 2018 Nations Cup circuit, the Swedish team will obviously be defending their title mid-May. However, the seven other nations invited (Belgium, Denmark, France, Great-Britain, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United-States) will undoubtedly not make it an easy task for them!

Alongside the CDIO5*, five other categories will be completing the bill at these dressage internationals. The CDI3* will allow top class riders not having had team selection to ride the same “Big Tour” tests, that is to say : a Grand Prix, a Grand Prix Freestyle (greatly appreciated by spectators) and a Grand Prix Special ; whilst the CDI2* is aimed at horses and riders commencing international level competition, or not yet mastering the above tests. Youth is also placed under the spotlight with international categories (CDI’s) for Ponies, Juniors (14-18 year olds) and Young Riders (18-21 year olds). From Pony to the 5 stars, everybody will surely benefit from this large-scale meeting to practice and perfect their technique with a view to their respective European Championships taking place this summer.

Finally, an exhibitors village and various catering outlets will be set up around the main arena, allowing riders and visitors to go shopping or to make the most of a refreshment break whilst remaining close to proceedings. Like last year, old and young will be able to enjoy an exhibition of horse drawn vehicles and discover this universe with rides on offer. And for those under to attend in person, it will be possible to watch free LIVE streaming thanks to Cheval TV channel.

Free admission and parking / Catering on-site.