The LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL came to a successful close on Sunday evening. Over the four days of competition, the audience enjoyed top-class sport in the disciplines of show jumping and dressage, fuelled by an enthusiastic crowd and an electric atmosphere in the St. Jakobshalle. The event thus once again confirmed its importance as an integral part of the international equestrian calendar.
From a Swiss perspective, the female dressage riders in particular impressed with strong performances. Special mention must be made of the two second-place finishes by Charlotta ‘Kiki’ Rogerson, which send an important signal for the sport of dressage in Switzerland. “These results are phenomenal and of great significance for the development of dressage in Switzerland“, emphasised Organising Committee President Thomas Straumann. This year’s event also featured thrilling competitions in show jumping. The results in the U25 categories in particular attracted attention with some surprise winners. “It’s wonderful to see how young riders can make the most of this stage. This is vital for the future of our sport”, said Straumann.
In today’s Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ presented by Bank J. Safra Sarasin, Richard Vogel on United Touch S emerged as the fastest rider in a high-calibre jump-off. The German rider won ahead of Kim Emmen (NED) on Imagine N.O.P. and Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen (NOR) on Equine America Harwich VDL. With this victory, Vogel also secured first place in the European League of the World Cup rankings. “I’m very happy to be able to win here in Basel in front of family and friends”, said the European Champion. His bold line in front of the ‘cheese wall’ in the jump-off proved decisive: “I knew that United likes Swiss cheese”, joked Vogel about the turn where he gained crucial seconds on Kim Emmen.
A great response from the public and participants
CHI Basel attracted a great deal of interest. A total of 25,500 spectators watched the competitions in person and created a fantastic atmosphere throughout the tournament. 104 riders from 21 different nations took part in both disciplines, underlining the international character of the event. The riders were full of praise for the organisers. “The audience and the organisation here are exceptional – in my view, it couldn’t be done any better”, said Charlotta “Kiki” Rogerson.
Focus on analysis and further development
For the Organising Committee President, 2026 marked his first time in this role. His assessment is accordingly positive, combined with a clear commitment to the further development of the tournament. “The most important thing for me is that we had no accidents. This meant we were able to enjoy some fantastic sport, with a brilliant atmosphere and a crowd that really got behind the event”, says Thomas Straumann. At the same time, he adds, a careful analysis is essential: “We don’t want to rest on our laurels. It’s often the little things that we can improve to create the best possible conditions for riders and horses”. Close communication with competitors, the judging panel and other stakeholders once again contributed to the smooth running of the event this year. The close connection to the sport, the enthusiasm of the audience and the special atmosphere characterised this world-class tournament right up until the final competition day.
Looking ahead
No sooner has CHI Basel come to a close than all eyes are already looking ahead. Preparations for the next edition are well under way, as is long-term planning. “Immediately after the event we begin preparations for the coming year and, together with our sponsors and partners, set our sights on the 2028 World Cup Final”, explains Straumann.
The Results, Rankings and photos can be found here: Gallery
