2026 CDI Sydney to Take Place in Condensed Format

Dressage

Australia

The 2026 CDI Sydney, a staple on the Australian international show calendar, will take place in a more condensed format due to surface improvements taking place at the Sydney International Equestrian Center.

The full range of competitions traditionally offered at the Sydney CDI will not be possible in 2026.

The Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC) has recently advised that,due to the re-surfacing of Arenas 1 and 2, there is uncertainty as to whether these arenas will be completed in time for the 2026 event.

"While this presents challenges for the upcoming Sydney CDI, we are excited that these long-awaited upgrades are now underway and look forward to their completion by mid-2026," said show organizer Toni Venhaus. "To ensure the quality and safety expected of an FEI CDI event, the competition programme has been revised to operate within the Indoor Arena, two outdoor competition arenas, and one to two warm‑up arenas, resulting in a necessary reduction in the number of competitions offered. SIEC is committed to carrying out the required works to ensure that the allocated arenas have the best footing possible."

The 2026 Sydney CDI will feature a streamlined programme, focusing on the Indoor Arena for the CDI and CDN Grand Prix competitions and outdoor arenas for the Young Horse Championships, Advanced, Small & Medium Tour competitions.

An international judging panel featuring 5* and 4 * judges from Luxembourg, USA, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, New Zealand, alongside Australia’s most respected judges, will be officiating.

"We understand how disappointing this news will be for many riders who had planned their 2026 competition season around Sydney CDI," said Venhaus. "These decisions were carefully considered by the Organisers and Dressage NSW Committee, and our priority remains the welfare of horses and the delivery of a high-quality competition environment."