...One of the greatest five-star equestrian events in the world.

While horses and riders make their way to Burghley, the final touches are being made across the Estate, from the cross-country course to the shopping village and showground, before the gates open for Wednesday afternoon’s First Horse Inspection and the CCI5* Dressage gets underway on Thursday.

It’s going to be another vintage competition.

Event week is finally here and you won’t want to miss a moment.

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THE SPORT AHEAD

One thing is already certain…

We’ll have a new equine winner at Defender Burghley in 2026!

Defender Burghley’s stacked field of horse and riders includes 51 combinations representing seven nations, including 18 Olympians and 10 CCI5 winners. There’s also plenty of exciting new talent in the field, with nine riders set to make their Burghley debut, while 14 riders recently competed at the World Championships in Aachen.

From the elegance and precision of Thursday and Friday’s Dressage, through the adrenaline and spectacle of Saturday Cross-Country, to the high-stakes Sunday Showjumping finale, four days of world-class competition await.

Who will be crowned Defender Burghley Champion 2026?

VIEW THE CCI5* ENTRIES

LEGENDS RETURN TO BURGHLEY

It’s not just the 2026 field making headlines. Some of Burghley’s biggest names will also be back throughout the week.

Fresh from World Championship glory, Ros Canter, Laura Collett, Tom McEwen and Gemma Stevens will feature in Sunday’s Gold Medal Parade, while Carl Hester will train former Burghley stars Toledo De Kerser and 2022 winner Vanir Kamira during Friday’s Main Arena Masterclass.

Two-time champion Ballaghmor Class will also return with Oliver Townend for his official retirement ceremony, while six-time winner William Fox-Pitt joins us for Wednesday’s Tea & Trot Up.

Past champions. Current champions. Horses and riders who have made Burghley history. Quite a line-up. Quite a week ahead.

Can’t be with us at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials this week?

We can bring Burghley to you.

Watch every phase live or on demand on Burghley TV, from the First Horse Inspection all they way through to Sunday’s Showjumping finale, with expert commentary, behind-the-scenes access, rider interviews, daily highlights show and so much more.

Enjoy 12 months of Burghley TV for just £25 and experience every moment, wherever you are.

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Spotlight on Sponsors: NFU Mutual

Protecting your passion with specialist equine insurance

Whether you're enjoying a day at Burghley, competing throughout the season or caring for horses at home, horses are more than a hobby, they're a way of life. Having the right insurance in place can help give you confidence when the unexpected happens.

NFU Mutual's specialist Equine Insurance offers a range of cover options to help protect both you and your horse, including veterinary fees, loss of a horse, personal accident and public liability cover. We can also help protect your horsebox, trailer, tack and equipment, providing reassurance across every aspect of your equestrian lifestyle.

Our experienced teams understand the unique needs of horse owners and riders, taking the time to provide a personal service and help find cover that's right for you.

To learn more about our equine insurance and the cover available, visit NFU Mutual Equine Insurance or speak to your local NFU Mutual agency.

NFU Mutual are proud to sponsor the 2026 Burghley Horse Trials and look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand A23, where our team will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the cover options available.

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