From 4 to 6 September 2026, the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg, the Netherlands, will host the World Equestrian Championships and the International Akhal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest. This was announced during a briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.
The major international event is being organized by the “Türkmen Atlary” State Association in cooperation with the European Association of Akhal-Teke Horses. Notably, the championship is being held during the year celebrated under the national motto: "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses."
The upcoming event is expected to play a significant role in promoting Turkmen culture across Europe. B. Matiyev, Head of the Diplomatic Protocol Training Centre at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, emphasized the uniqueness and importance of the occasion.
"This is the first time we are organizing a World Championship of this scale. Holding the event at a European venue is an important step that requires considerable support. Its purpose is to elevate the global prestige of the Akhal-Teke horse to an even greater level. Turkmen horses are our national treasure and source of pride. Today, Akhal-Teke horses enjoy worldwide recognition and are admired in both Asia and Europe. The forthcoming championship in the Netherlands is intended not only to showcase the exceptional qualities of these 'heavenly' horses but also to strengthen Turkmenistan's international cultural and sporting ties with the countries of the European Union," stated B. Matiyev .
The three-day forum promises a comprehensive program extending well beyond sporting competitions. A wide range of events will be held at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre, including equestrian competitions, the traditional beauty contest featuring the finest representatives of the Akhal-Teke breed, an international scientific and practical conference devoted to the preservation, breeding, and promotion of Akhal-Teke horses, as well as a large-scale exhibition showcasing Turkmen culture, crafts, and traditions.
One of the highlights of the event will be performances by the renowned “Galkynyş” National Equestrian Games Group and artists of the State Circus of Turkmenistan. A distinguished governmental and cultural delegation from Turkmenistan will travel to the Netherlands to participate in the extensive program of events.
