Public voting is now open for the FEI Awards 2026, giving equestrian fans around the world the opportunity to recognise the athletes, grooms and inspirational individuals making an outstanding contribution to equestrian sport.
The annual awards celebrate excellence across equestrian disciplines, recognising not only sporting achievements but also the dedication, hard work and positive impact of those involved in the sport.
This year, the public can vote across four categories, with nominees representing countries and disciplines from around the world.
Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete
Recognising an athlete who has demonstrated exceptional skill and achievement over the past year, taking their sport to new heights.
The 2026 nominees are:
- Steve Guerdat – Jumping, Switzerland
- Alice Layher – Vaulting, Germany
- Nina Mallevaey – Jumping, France
- Kate Shoemaker – Para Dressage, USA
Longines FEI Rising Star
Celebrating outstanding young equestrian talent and commitment, this award recognises the next generation of athletes making their mark on the international stage.
The nominees are:
- Lukas Heitmann – Vaulting, Germany
- Prins Lejeune – Driving, Belgium
- Teresa Leowald – Eventing, Germany
- Greta Lepratti – Jumping, Italy
- Jiayi ‘Dina’ Yu – Dressage, China
Cavalor FEI Best Groom
Recognising the essential contribution of grooms, this award celebrates the dedicated individuals working behind the scenes to ensure horses receive exceptional care and support.
The nominees are:
- Shahrouk Khan – Dressage groom for Gabrielle Thompson, India
- Romuald Le Goff – Vaulting groom for the French team and individual athletes, France
- Alizée Olivier – Groom for Eventing and Jumping athlete Gaspard Maksud, France
- Victoria Riskalla – Freelance Dressage and Para Dressage groom, Brazil
FEI Inspire Award
The FEI Inspire Award recognises individuals and initiatives that demonstrate the positive impact of equestrian sport, celebrating determination, inclusion and the ability to overcome challenges.
The nominees are:
- Equine Pathways Australia – Julia Battams, Australia
- Fazenda Educadora, Brazil
- Horse Rangers Association – Laura Griffith, Great Britain
- Tegan Vincent-Cooke – Para Dressage athlete, Jamaica
Have Your Say – Vote Before 1 November
Equestrian fans are encouraged to support their favourite nominees and help recognise those making a difference across the sport.
Public voting closes at midnight CET on 1 November 2026.
Votes can be cast through the official FEI Awards website, where further information about each nominee is available.
