Helsinki International Horse Show: Equestrian excellence

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Satu Pirinen

Every year, Helsinki becomes the epicentre of equestrian excitement as the Helsinki International Horse Show takes centre stage. Drawing in massive crowds of over 50,000 spectators, this event offers a thrilling showcase of world-class horse jumpers in action.

The Helsinki International Horse Show is the largest annual indoor arena event in Finland. The renowned show sees world-class horse jumpers vying for victory in the prestigious Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier. “In 1985, my colleague, Patrick Lagus, and I wanted to create the world’s best equestrian competition. Nearly four decades later, the event is more successful than ever,” says Tom Gordin, director of the event.

Helsinki International Horse Show: Equestrian excellence

Split second drama for the victory.

This year’s Helsinki Horse Show will be held at the Helsinki Ice Hall from 23 to 27 October. The event has seen most of the top international riders competing over the years. Last year, the event attracted the amazing top five riders in the world, including Swedish Olympic Gold Medalist and current World Champion, Henrik von Eckermann.

Richard Howley and Consulent de Prelet Z. Photo: Satu Pirinen

A two-heart sport

Equestrian excellence is at the heart of the Helsinki International Horse Show, where the bond between rider and horse takes centre stage. Each year, this event captivates audiences from around the world with its fast-paced action and breathtaking jump-offs, showcasing the skill and dedication of top riders from across the globe.

At the show, the emotional connection between the jumper and the horse is palpable in every stride. “This is truly a top jumping sport, and our event is thrilling for absolutely everyone. I call it a sport of two hearts: the rider’s and the horse’s. It’s magical seeing how they share an emotional connection and work together to achieve amazing things,” says Gordin.

Max Kühner and EIC Julius Caesar. Photo: Satu Pirinen

Tickets for the event are on sale until October, and there are a number of hospitality packages for those who want to pamper themselves and enjoy the show from a Ringside Table or Private Lounge – or have access to the VIP Lounge and a stylish VIP Buffet, to mention a few.

In addition to the Main Event, there is also the traditional Horse Expo, a marketplace boasting close to 80 exhibitors from across the globe showcasing their products and services to horse enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Richard Howley and Consulent de Prelet Z. Photo: Satu Pirinen

A world-leading sustainable equestrian event

One thing the people behind the Helsinki Horse Show are incredibly proud of is its commitment to sustainability. Between 2022 and 2023, the Horse Show decreased its carbon footprint by nearly 11 percent – a result verified using a carbon footprint calculator developed by the Helsinki Horse Show. It is reportedly the first carbon footprint calculator – or playfully named the ‘Carbon Hoofprint calculator’, specifically designed for equestrian events.

Throughout the years, the Helsinki Horse Show has received numerous international awards for its environmental initiatives, and the show is recognised by The International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) as a model event for sustainable development.

Helsinki International Horse Show: Equestrian excellence

“We are one of the country’s largest annual sporting events and our vision is to be the world-leading sustainable equestrian event. We encourage everyone – our subcontractors and partners, as well as visitors and riders – to contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing ecological practices,” Gordin says.

From the nail-biting competitions to the bustling Horse Expo featuring nearly 80 exhibitors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating the elegance and power of the magnificent animals. “The show is an exciting mix of ultimate top sport and entertainment. It’s a thrilling experience, and a fantastic way to see some of the world’s best horses and riders doing what they do best.”

Valtteri Gundersby appointed as new CEO

From 2026, Helsinki Horse Show will move permanently to larger premises at the Helsinki Fair Centre. “After ten years in the Ice Hall, which has served as an excellent home for the Horse Show, we’re moving to a bigger venue. At the Fair Centre, the entire event infrastructure will be indoors with a significantly larger competition arena,” explains Gordin. “Ultimately, we get better use of the space and can reach a broader audience – and we can continue to develop this world-class event further.”

Helsinki Horse Show will also change the date and from 2026 it will be held in late February, thus becoming the final event in the Western European World Cup League. And last but not least, Valtteri Gundersby, a 31-year-old lawyer and equestrian, has taken over leadership responsibilities as the new CEO of the organising company, BCM Scanhorse Ltd. Gordin will continue over a three-year transition period.