US Equestrian has confirmed that the prestigious 2026 Grand Prix Dressage National Championship will take place as a standalone event at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala – setting the stage for U.S. team selection ahead of the World Championships.
A New Era for U.S. Dressage
The 2026 USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship will be held from May 13 to 17, 2026, at the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala, Florida. Unlike previous editions, this championship will be organized as a standalone event, separate from the U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions. US Equestrian views this format as a crucial step to better align with international standards and to intensify the observation process for national team selection.
Why Ocala? World-Class Setting, Strategic Timing
WEC Ocala was chosen for its elite infrastructure, championship-level competition arenas, and ideal spectator environment. U.S. Dressage Chef d’Équipe Christine Traurig emphasized that bringing together top riders under uniform judging replicates the competitive conditions expected at major events like Aachen. The Roberts family, who operate WEC, expressed pride in hosting what they call “the pinnacle of American dressage,” promising a memorable experience for horses, riders, and fans alike.
Road to Qualification Starts This Fall
Qualification for the 2026 championship begins on September 1, 2025, with riders required to meet minimum FEI scores. Applications open on December 1, 2025, through the USEF competition portal. The championship will not only crown the national Grand Prix champion but also serve as a key observation event for selection to the 2026 FEI Dressage World Championship team.
Quelle: usef.org
