139 young breeders from 19 studbooks and breeding organisations set to compete at Celle State Stud from 16–19 July

The next generation of sport horse breeding talent will take centre stage this summer as the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) International Young Breeders (IYB) World Championships returns to the international calendar from 16–19 July at Germany's renowned Celle State Stud.

Hosted by Deutsche Jungzüchter under the auspices of the WBFSH and International Young Breeders, the Championships will welcome 139 young competitors representing 19 studbooks and breeding organisations from across the globe. Participants will travel from countries including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Ireland, Latvia, Sweden, The Netherlands and host nation Germany, while several of Germany's leading breeding associations will also be strongly represented.

Widely recognised as one of the most important educational and networking events for young breeders worldwide, the Championships combine competition, learning and cultural exchange. Established through the International Young Breeders initiative and supported by the WBFSH, the event provides a unique platform for young people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds to connect through their shared passion for horses and breeding.

Competitors, aged between 16 and 26, will compete in both junior and senior divisions, individually and as part of national teams. Throughout four intensive days, participants will demonstrate a broad range of theoretical and practical skills essential to modern sport horse breeding and management.

The competition begins with a comprehensive theory examination covering subjects including breeding, nutrition, stable management, equine health, conformation and international sport. Practical assessments continue throughout Friday and Saturday, with competitors tested on their ability to evaluate horse conformation, assess loose movement and jumping technique, and present horses in-hand.

Approximately 45 horses, generously provided by local owners and breeders, will form the centrepiece of the practical competitions.

One of the most anticipated disciplines is the presentation in-hand competition, widely regarded as the most technically demanding phase of the Championships. Competitors must quickly establish rapport with unfamiliar horses before presenting them to judges in stance, walk and trot. Success requires a combination of horsemanship, precision, confidence and composure.

Teamwork and professionalism are also central to the event. Teams compete in a dedicated turnout competition where horses must be groomed, plaited and prepared to the highest standard, reflecting the attention to detail expected within elite breeding operations.

Beyond the competition arena, participants will take part in a vibrant social and educational programme designed to foster international friendships and professional networks. Activities include team-building events, networking opportunities and celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of International Young Breeders. Educational visits to respected breeding establishments, including Gestüt Famos in Syke and Hof Brüning in Ochtmannien, will provide valuable insight into Germany's world-renowned breeding industry.

An international panel of judges from Denmark, France, Sweden, The Netherlands and Germany will oversee the Championships. During the horse assessment phases, competitors aim to match the judges' evaluations as accurately as possible, with the closest scores determining the winners of those disciplines.

The event is made possible through the dedication of a large team of volunteers and officials. Special recognition is extended to the organising committee, including Ines Rathke, Lisa Kurtz and State Stud Manager Dr. Axel Brockmann, whose extensive efforts have helped prepare for the international gathering.

The Championships will conclude on Saturday evening with an awards ceremony and celebration, bringing together participants, supporters and organisers to recognise excellence, friendship and the shared future of sport horse breeding worldwide.

International Young Breeders President Inge Madsen is looking forward to welcoming participants to Celle.

"It is always exciting to be part of the WBFSH International Young Breeders World Championships, whether you are a team member, trainer, supporter, organiser or volunteer," said Madsen.

"Celle will be full of young horse enthusiasts from near and far, creating a special energy and atmosphere throughout the event. The joy, friendships and enthusiasm will be evident, but so too will the concentration, nerves and hard work.

"Participants and trainers have spent many months preparing at home and are ready to demonstrate their skills. I look forward to experiencing the historic city of Celle, visiting the State Stud, meeting both familiar faces and new friends from our member studbooks, and learning about their ideas and vision for the future. A big thank you goes to the hosts and organisers for all their hard work in making this event possible."

Further information is available at https://www.wbfsh.com/iyb/championships