German Dressage Team Takes Lead at 2026 World Championships in Aachen

The German dressage team is off to a strong start at the 2026 World Championships held in Aachen, putting them on course for gold in the team Grand Prix competition. At the halfway mark, Germany leads their group, a position credited in part to debutant Raphael Netz, 27, who impressed riding his horse, Camelot. Netz expressed joy after his performance, stating, "We lead our group, that was exactly the mission," and praised the enthusiastic crowd and Camelot’s fine display. Experienced riders Isabell Werth and Katharina Hemmer, members of the victorious European Championship team last year, are set to compete next, further bolstering Germany’s medal hopes.

National coach Monica Theodorescu conveyed satisfaction with the team’s performance so far, calling it a "great exclamation mark" and affirming that the team's strategy was working well. Veteran rider Hendrik Wandres also shared his relief post-performance, acknowledging the intense pressure of competition, saying, "A huge stone has fallen from my heart."

The competition is taking place in the world’s largest equestrian stadium with a 40,000-person capacity, although the arena was not yet sold out as of Tuesday. Germany and Great Britain are currently the favorites for the team Grand Prix gold, with additional individual medals to be contested later in the week during the Special and Kür events. The World Championships officially opened on the evening of August 11 with a grand ceremony, setting the stage for a thrilling continuation of the competition.