Zurich/Dielsdorf, 16 May 2026. – The Zurich Youth Masters 2026 mark the final edition of the internationally established youth show jumping event. Following a careful review of future perspectives and options, the Zurich Youth Masters Association has decided not to continue the event beyond this year’s edition. The decision was not an easy one for those responsible. It is based on an overall assessment of the sporting, organisational and financial framework conditions, which no longer justify a sustainable continuation in its current form. The Zurich Youth Masters 2026 will continue until Sunday, 17 May 2026, at the Horse Park Zurich-Dielsdorf and will mark the dignified conclusion of a youth project in international show jumping that consistently placed sustainability at the heart of its activities on multiple levels.
Since its first edition in 2022, the Zurich Youth Masters have established themselves as a high-quality platform for young riders. Over five years, the event provided an important stage for young Swiss and international show jumping talents and made a valuable contribution to the sporting development of young athletes. This year’s edition at the Horse Park Zurich-Dielsdorf is once again fully dedicated to youth sport.
Five years of commitment to youth sport
“We are proud of what has been built together over the past years,” says founder and show director Dr Yves von Ballmoos. “The Zurich Youth Masters were created with great passionand supported by numerous partners, sponsors, volunteers, officials, parents, trainers and, of course, riders from Switzerland and abroad. We extend our sincere thanks to all of them. We would also like to thank the Swiss Army for its support during this year’s edition.”
Changing conditions lead to the decision
The framework conditions for international youth events have changed noticeably in recent years. These include developments in international demand, an increasingly challenging competition calendar, rising organisational requirements, the high infrastructure effort involved and the long-term financial sustainability of such an event. Following the results of this year’s entries and after reviewing various options, the organisers concluded that continuing the Zurich Youth Masters beyond 2026 is no longer sustainable.
Thanks to everyone who supported the journey
The decision is not directed against individual partners, institutions or venues. Rather, it is based on an overall assessment of the long-term viability of the event. All the more important for the Zurich Youth Masters Association is to stage this year’s edition in a professional and dignified manner – combined with heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the event over the years with commitment, trust and dedication.
“Our full focus is now on these final Zurich Youth Masters,” says Yves von Ballmoos. “We want to offer participants, their teams and all guests one more sporting, positive and professional event. Precisely because it is the final edition, it should remain in the best possible memory.”