Belgium prepares once again for a special dressage year
Belgium Dressage Events looks ahead to a promising dressage season in 2026 and proudly announces the dates of its three international events at Azelhof Equestrian Center in Lier. With CDI Lier, CDIO Lier and the Belgian Dressage Championships, a strong and diverse program once again features on the calendar. Belgian dressage experienced remarkable highlights this year, ranging from a historic home victory in the Nations Cup to an individual European gold medal won by Justin Verboomen.
The dressage season in Lier kicks off with the ninth edition of CDI Lier, taking place from February 24 to March 1, 2026. The international event will once again offer a wide range of classes, including CDI 4*, 3* and 1*, complemented by international youth categories. Over the past years, CDI Lier has established itself as a key fixture on the international calendar and is regarded by many combinations as an important early-season preparation event.
Preparation for the 2026 World Championship year
The year 2026 is marked by the FEI Dressage World Championships in Aachen, making CDI Lier an ideal benchmark for riders aiming to assess their form on the road to the World Championships. “CDI Lier fits perfectly into that preparation,” says Chairman Wim Verwimp. Entries for CDI Lier are now open.
CDIO Lier returns after successful debut
Following the highly successful Nations Cup event last year, highlighted by a historic home victory for the Belgian team, CDIO Lier will return in 2026. From May 21 to May 24, Lier will once again host a CDIO, further strengthening its position as a stage for top-level team competitions. In a World Championship year, CDIO Lier can also be seen as a valuable preview of the Nations Cup and team competitions later in the season.
Belgian Dressage Championships
The international dressage program concludes with the Belgian Dressage Championships, held from May 27 to May 31, 2026. During this championship, Belgium’s best combinations will compete for the national titles in an attractive and sporting atmosphere.
With these three events, Belgium Dressage Events once again underlines its ambition to bring together international top sport, talent development and national championships at one single venue. Further information regarding schedules, classes and participants will be communicated through the official Belgium Dressage Events channels.
Christmas gift for dressage lovers, and in celebration of a historic year for Belgian dressage
To celebrate the festive season and the exceptional achievements of Belgian dressage, Belgium Dressage Events is offering a special Christmas promotion. Until 1 January, dressage fans can enjoy 25% discount on tickets for CDI Lier 2026.
Use the discount code Happy2026 when purchasing your tickets and secure your place at one of the highlights of the international dressage calendar.
Photo Justin Verboomen & Zonik Plus: Digishots
