European Dressage Championships 2025 – What to Expect
Aug 22, 2025
This summer, the spotlight of European dressage turns to Jiva Hill Stables in Crozet, France, where the Championships take place from 27 to 31 August 2025. Set on the French–Swiss border, just outside Geneva, the venue brings the Championships to France for the very first time.
Crozet itself is a small town with a big backdrop; the Jura mountains on one side and Mont Blanc on the other. It’s a peaceful corner of eastern France, but for one week in August it becomes the centre of European dressage.
The Competition
Over five days, the event brings together around 90 horse-and-rider combinations from across Europe, representing more than 20 nations. Riders compete for both team and individual medals across three phases:
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Grand Prix – the opening test that decides the team medals.
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Grand Prix Special – a more technical round where the first set of individual medals are awarded.
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Grand Prix Freestyle – the finale, where artistry and precision meet as the European Champion is crowned.
Behind the Scenes
The Horses arrive and are checked by vets before being settled into their stables. Alongside each rider is a whole support team of grooms, vets, and farriers keeping everything running smoothly. For a few days, Jiva Hill becomes a small village dedicated to dressage.
The setting speaks for itself: modern arenas built to championship standards, with the Jura mountains providing a striking backdrop. If you’re travelling to Crozet, expect competition rings framed by mountain views. For those watching from home, following the action is simple, tune in via official broadcasts and updates shared by British Equestrian.
Weather & Preparation
Crozet in late August usually offers mild, pleasant conditions. Jiva is expecting warm sunshine early in the week with the chance of showers later. The air-conditioned indoor arena offers a reliable warm-up space whatever the weather and looks super, the outdoor competition arenas are well placed for photo opportunities against the mountain backdrop.
How to Watch from the UK
You can catch the Championships live through a subscription to ClipMyHorse.TV via FEI.TV, with English commentary and replays available. Subscriptions start at around £17.33 per month on the annual plan.
As of now, BBC Sport hasn’t confirmed TV coverage but it’s worth checking back. Otherwise, ClipMyHorse.TV remains the most reliable way to follow every test, trot, and score as it unfolds.
Why It Matters
The European Championships are among the most prestigious events on the dressage calendar. With team and individual medals on the line, and Olympic qualification pathways often intertwined, this is where Europe’s best gather to define the sport’s next chapter.
Dressage Cafe On Tour
If you’re visiting Crozet for the Championships, take a breather and treat yourself to a café-style pause at the pop-up stands inside the venue. These typically offer coffee (or hot chocolate) along with local pastries, perfect for a moment of indulgence while browsing equestrian stalls or watching the action unfold.
Mont Blanc isn’t just the iconic mountain, it’s also a classic French dessert made of a simple chocolate meringue, creamy filling and chestnut puree. Just like the competition, it blends tradition, elegance and a little unexpected charm. Want to make it at home? Try this BBC Good Food Mont Blanc recipe
