Aachen, Germany – April 22, 2020 – Despite the March 25th announcement of a postponement to a later date in 2020 from event organizers, CHIO Aachen has officially been cancelled.
One of the largest equestrian events in the world, the 2020 CHIO Aachen scheduled May 29 – June 7, initially served as an Olympic team selection trial for many countries, but after the postponement it was set to operate only as a Nations Cup, 4* and 5* event. After consideration due to the health risks of the coronavirus, the organizing committee made the design to cancel the event with the next CHIO Aachen scheduled to take place June 25 – July 4, 2021.
“People’s health takes top priority,” said Frank Kemperman, Chairman of the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein (ALRV), and he also discussed the measures the federal government of Germany issued regarding mass events not being allowed to take place until August 31.
Other than not running during World War II, the cancellation marks the first time since the event began in 1898 as a horse race before expanding to international equestrian sports. Each year around 350,000 guests from all over the world visit the prestigious competition grounds in the course of the ten days of the event.
The event is well-loved and a highlight of many riders’ careers. With the financial challenges may are facing due to the coronavirus, the event’s organizers are reminded of their fans.
“The solidarity of the people with their CHIO Aachen is immense during these difficult times,” reported Carl Meulenbergh, the ALRV President. Many of the ticket holders have already explained that they have decided to forego having their ticket price reimbursed. “We are sincerely grateful to them for this generous gesture,” stated Meulenbergh, because: “As a non-profit making organization, the ALRV is reliant on this support.”
The tickets already purchased for the 2020 event can be transferred into tickets for the CHIO Aachen 2021.
“This was a very emotional and very difficult decision for us,” stated Michael Mronz, General Manager of the Aachener Reitturnier GmbH (ART). “[However,] we will organize a virtual CHIO Aachen 2020.
The organizers will present more details about the project over the next few days.