2026 WEF Features Record $16 Million In Prize Money And Transformative Upgrades BY GRACE KLEMENT
Wellington is once again preparing to welcome the world for another extraordinary season of elite equestrian sport. The 2026 Winter Equestrian Festival returns from Dec. 31, 2025, through March 29, 2026, bringing 13 weeks of top-level competition, drawing in thousands of athletes, horses and spectators to Palm Beach County. Wellington International, backed by the support of Wellington Lifestyle Partners, has been preparing both the competition calendar and the facility itself after a record-setting 2025 economic survey, citing $536.2 million in economic impact in Palm Beach County. Riders, owners and spectators can expect not only record-breaking prize money, but also major improvements across the grounds designed to elevate the experience for everyone who calls WEF a winter tradition. 22 November 2025 | WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE
Record-Setting Competition Enhancements — Prize money marks the event’s iconic status, and WEF will now offer a record $16 million in total available winnings. The Rolex US Equestrian Open CSI5* Grand Prix has increased its prize money to a landmark $1 million. Riders competing in the 4* WEF Grand Prix qualifiers will also benefit, with prize money increasing from $62,500 to $116,100. More than $2 million will be offered in hunter prize money during the season. The schedule features 68 FEI jumping world ranking classes and updated FEI Winning Round Qualifiers in a tworound format with faults carrying forward. These refinements are designed to create an even more thrilling sport while offering competitors valuable ranking opportunities. Junior and amateur riders will also
feel the excitement, since prize money in all 1.25m and higher Jumper Classics has risen from $10,000 to $15,000, as well as an additional Medium Amateur team class. Spectators can also look forward to an upgraded experience, with night classes promising new surprises to keep the energy high under the lights. And for fans who love to take a piece of WEF home, an all-new line of