Rastede Ready for World-Class Four-in-Hand Action

Germany will be represented by seven Four-in-Hand drivers. The German Nations Cup team consists of Christoph Sandmann and his daughter Anna Sandmann, together with Mareike Meier. Competing as individuals are Michael Brauchle, Georg von Stein, René Poensgen and Mario Schildt. In total, 33 Four-in-Hand competitors from ten nations will compete in Rastede.

Investments

The centrepiece of the venue redesign is the concentration of the international driving competitions on the main arena. With the exception of the marathon, all CAIO phases will take place there. In recent years, the organizing committee has already invested in a new warm-up arena for show jumping and continued improvements to the venue’s infrastructure, creating the foundations for hosting international championship-level events.

For 2026, the main arena has been expanded to 75 by 115 metres, providing ideal conditions for international driving sport while also improving spectator viewing. The redesign also affects the dressage facilities. The D2 dressage arena will be relocated to a quieter woodland area, offering competitors a more relaxed atmosphere in which to perform their tests with fewer distractions.

New Chapter

"By hosting the CAIO, we are opening a new chapter in the history of the Oldenburg State Show," the board of the driving association Rastede said. "The improvements to our competition grounds are an important step towards meeting international standards while creating optimal conditions across all disciplines. These investments will continue to benefit competitors for many years to come."

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Source: Pferdesport Deutschland