Nine-time World Champion Isabell Werth is hoping to be in contention for the gold medals again this year. (Photo: ALRV/Arnd Bronkhorst)
At the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen, her ride created a moment that made equestrian history – carried by an atmosphere that still captivates her today. Since then, the world elite has grown even closer together and her own career as the most successful rider of all time has been enriched by further chapters. An interview with Isabell Werth about the intensity of 2006, the dynamics of recent years and the joyful anticipation of a World Championships where anything could be possible again.
You competed at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games in Aachen. What memories spring to mind immediately when you think about that championship?
Isabell Werth: Several, but predominantly, I think about the atmosphere – it was simply extraordinary. The whole city, the entire region was buzzing and the stadium was sold-out. I will never forget how we rode into that arena for the Special: full to the brim, an incredible atmosphere. You could practically feel the murmur and enthusiasm of the spectators, even though you were down there in that small "enclave" in the dressage ring. It was truly something special. To this very day, it has been the occurrence that has touched me most deeply. I have never experienced anything comparable with so many spectators, either before or since. There was even a kind of public viewing area on the grounds because there simply wasn't enough room to fit everyone in the stadium – something like that had never happened in equestrian sport previously. It was unique, the atmosphere overwhelming. And of course, we all hope that it will be almost the same again this time.
In what way did Aachen 2006 shape you as a rider? Was there a moment that is particularly etched in your memory?
Isabell Werth: Yes, there was a very special moment. I didn't travel to Aachen as the favourite, I was more like a wild card. I was initially nominated with Warum Nicht FRH, but he sustained an injury during the training camp. And Satchmo, the horse I ultimately competed with, had also had a difficult path behind him. To ride in there – finally with my soul-mate horse, who has proven himself in this stadium, repeatedly overcome setbacks and fought his way forward – that truly was something special. These emotions were actually palpable in the arena, even among the spectators. I was completely focused, but at the same time, I sensed that there was something in the air that went far beyond the pure sporting aspect. I will never forget that moment.
In 2026, the world of equestrian sport is returning to Aachen with the FEI World Championships. What are your expectations and feelings as you look ahead to this major event?
Isabell Werth: First and foremost, the clear expectation that we deliver a top team performance. It is similar to back then: Back in 2006, we travelled to Aachen with a team that wasn't exactly the clear favourite for gold. These days, hardly anyone is, because the level of competition worldwide has changed completely. We really have to make sure that we don't lose a single point – that is our objective. Anything else would be false modesty if we were to say, "We're going to Aachen and we will be happy to finish third." In the individual competition, anything is possible anyway. There is a group of favourites including Justin Verboomen, Cathrine Dufour, Lottie Fry – I think we are among them too – and a few others. A lot can happen, and in the end, form on the day, composure and how we handle the unique atmosphere will be decisive.
Is there anything you're particularly looking forward to – the event as a whole or specific competitions?
Isabell Werth: I'm actually looking forward to the entire event, because Aachen has developed enormously since 2006. The facilities have grown and many things have been modernised and expanded. The para events add further dimensions – there is a lot happening overall. This makes the whole event even more challenging, for the people of Aachen and the organisers, but of course, it also makes it more exciting for us athletes.
When you think about the young riders, who might be experiencing their first major championships in Aachen in 2026: What advice would you give them based on your experience from 2006?
Isabell Werth: Enjoy it. Soak it all in. Realise that something like this probably won't happen again anytime soon – perhaps not for another 20 years. Unless we succeed in bringing the Olympic Games to the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr region and the grand finale of equestrian sport then takes place in Aachen once again.
In terms of performance, the top dressage riders in the world have grown much closer together in recent years. To what extent is this development stimulating the discipline – and how much does it motivate you personally?
Isabell Werth: It has always motivated me to compete against the best of the best, to seek out the direct competition and measure myself against the world elite – and learn from them. I consciously observe things where I know I still have shortcomings and which we need to continue working on. This is precisely what makes the sport so exciting and, to a certain extent, thrilling. This constant challenge to further develop and keep pace with an increasingly competitive world elite is great motivation for me.
You would like to experience the special atmosphere at the dressage live? Then, secure your tickets now from the online shop, via the ticket hotline on +49-(0)241-9171111 or from the offices of the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein.