On 1 September 2026, Willy Bürgin will celebrate his 90th birthday. It is a matter close to our hearts to pay tribute to the founder and Honorary President who has had a decisive influence on equestrian sport in Basel.

« At some point, I just couldn’t sit still,» says our Honorary President, a man of action. When asked how one goes about founding the world’s highest-prized indoor equestrian tournament, he once replied in an interview: «I could say, because I wanted to, but it wasn’t quite that simple.» His secret recipe? An impressive professional career at Grauwiler Fleisch AG and an unbridled desire to give something back to the sport. After ten successful years at the Concours on the Schänzli and two Swiss Championships honoured as the ‘best national event’, he took the next step. His goal was clear: «I didn’t just want any old event, but the best in the world!»

Making way and setting an example Willy Bürgin knows when the time is right. When he stepped down from operational management, he aptly remarked: «At 83, it’s time to make way for younger talent.» This modesty is typical of him: he not only built up the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL, but also actively handed the reins over to the next generation. As Honorary President, his advice remains invaluable to our team to this day.

Despite all his success, our founder never forgets the people who have stood by him. For him, the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL are, first and foremost, one thing: a collaborative endeavour. «It is the sense of community that brings an event to life – the joy of the athletes and the sparkle in the eyes of the spectators.»

Warmest wishes Dear Willy, we congratulate you on your 90th birthday! We thank you for your pioneering spirit, your trust and the many moments that make our equestrian family so special. We wish you another year of good health and happiness – and look forward to continuing to celebrate ‘your’ life’s work, the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL, together with you!