The fifth Soirée Hippique, held in the beautiful indoor riding arena at the Wenkenhof in Riehen, marked the official launch of the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL, which will take place from 7 to 10 January 2027.

Thomas Straumann and Christoph Socin looked back on the previous tournament and also offered a glimpse of things to come. A world-class field is once again expected. There is great excitement that world champion Steve Guerdat has already confirmed his participation. There will also be changes to the programme, including a new three-star class. There will no longer be a show; instead, riders and grooms will be introduced, there will be behind-the-scenes glimpses, and the winning jumps will be analysed live using graphics.

Honours were also bestowed upon the founding father and honorary president, Willy Bürgin, who celebrated his 90th birthday on 1 September.

A particular highlight of the evening was the talk given by Arnd Pollmann. The Berlin-based professor of ethics and social philosophy is also the author of the book ‘Human Rights and Human Dignity’. Under the title ‘From Human Dignity to Species-Appropriate Animal Husbandry – A Question of Responsibility’, he took the guests on an inspiring and philosophical journey of the mind. His fascinating talk encouraged reflection on the relationship between humans and animals, as well as on the responsibility we bear towards our horses.

It was a stylish evening attended by around 180 guests, full of interesting encounters and culinary highlights from the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, which whetted the appetite for four days of top-class international sport in Basel!