Change at the top of LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL

After 5 successful years, Andy Kistler has decided to step down as President of LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL for health reasons.

“I would now like to concentrate fully on my health and my family. The past few years, with this year’s highlight being the FEI World Cup Finals, have given me great pleasure. It was a great task and an exciting challenge. Thanks to Thomas Straumann, Christoph Socin and the whole great team for the wonderful collaboration,” says Andy Kistler.

Thomas Straumann will take over as Chairman with immediate effect. Together with Christoph Socin, who will hold the office of Co-President in future, the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL will continue in its usual tradition and
manner.

Preparations for the event in January 2026 are in full swing and on track. Thanks to the change at the top, nothing stands in the way of the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS 2026 being a complete success. Thomas Straumann and Christoph Socin have been involved in the management of the major Basel event since the very beginning.

“I regret the departure of Andy Kistler and would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to him on behalf of all of us who are in any way connected with the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL . Andy Kistler has worked hard for our event – with a great deal of commitment and passion – and has helped to shape it. I wish him all the best for his future at and, in particular, good health,” says Thomas Straumann.

Andy Kistler will remain a member of the Board of Directors of CHI Classics Basel Ltd.