Transparency or a ‘state of limbo’? HOYS returns to 2024 judging format

Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) organisers have confirmed some of the 2026 judges – but will not reveal who is judging which class until the evening before.

In a return to the 2024 system, competitors will not know in advance of qualifying who they will come under until the show, a move that HOYS organisers Grandstand Media said maintains transparency and fairness, and has had mixed reactions from riders.

Pony specialist Gill Thompson told H&H: “I think the format is really refreshing.