’s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands – March 10, 2026 – Each March, The Dutch Masters welcomes the world’s most accomplished riders and horses to the electric atmosphere of the Brabanthallen in ’s-Hertogenbosch. As one of the four Majors of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, the event occupies a place of distinction alongside the CHIO Aachen, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the CHI Geneva. Together, these four iconic competitions form the sport’s ultimate challenge – a test of precision, consistency and excellence at the very highest level.
The origins of The Dutch Masters are rooted in tribute and ambition. In 1966, a group of dedicated Dutch horsemen sought to honour their fellow townsman, Toon Ebben, by organising an international competition in his name. With remarkable determination, and under the guidance of the event’s first show president, Daddy Stibbe, the inaugural edition of Indoor Brabant – as it was then known – was staged in 1967 at the Brabanthallen. From the outset, the show captured the imagination of riders and spectators alike, quickly establishing itself as a highlight of the indoor season.
Growth followed swiftly. In 1979, the event joined the FEI Jumping World Cup circuit, confirming its place on the international stage. The addition of World Cup Dressage in 1986 further broadened its appeal, and over the years the venue hosted numerous World Cup Finals, welcoming the sport’s leading athletes to the Netherlands. Originally built in the 1930s to host agricultural fairs and cattle trading, extensive redevelopment of the Brabanthallen in the early 1990s ensured that the arena evolved in step with the sport itself, providing a fitting platform for elite competition and unforgettable performances.
Resilience has been a defining characteristic of The Dutch Masters. Though faced with temporary cancellations in 2001, and again in 2020, the event returned with renewed purpose, underpinned by the loyalty of its partners, riders, and fans. Throughout its history, it has balanced innovation with respect for tradition, preserving the unique atmosphere that sets the Brabanthallen apart from its peers on the global calendar.
A central figure in the event’s modern history was Gerrit-Jan Swinkels, who served as President from 2002 until his death in 2015 and, through his vision and unwavering dedication, was instrumental in expanding the show’s international stature and strengthening its long-term partnership with Rolex, leaving a legacy that continues to shape The Dutch Masters today.
A defining step in the show’s modern evolution came in 2014, with the introduction of the Rolex Grand Prix, signalling a deepening partnership and a new era of international prominence. Four years later, in 2018, Indoor Brabant was renamed The Dutch Masters and officially joined the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping as its fourth Major.
Since becoming part of the series, The Dutch Masters has delivered performances befitting its status. Among them, Dutch rider Willem Greve’s memorable victory in the Rolex Grand Prix in 2024. Rising to the occasion before a passionate home crowd, Greve’s success added another proud chapter to the event’s rich Dutch heritage while reinforcing its global significance within the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
Today, 60 years on from its origins, The Dutch Masters remains a celebration of sporting excellence and the enduring partnership between horse and rider. As the world’s best gather each spring in ’s-Hertogenbosch, they do so not only in pursuit of victory, but in continuation of a legacy that began in 1967 and now stands at the heart of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
Source: Press Release from Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping
Photo: © The Dutch Masters via Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping
