Hopes for future return of Maryland 5 Star, with supporting three-star set to run in 2026

There are hopes the Maryland 5 Star will return in future, following the announcement of the event’s cancellation for 2026 this week.

A statement from the Fair Hill Foundation says the CCI3*-L, which has always been the five-star supporting competition, will go ahead in 2026 and reaffirms a long-term vision for the showcase five-star, saying, “This pause reflects confidence – not uncertainty.”

Since its inception in 2021, the Maryland 5 Star has been organised by the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland. This was a different team to those involved in organising Fair Hill International – before the arrival of the five-star, this was a high-profile CCI4*-L in October each year.

Now, there is a Fair Hill International at one- to four-star level in April each year on a different part of the Fair Hill site to the five-star, plus other events under the Fair Hill International banner including unaffiliated and national affiliated horse trials.

This latest statement suggests the future return of Maryland 5 Star may be under a different team, more closely aligned to the Fair Hill International organisation.

It says that the “CCI3*‑L event will take place as planned, supported by members of a well‑resourced organising group, including the very experienced Fair Hill International team, many who will be engaged in the next chapter of the Maryland 5 Star. This team ensures continuity for athletes, owners and fans while allowing thoughtful preparation for the five-star’s return. In coming days, there will be updates related to the CCI3*-L plans for 2026.”

The Fair Hill Foundation, which has issued this latest statement, is a non-profit organisation that describes itself as “dedicated to raising funds for capital improvements and, if necessary, operations for equestrian competitions in the Special Event Zone at the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, owned and managed by the state of Maryland”.

Maryland 5 Star at ‘a natural point of evolution’

The Fair Hill Foundation statement says it is “immensely proud of what the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill has become”, thanking those involved in the event and describing it as “more than a competition. It has been a statement of what is possible at Fair Hill: world‑class sport, meaningful community engagement, and a platform capable of attracting the very best of the global equestrian community.”

It adds: “As the Maryland 5 Star has grown, it has also reached a natural point of evolution. Events of this calibre require different structures, resources and leadership as they transition from successful launch to long‑term institution. With that in mind, and in close collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, the deliberate decision has been made to pause the CCI5*‑L competition in 2026.

“This pause reflects confidence – not uncertainty. It is a proactive step grounded in responsible stewardship and a shared belief that the Maryland 5 Star deserves the time, leadership and operational depth required to thrive for decades to come. The foundation is confident in this direction and will continue to provide support through various means to ensure a strong return in 2027.”

Later, the statement adds: “Looking ahead to 2027, the Fair Hill Foundation is excited about the leadership and organisational structure being assembled to guide the Maryland 5 Star forward. A highly capable, cross‑disciplinary team has been identified, and work is under way to finalise the framework that will support the event’s long‑term success. This approach allows future partners and sponsors to engage with clarity and confidence, understanding both the vision and the commitment behind the investment.

“The Maryland 5 Star was always intended to be more than a moment – it was meant to be a legacy. The foundation views this period as an opportunity to honour what has been built while ensuring that the event becomes a world‑class five-tar competition worthy of Fair Hill, Maryland and the global sport of eventing.”

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