'Red Musketeers' set to charge into the FEI Longines League of Nations™ 2026

Belgium’s recent success reflects the depth, resilience and championship pedigree that define their nation’s equestrian enthusiasm. As they head into the 2026 series, the squad draws on a tradition of committed team spirit, competitive excellence, and sustained thoughtful ambitions - ready to meet the challenge across four continents.

Chef d’Equipe for Belgium’s ‘Red Musketeers’ Peter Weinberg gives us an inside view at what 2026 will bring for their Longines League of Nations™ campaign.

Belgium continues to be extremely competitive for a small nation in elite Jumping. What have been the key ingredients behind your qualification for the Longines League of Nations™ 2026 series?

The key ingredients have been depth, quality and continuity. We are fortunate to have an exceptional pool of athletes paired with truly top-level horses, which allows us to remain competitive across championships and series. Just as importantly, a strong team culture and long-term planning have enabled us to deliver consistent performances on the biggest stages.

Team spirit is the foundation of everything we do. We are very lucky to have outstanding athletes and exceptional horses, but it is the collective mindset that makes the difference. The Longines League of Nations™ is a perfect test for the Red Musketeers, and one we will rise to meet."

How do you balance promoting an ambitious team attitude with the need for consistency in team competitions?

Ambition and consistency are built on the same foundation: trust and team spirit. We encourage athletes to be ambitious, but always within a collective framework where the team result comes first. Clear expectations, mutual support and confidence in one another allow athletes to perform at their best while maintaining the reliability that is essential in team competitions. For Belgium’s Red Musketeers, success has always come from riding with the team, not just for individual results.

Choosing a squad that includes both seasoned championship athletes and newer combinations on the international stage is tricky - how do you balance that, and what value does the Longines League of Nations™ offer younger athletes in development?

We are in a privileged position to have both highly experienced championship athletes and exciting newer combinations coming through. Selection is based on form, partnership quality and suitability for team competition. The Longines League of Nations™ plays a crucial role in development: it gives less experienced athletes the opportunity to gain invaluable exposure to top-level team sport, under real pressure, while being supported by experienced teammates. This balance is essential for not only producing current success, but building future championship teams.

How does the Longines League of Nations™ format influence training, preparation, and team selection from a strategic and logistical standpoint?

The series requires careful planning and strategic thinking. It influences how we manage horses throughout the season, how we structure training blocks and how we rotate athletes. One of our key objectives is to see potential championship horses perform at Longines League of Nations™ competitions, ensuring they are tested in true team environments. This approach gives us a clear picture of readiness while maintaining horse welfare and long-term goals.

How important is the series in reinforcing Belgium’s position among the sport’s leading nations?

The Longines League of Nations™ is extremely important for Belgium’s Red Musketeers. It consistently places us among the world’s best nations and allows us to measure ourselves against the strongest teams. With major goals ahead - including the FEI Jumping World Championship in Aachen this year and the defence of our European title on home soil in 2027 - the series is a vital benchmark. It helps confirm that we are on the right path while continuing to strengthen Belgium’s position at the top of the sport.