Joe Stockdale, Jack Whitaker and This Esme Return as Royal Windsor Horse Show Ambassadors for 2026
Two of Britain’s most exciting Show Jumping talents, Joe Stockdale, part of the British squad at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and Jack Whitaker, who continues the legacy of one of the sport’s most renowned families, will return as Official Ambassadors for Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2026. They are joined by prominent equestrian content creator This Esme, as the trio continue their long-standing association with one of the UK’s most prestigious equestrian events.
The 2026 Show, which takes place from 14–17 May, will provide an important opportunity for athletes to test themselves at the highest level as they prepare for this summer’s FEI World Championships in Aachen.
Stockdale has enjoyed notable success at Royal Windsor throughout his career, claiming victory in the Under-25 class in 2019. On the international stage, Stockdale was part of Great Britain’s team that secured bronze at the 2022 FEI Jumping World Championships in Herning and was part of the British squad at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He has begun the 2026 season in impressive form, recording his first CSI5* Grand Prix victory and adding multiple top-10 finishes to his results.
Whitaker has also become a notable figure on the senior international circuit and is a regular representative for Great Britain in 5* Nations Cup competitions, most recently in Abu Dhabi last month. In May 2025 he produced a memorable home victory at Royal Windsor Horse Show, winning the CSI5* Defender Stakes with Valmy de La Lande in front of an enthusiastic Windsor crowd.
One of the most recognisable figures in the equestrian digital space, This Esme also continues her role as an Official Ambassador. With a global following across YouTube and social media, she has inspired a new generation of riders through her engaging and educational content, offering insight into life with horses and promoting accessibility within the sport.
Joe Stockdale said: “It’s always a privilege to be part of Royal Windsor Horse Show. The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else, and competing there is a real highlight of the season. I’m delighted to continue as an ambassador and to be involved in such a special event again in 2026.”
Simon Brooks-Ward, Chairman of Royal Windsor Horse Show, added: “We are delighted to welcome Joe, Jack and Esme back as Official Ambassadors for 2026. Each of them represents a different but equally important part of our sport – from elite international competition to engaging and inspiring new audiences. They are fantastic advocates for Royal Windsor Horse Show, and we look forward to working with them again.”
Founded in 1943 to support the War effort, Royal Windsor Horse Show has grown into a premier annual event held each May, welcoming more than 55,000 visitors. The Show presents elite equestrian sport and displays across five arenas and is the only event in the UK to host international competitions in Show Jumping, Driving and Endurance.
The 2026 Show will once again take place in the private grounds of Windsor Castle with Defender returning as Principal Partner. Highlights of the sporting programme will include the CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix, the CAIO4* International Carriage Driving Grand Prix, and the CEI3* Royal Windsor Endurance. In addition, more than 200 Showing classes and displays will take place throughout the Show, featuring everything from Shetlands to Shires, military horses to retired racehorses.
Tickets and further details are available at www.rwhs.co.uk.
