This year’s Olympia, The London International Horse Show, has been cancelled.

The cancellation was announced by the show’s organising committee this afternoon, citing “commercial implications of the government’s social distancing guidelines and the numerous additional Covid-19 safety requirements” as the reason.

This year’s Olympia, The London International Horse Show, has been cancelled.

The cancellation was announced by the show’s organising committee this afternoon, citing “commercial implications of the government’s social distancing guidelines and the numerous additional Covid-19 safety requirements” as the reason.

It comes after several months of looking at ways to run the show in a Covid-19 secure way. However, it hasn’t been possible to find a solution. The 2020 show would have been its 49th fixture.

Olympia is a firm favourite in the equestrian Christmas diary. For many, Christmas starts at Olympia.

“My father, together with Clarion Events, started the Olympia Horse Show in 1972 and it has run every year since, meaning that this year would have been our 49th show,” said show director Simon Brooks-Ward.

“My brothers and I have attended every show and therefore I completely empathise with the sadness felt by our visitors, who will not be cheering, laughing, and clapping in the Grand Hall this year.

“I also understand the disappointment felt by our competitors, officials, sponsors and particularly our trade stand exhibitors, who would have been particularly looking forward to the Christmas boost that Olympia gives them.

“Olympia holds a special place in the equestrian world’s hearts. Generations of families have held their Christmas parties at the show and many will not be able to imagine a Christmas without a visit to Olympia.”

Simon confirmed that the organising committee are now looking ahead to next year’s Olympia.

“We are looking forward to being back in 2021, with a bumper show to celebrate our 50th anniversary,” he said.

“I am extremely grateful for the supportive messages we have received from the equestrian community over the summer and am only sorry that we are unable to be with them at Olympia this Christmas.”

The 2021 show will kick off on Wednesday 15 December and conclude on Monday 20 December.