In recent years, the prices of elite warmblood sporthorses especially showjumping and dressage ready-to-compete sporthorses, have climbed to record highs. What was once considered a premium budget is now merely the starting point, raising questions across the industry about whether the market is becoming overheated.

A major driver of this shift is the widening gap between global demand and the limited supply of high-quality, correctly produced horses. Well-developed 7–10-year-olds with soundness, rideability, good results, and structured training have become increasingly scarce, pushing their value higher. This pressure is intensified by the globalization of the buying market. At the same time, modern buyers favor “ready-made” horses that are show-ready, and mentally reliable, while expecting clean X-rays and vet checks as standard. Combined with the growing professionalization of the sport these factors have contributed to an upward shift in pricing.

Performance results also continue to influence value. Horses with consistent show experience or international records often command significant premiums especially when paired with all the previously mentioned factors.

Whether this trend represents a temporary market spike or a permanent new structure is still debated, but one point is clear: navigating today’s sporthorse market requires informed sourcing, realistic expectations, and strategic decision to ensure performance and investment stand on solid ground.

– Founder of YHM