Arts & Entertainment

Will Rogers Memorial Center to Serve as Temporary Horse Hotel

The FEI World Cup Finals 2026 comes to Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, April 8-12.

Will Rogers Memorial Center
Will Rogers Memorial Center (City of Forth Worth)

The Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC) in Fort Worth is preparing to serve as a temporary horse hotel ahead of the FEI World Cup Finals 2026 equestrian event being held at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth from April 8-12.

The city announced the temporary lodgings in a Monday blog post. According to the post, thirty-six jumping equine athletes from 19 countries and 18 dressage equine athletes from 15 countries will be staying at the WRMC during the competition.

The horses will arrive at DFW International Airport on April 3, debark an aircraft that departed Liege, Belgium, earlier that morning, and make their way to Fort Worth and WRMC's Sheep and Swine Barn, which was renovated in 2024 to accommodate a greater variety of animal guests.

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WRMC General Manager Allison McNamara said the horses will be quarantined for two days upon arrival due to the international travel. Veterinarians will be on-site checking their health, and FEI is working closely with the USDA to follow all quarantine and isolation requirements.

McNamara said the FEI horses are largely warmbloods who are generally taller than most western discipline horses. WRMC stalls are 10 by 10 feet, which she said is a sufficient size for temporary stalling away from home, but FEI is bringing in 12-by-12-foot stalls just to make sure these larger horses are comfortable.

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The horses will also have access to riding rings. An entire team of stewards and veterinarians will be on-hand around the clock to ensure the horses are healthy and fit enough for competition.

Learn more about the FEI World Cup Finals 2026 here.

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