No horsing around: Italy and China deepen equestrian cooperation

Italy's oldest and most prestigious horse fair, FieraCavalli, has highlighted a new partnership between Italy and China, aimed at deepening cooperation in the equestrian sector.

Now in its 127th year, the fair celebrates Italian craftsmanship and horsemanship while highlighting the industry's growing international scope. 

In July this year, Italy and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will enable the exchange of horses, trainers, riders, blacksmiths and veterinarians between the two countries.

Speaking to CGTN, the President of the Italian Federation of Equestrian Sports, Marco di Paola, said Italy's long-standing expertise in equestrian education will play a central role in the collaboration. 

"Italy is the leader in teaching equestrian sports and wants to collaborate with China to help Chinese instructors understand the expertise of the great Captain Federico Caprilli, and transmit these teachings to their students," he said. 

Caprilli was an Italian equestrian who designed the 'forward seat' technique used by all modern jumping riders.

Di Paola added that equestrian sport has become increasingly globalized. 

"Our horses travel by air better than the athletes – and we have several Italian riders who travel to China to compete," he noted.

Among them is Italian showjumping rider Alberto Zorzi, who has already competed in China. 

"I've been to the Longines Beijing Masters in China, and in a few weeks, I will go to Chengdu for another show, so I really like China," he told CGTN just after competing at Fiera Cavalli. 

The partnership also reflects China's rapidly growing interest in equestrian sport. Marco Porro is the Selector for Italy's National Showjumping Team, and he told CGTN that the level of Chinese participation is rising fast. 

"When I travel internationally, I've noticed an increasing number of Chinese riders – they've improved a lot and are taking part in all the major circuits," 

With around 130,000 visitors each year, FieraCavalli is not only a celebration of equestrian tradition but also a key platform for professional and cultural exchange. 

Italian authorities say the MoU with China is just the beginning, with plans already underway for a formal bilateral agreement that could further boost equestrian trade and create new job opportunities.

Adolfo Rebughini, General Director of Veronafiere, said the industry contributes around 3 billion euros to Italy's economy and supports more than 100,000 jobs. 

"It's a first step toward something more tangible, a passion that is very important to the Chinese people but also vital to our economy," he said.

As Italy and China strengthen their partnership, both countries are betting that a shared passion for horses could be a winning combination, in sport, culture and business.