Will Rogers Memorial Center serves as horse hotel for FEI World Cup

Published on March 30, 2026

The FEI World Cup Finals 2026 is coming to Dickies Arena in Fort Worth April 8-12 and will provide a first-class experience for the elite riders and horses who will arrive from around the world.

Jumping and dressage riders won't be the only ones in Fort Worth's finest accommodations. Thirty-six jumping equine athletes from 19 countries and 18 dressage equine athletes from 15 countries will be "stalling in style" at Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC).

Arriving at DFW International Airport on April 3, the horses will debark an aircraft that departed Liege, Belgium, early that morning and make their way to Fort Worth, where their home for the next 11 days awaits at WRMC's Sheep and Swine Barn, which was renovated in 2024 to accommodate a greater variety of four-legged friends.

About the creature comforts

We sat down with WRMC General Manager Allison McNamara to get the details.

Q. What special accommodation is made for the FEI horses?

A. While all our visiting horses are special, there are some unique considerations for this event. Since they've traveled internationally, the horses will need to be quarantined for two days and veterinarians on site will be checking their health. FEI is working closely with the USDA regarding quarantine and isolation requirements to ensure a safe experience for all horses and riders.

Also, the FEI horses are largely warmbloods who are generally taller than most western discipline horses. WRMC-owned stalls are 10 by 10 feet, which is a good size for temporary stalling away from home. However, FEI is bringing in 12-by-12-foot stalls for these larger horses.

Q. Are there any other special touches?

A. Comfortable stalls and riding rings will provide the ultimate in safety and utility. An extensive team of FEI stewards and veterinarians will be on hand 24/7 to ensure the horses are safe, secure and fit for the highest level of the competition.

Q. How has the 2024 Sheep and Swine Barn renovation made this kind of accommodation possible?

A. In 2024, WRMC partnered with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo to fund a $40 million complete renovation of the interior of the 1940s-era barn. Before the renovation, the Sheep and Swine Barn had permanent metal pens that were small for pigs, goats and sheep. This made the barns unusable for all horse shows. With the renovation, the flat concrete floor allows us to bring in horse stalls or other equipment to create unique configurations for each event.

Its proximity on the west side of the property makes it convenient for horses to travel over to Dickies Arena for the jumping and dressage competitions and return to their comfortable stalls after performing.

Learn more about FEI World Cup Finals 2026, including onsite shopping and musical entertainment, and get tickets.

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