2026 Badminton Diaries Day 1: Tales from the Trot Up

Badminton is officially underway, and if day one is anything to go by, this week is going to deliver. From the buzz of the first horse inspection, to honest post-trot-up debriefs in the car with Sam Watson, behind-the-scenes chats with riders, vets, and some of the sport's biggest names, this first edition of the Badminton Tour Diaries has a bit of everything. There's a special catch-up with Cassie Sanger on her rise through the five-star ranks, insight into the cross-country from Piggy March and Tina Cook, plus a special live moment with defending champion Ros Canter, balancing life with three-and-a-half-month-old while preparing for another shot at history aboard Lordships Graffalo. Add in Spike's take on the field, Sam's first impressions of Eric Winter's track, and the usual behind-the-scenes chaos of Badminton week, and we are officially up and running. Highlights Sam Watson's first reaction to the Badminton cross-country track Ros Canter on motherhood, pressure, and Lordships Graffalo's title defence Cassie Sanger on Kentucky, Burghley, and what comes next Piggy March and Tina Cook break down the course Spike the Vet's take on the favourites, dark horses, and the week ahead Trot-up fashion, sponsor stories, and the authentic chaos of day one Guests Sam Watson Cassie Sanger Ros Canter Piggy March Tina Cook Spike the Vet This year's Badminton Diaries are brought to you by: Fairfax Saddles Scientifically designed saddles, bridles, and girths, built to help horses move freely, comfortably, and at their best. Visit Fairfax Saddles EcoVoltz Built for life on the move, from walking cross-country tracks to covering every corner of the showground. ecovoltz.co.uk/— please use your existing partner link if you have a direct landing page. Uvex Trusted by top riders worldwide for premium helmets and gloves, combining protection, comfort, and performance. Explore Uvex Equestrian Zebra Products Supplying world-class equestrian brands, from performance tack to rider essentials, trusted across every discipline. Visit Zebra Products U.S. Equestrian Open A new era of championship sport across jumping, dressage, and eventing in the United States. Website: usequestrianopen.org EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. 👀 Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing for your ultimate Badminton companion.