2026 Badminton Diaries Day 2: Stories from the Centre Line

On Day 2 of the Tour Diaries, we catch up with riders and familiar faces around the park as the first centre lines are ridden. Tom Jackson talks pressure, preparation, and why Badminton still gives him goosebumps. Lucy Jackson joins us ringside with her take on the first day of dressage, the judging, and what Eric Winter's track could bring later in the week. Bubby Upton opens up on the emotional reality of returning for a fifth Badminton with Cola.

Away from the interviews, Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl set the early standard on 28.1, with Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy continuing their rise on 29.3. With just three combinations breaking the 30 mark on day one, and some of the biggest names in the sport still to come, the leaderboard is only just starting to take shape.

Highlights

• Tom Jackson on pressure, preparation, and the magic of Badminton
• Lucy Jackson breaks down the opening dressage, standout tests, and the leaderboard
• Bubby Upton reflects on five Badmintons with Cola
• Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl lead overnight on 28.1, with Will Rawlin closing fast
• Plenty still to come, including Ros Canter, Sam Watson, and Tim Price on Friday

Guests

• Tom Jackson
• Lucy Jackson
• Bubby Upton

This year's Badminton Diaries are brought to you by:

Fairfax Saddles
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EcoVolts
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Uvex
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Zebra Products
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U.S. Equestrian Open
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