Inside Defender Burghley 2026: Entries Reaction Show

Aachen is behind us and attention turns to Burghley, with a seriously exciting five-star field ready to take on one of the biggest tests in the sport.

Nicole and Sam take their first look at the entries, from proven five-star stars to a new generation of horses and riders who look ready to put their names in the history books. With 19 Olympians, two former Burghley winners and much of the Badminton top ten heading to Stamford, there is plenty to unpack.

They dive into the Prediction Centre, the remarkable Burghley 1% Club, the combinations catching their eye and just what makes Derek di Grazia's cross-country track such a unique challenge.

Plus, Sam is heading there himself with Ballyneety Rocketman. He takes us inside his final preparations, how he gets a horse ready for Burghley's terrain and why this event still feels like the absolute pinnacle.

Highlights

• First reactions to the 2026 Burghley field
• Who could become the next first-time five-star winner?
• The Burghley 1% Club
• Sam's insight into tackling the terrain and making the time
• The combinations flying under the radar
• Sam and Ballyneety Rocketman's final preparations
• Nicole and Sam make their early winner picks

Guests

Nicole Brown is joined by Sam Watson, who brings both the EquiRatings numbers and a rider's perspective as he prepares to head to Burghley himself.