Inside Kentucky: Cross Country Preview

Diarmuid Byrne, Annie Bishop, and Spike the Vet live on Friday night, as dressage wraps up and the leaderboard looks wide open going into cross-country day. With no dominant force in the field, up to 12 combinations could still win - from the leading Kiwis to Tom McEwen and the strength in depth just behind.

They break down a more intense cross-country track, a tighter time, and why the winning score could land around 30 - setting up a Sunday where everything could change.

Check out the Defender Kentucky Fan Guide: https://equiratings.info/kentucky5l2026

Highlights

• Friday Night Lights: live from Kentucky
• Why this is one of the most open five-stars in years
• Up to 12 contenders heading into cross-country
• The Kiwi leaders — and the pressure to finish
• Cross-country demands and time pressure
• Why Sunday could see a major shake-up

Guests
Diarmuid Byrne, Annie Bishop, Spike the Vet

EquiRatings Eventing Podcast
Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast for more data-led insight, top-tier guests, and everything you need to keep up with the 2026 season on Instagram and Facebook.