Today marks the end of the 126th edition of Fieracavalli, the must-attend international event for the equestrian world, which drew curious visitors, passionate horse lovers, and numerous celebrity figures, each one a dedicated fan of the horse—the undisputed star of the event.
One such guest was TikTok star and content creator Mattia Stanga, who attended to support his sister, a promising young rider competing at the event. Stanga explored the exhibition halls, admiring horses, performances, and shows, and even stepped onto the field on Saturday to present the awards for the 126th Fieracavalli Grand Prix Silver Category, where his sister Giulia was among the winners. “When asked about my biggest dream, I always say it’s to see my sister compete at the Olympics. Following her journey, I’ve grown passionate about the equestrian world, so much so that, despite my allergies that require a lot of antihistamines, I got convinced to ride for the first time.”
Friday’s Crazy Horse Day, Fieracavalli’s new format that merges international sport with entertainment, featured artists Wayne, Dile, Sarah Toscano, and Nesli, who performed their biggest hits at Pala Jumping Verona, including “Cambiare Adesso,” “La Fine,” “Sexy Magica,” and “Carnevale.” Dile shared that his first experience on horseback was as a child: “Despite some fear of the height, I remember the wonder of that moment, and I can confirm that ‘first times’ bring unique emotions.” Nesli, who already felt connected to the horse world thanks to a friend who runs a stable, remarked, “I’ve always admired the equestrian world and got closer to it when I had the chance to film a video and take photos on horseback. It was intense.” For Sarah, it’s a family connection: “This isn’t my first time at Fieracavalli. With my sister as a rider, it’s always been natural for me and my family to stop by Verona.”
This year, the “horsetainment” extended beyond the fairgrounds to the Gallerie Mercatali with a unique Crazy Horse Night featuring Sven Väth, a pioneer in techno music. His set, blending experimental sounds influenced by hip hop, disco, and acid house, with hypnotic minimalist grooves, brought his iconic style to Verona for an unforgettable night.
Fieracavalli 2024 offered countless opportunities to meet celebrity fans of the equestrian world, starting with the premiere of the Gala D’Oro Pathos. The Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forestry (MASAF) joined the Verona showcase and host Veronica Maya to present special awards to individuals who have significantly contributed to the industry. Among them were actress and horse racing ambassador Roberta Giarrusso, who accompanied all stages of the Palio delle Regioni, former soccer star Zibì Boniek, now a gentleman rider, and Sara Morganti, a champion para-equestrian who won two medals at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. As Morganti put it, “Sport is a tremendous source of motivation that teaches us to overcome life’s daily challenges.”
American riding enthusiast Clemente Russo also attended, marking his sixth year at Fieracavalli. “My passion started young, when I would sneak into the stables in my hometown to ride. Now, when I’m stressed, I ride bareback for the sense of freedom and renewal it gives me.”
On Saturday and Sunday, the Gala D’Oro and today’s Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Grand Prix presented by Kask drew additional celebrity guests, including former Italian and Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli, model and influencer Taylor Mega, actress and former Miss Italy Francesca Chillemi, Lavinia Fuksas, daughter of the renowned architect, and RTL 102.5 speaker Virginia Tschang. Returning as a familiar face at the event was Gessica Notaro, who took on a new role as the Artistic Director of her debut show, Musical Equestre.
