The World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala, Florida, has announced a significant expansion of its dressage competition schedule for 2025, marking a milestone for the venue and the broader equestrian community.
With an increase to seven international dressage events, including two prestigious CDI4* competitions, the WEC is set to become a central hub for the sport, challenging the dominance of Wellington’s Global Dressage Festival.
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 17-20, 2024 | CDI-W World Cup | TerraNova, Myakka City |
| November 13-17, 2024 | CDI3* | WEC, Ocala |
| December 11-15, 2024 | CDI-W World Cup | WEC, Ocala |
| January 8-12, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | GDF, Wellington |
| January 22-26, 2025 | CDI4* | GDF, Wellington |
| January 29-February 2, 2025 | CDI3* | WEC, Ocala |
| February 5-9, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | GDF, Wellington |
| February 12-16, 2025 | CDI3* | WEC, Ocala |
| February 19-23, 2025 | CDIO3* Nations Cup | GDF, Wellington |
| February 26-March 2, 2025 | Palm Beach Derby CDI-W World Cup | GDF, Wellington |
| March 5-9, 2025 | CDI4* | WEC, Ocala |
| March 12-16, 2025 | CDI5* | Wellington International, GDF, Wellington |
| March 26-30, 2025 | CDI4* | GDF, Wellington |
| April 3-6, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | TerraNova, Myakka City |
| April 9-13, 2025 | CDI4* | WEC, Ocala |
| May 1-4, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | TerraNova, Myakka City |
| May 21-25, 2025 | CDI3* | WEC, Ocala |
| November 12-16, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | WEC, Ocala |
| December 10-14, 2025 | CDI-W World Cup | WEC, Ocala |
A new era for Ocala's World Equestrian Center
For the first time, the World Equestrian Center will host four major dressage events during Florida's winter circuit, an addition that places Ocala in direct competition with the well-established Global Dressage Festival (GDF) in Wellington.
The WEC's expanded lineup now includes two CDI4* competitions, three CDI3* events, and two World Cup qualifiers scheduled for late 2025. These additions are crucial as they will serve as qualifying events for the 2026 World Cup Finals in Fort Worth, Texas.
This ambitious schedule reflects WEC's growing prominence in the equestrian world. The facility has undergone significant enhancements, including the addition of a dedicated dressage area featuring an indoor arena, the opening of a second hotel, an increase in retail shopping options, and the expansion of essential services such as the on-site University of Florida Veterinary Hospital.
Transforming Florida’s dressage circuit
The WEC’s 2025 dressage schedule will span eight months, from January to December, effectively extending Florida's traditional winter circuit. This expansion includes 17 events across three key venues: Ocala’s WEC, Wellington’s GDF, and TerraNova Equestrian Center on Florida's west coast. Notably, the WEC's enhanced offerings represent a significant increase from the five CDIs held in both 2022 and 2023, and a dramatic growth from just three events in its inaugural year of 2021.
A closer look at the 2025 competition calendar
Below is a breakdown of the 2025 dressage competition schedule at the World Equestrian Center:
- January 29-February 2: CDI3*
- February 12-16: CDI3*
- March 5-9: CDI4*
- April 9-13: CDI4*
- May 21-25: CDI3*
- November 12-16: CDI-W World Cup Qualifier
- December 10-14: CDI-W World Cup Qualifier
This expansion is expected to draw increased participation from both domestic and international competitors, as the WEC continues to solidify its reputation as a premier venue for high-caliber equestrian events.
Other key events in Florida’s 2025 dressage season
Wellington’s Global Dressage Festival remains a significant player in the circuit, with its 2025 calendar featuring seven major competitions, including the prestigious CDI5* event at Wellington International and the Palm Beach Derby CDI-W World Cup. Meanwhile, TerraNova Equestrian Center will host two World Cup qualifiers, further diversifying the competition landscape in Florida.
The future of dressage in Florida
The expansion of the WEC’s dressage schedule is poised to redefine the sport in Florida. With top-tier facilities, a commitment to growth, and a strategic location, the World Equestrian Center is not only elevating Ocala’s status within the global dressage community but also contributing to the overall development of equestrian sports in the region.
As these events unfold, competitors and spectators alike can look forward to a vibrant and competitive season that will showcase some of the best talents in the world of dressage, while also highlighting the World Equestrian Center’s role as a leading venue in the sport.
