Karabakh horses win ovations in Azerbaijan’s cultural showcase at Royal Windsor show VIDEO

One of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious equestrian events, the Royal Windsor Horse Show 2025, opened with a spectacular display this week, and for the first time in its history, Azerbaijan is participating with a delegation of exceptional scale and cultural presence.

According to Azerbaijan’s State Border Service, the Azerbaijani delegation includes 130 participants, marking the country’s most extensive representation at the Windsor Show to date, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

This participation has been made possible through the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the coordination of the Azerbaijan Equestrian Federation.

A major highlight of the event was the dazzling cultural and equestrian performance titled “Azerbaijan – Land of Fire”, which captivated British audiences with its fusion of vibrant national dances, evocative music, and the majestic presence of Karabakh horses. The unique presentation was praised for bringing a new and dynamic dimension to the historic equestrian festival.

The performance featured the dance ensemble and cavalry unit of the Azerbaijani State Border Service, accompanied by 20 Karabakh horses, a breed deeply tied to Azerbaijani heritage. Their performance earned enthusiastic applause and admiration from the audience.

The entire production was artistically led by Honoured Artist Govkhar Hasanzadeh. Stage direction and choreography were managed by Honoured Artist Farid Ibrahimov. The cavalry performance was prepared under the guidance of Chief Instructor Imran Ahmadli, while the music was performed by the Exemplary Military Orchestra under the direction of Honoured Artist Samed Vakilov.

The audience at Windsor was enthralled by the 20-minute presentation, which seamlessly blended equestrian displays with the powerful sounds of Azerbaijani national music. Highlights included iconic compositions such as “Yallı" and “Qaytağı” by maestro Niyazi, “İncə bellim” by Emin Sabitoglu, and Muslim Magomayev’s celebrated anthem “Azerbaijan.” All pieces were performed live on traditional Azerbaijani instruments, further enhancing the authenticity and emotional resonance of the performance.

The spirited dances of the Sərhədçi ensemble and the precise, synchronised movements of the Karabakh horse riders added a dramatic flair to the show. A climactic moment saw Azerbaijani cavalrymen unfurl the national flags of Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom mid-performance—an act that brought the crowd to its feet in thunderous applause.

Following the performance, an official reception was held at Windsor Castle. During the evening, Honoured Artists Afag Abbasova and Saadat Ismayilova charmed the audience with their refined and expressive piano performances, offering a fitting cultural finale to the day’s events.

Azerbaijan’s participation in the Royal Windsor Horse Show will continue through May 18. On May 17, the Azerbaijani Land of Fire polo team is scheduled to take part in the show, further highlighting the nation’s equestrian excellence on the international stage.

By Tamilla Hasanova