In light of recent reports in various media outlets, the Holsteiner Verband wishes to clarify a number of points regarding the current situation at the Elmshorn site.

In particular, there appears to be a need for clarification regarding ownership: the land on which the indoor riding arenas, the Fritz-Thiedemann Hall, the stables, the stud farm and the office buildings are situated is owned by the Holsteiner Verband.

The lease agreement with the town of Elmshorn relates exclusively to the plots of land designated as the ‘racecourse’, insofar as these are not already owned by the Association. These areas have been made available to the Holsteiner Verband for use in accordance with its statutory objectives, in particular for horse breeding, the horse trade and equestrian sports. The preamble to the agreement expressly sets out the mutual intention of the contracting parties to maintain the lease for as long as the Holsteiner Verband operates at this site.

“It is important to us to present the existing ownership and usage arrangements transparently. Current media coverage must not give the impression that the use of the association’s own land and buildings is affected by the provisions of the lease agreement. These are two separate and unrelated matters,” clarifies Stephan Haarhoff, Managing Director of the Breeding Association and Head of Breeding.

Elmshorn is currently a key location for the work of the Holsteiner Verband, particularly in the areas of horse breeding, marketing and sport. The existing structures and facilities on site form an essential foundation for the association’s work.