Abbas Khan became the first Indian showjumping athlete to be awarded the most prestigious Bharat Gaurav Award 2026. He was presented with the award at a distinguished ceremony held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand on Monday (August 31, 2026).
The award was presented by governor of Uttarakhand, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh in recognition of Abbas’s achievements in equestrian sport and his contribution towards representing India on the international showjumping stage.
At just 21 years of age, Abbas Khan has established himself as a promising young Indian equestrian athlete, in showjumping category, competing internationally and carrying the Indian flag across prestigious showjumping arenas abroad.
His journey reflects years of dedication, discipline and commitment to establishing a stronger presence for India in a highly competitive global sport.
The Bharat Gaurav Award recognizes individuals /organizations who have demonstrated exceptional excellence, public service and a sustained commitment to India’s progress. Recipients are selected through a rigorous nomination and evaluation process based on merit, integrity, leadership, and measurable societal impact.
Abbas Khan’s career combines elite sporting performance, sustained representation of India abroad, and growing international recognition as a rider and trainer. At 22, his nomination describes a 17-year journey in equestrian sport and identifies him as the youngest Indian rider to consistently compete and place at the prestigious 1.45m-1.50m international level.
He bagged 11 medals including seven gold at the Junior National Equestrian Championship 2015.
Over the past five years, Abbas Khan has represented India across seven European countries, competing from CSI1 through CSI4 and CSIU25-A level. His nomination records podium and top-ten finishes at elite venues, often while carrying India’s representation on the international stage.
