Carsten Sostmeier announces retirement from World Championship commentary

Longtime equestrian commentator Carsten Sostmeier has announced his retirement from World Championship coverage following the event in Aachen. The 66-year-old WDR commentator, known for his descriptive style, has covered nine World Championships and decided not to pursue a tenth to avoid being 70 years old at that time.

The conclusion of the World Championships also marked the end of reporter Sabine Hartelt’s career. During the closing ceremony, Sostmeier became visibly emotional while announcing Hartelt’s departure from the camera. Hartelt, whose journalism career began at age 14, has covered various major events including the Olympic Games and the first women’s football World Cup in 1991.