Horse Industry in Brazil

Brazil is home to approximately 5.7 million horses and other equids. Though many of these horses are members of native breeds, Thoroughbreds and other sporthorses have a prominence as well.

The most popular sport is show jumping, with its allure due in part to the triumphs of native Rodrigo Pessoa. In 2004, Pessoa, who is the son of world-renowned horseman Nelson Pessoa, claimed the gold medal in the individual show jumping competition at the Olympic Games.

The Thoroughbred industry in Brazil has grown steadily over the last several years, with several successful racehorses being exported and racing successfully in the United States and abroad. Siphon and Sandpit—each of whom has won a million dollars—are two examples. In addition to show jumping and racing, other equestrian sports have found legions of devotees. Dressage, endurance, three-day eventing, polo, reining, vaulting, and working cow events remain popular entertainments. Coupled with these pleasure horses are true working types that are considered essential tools on the numerous cattle ranches that dot the Brazilian landscape.