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We would like to issue a correction to a sentence included in our previous communication.
The sentence should have read: "This action comes as an independent investigation has been conducted following a situation involving Mr. Kessler."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wellington International Announces Leadership Transition
President Michael Stone, an experienced leader in premier equestrian sport operations, assumes executive oversight of the world-class competition venue
Wellington, Fla. – March 27, 2026 — Wellington International today announced the termination of Murray Kessler from Equestrian Sports Production, LLC and its affiliated entities, as well as from the management committee of Wellington Lifestyle Partners, effective immediately.
| This action comes as an independent investigation has been conducted following a situation involving Mr. Kessler. Upon learning of the matter, the organization acted immediately to support the employee who brought it forward. Consistent with company policies, steps were taken to ensure their safety and well-being. Following notification of the incident, the company initiated an independent investigation within 24 hours, demonstrating its commitment to a thorough and objective review. Any reports or suggestions to the contrary are inaccurate. Today’s announcement underscores Wellington International’s commitment to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This matter continues to be handled thoughtfully and responsibly, with the best interests of our team, patrons and community at heart. | As the organization moves forward, it does so with experienced leadership and a continued focus on stability and excellence. Michael Stone, President of Wellington International, will assume executive oversight of operations. Stone has led Wellington International for nearly two decades. In this expanded role, he continues to oversee management of the premier equestrian competition venue in Wellington, Florida. He serves as a key liaison to both the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), reinforcing the organization’s superior reputation across the sport’s governing bodies. | Under Stone’s leadership, Wellington International has grown into one of the world’s premier equestrian venues, hosting 40 weeks of competition annually, including the Winter Equestrian Festival—an event that in 2025 generated more than $500 million in economic impact for Palm Beach County. Stone’s broader industry experience includes serving as sports director for the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon, as well as more than a decade of service with FEI in Lausanne, where he held senior roles including secretary general and sports director. A former international show jumping competitor for Ireland, he also remains deeply engaged in the sport through USEF committee work, the FEI Jumping Committee, and as a board member of the International Jumping Organizers group. | |
“I am honored to continue leading our exceptional venue and team,” said Stone. “I look forward to further strengthening our legacy alongside a best-in-class team whose talent and dedication define Wellington International as one of the world’s leading equestrian venues.”
Media inquiries should be directed to Lindsay Brock, Press Officer at press@wellingtoninternational.com.
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About Wellington International
Wellington International, located in the heart of Wellington, Florida, is a global leader in equestrian sport and home to over 40 weeks of competition each year, including the renowned Winter Equestrian Festival and Global Dressage Festival. A designated Rolex property since 2012, Wellington International has showcased world-class competition since 1974, making the Winter Equestrian Festival the world’s largest and longest-running hunter/jumper horse show. Beyond sport, the venue generates more than $536 million annually for Palm Beach County’s economy and supports over 4,000 jobs. Wellington International is a wholly owned subsidiary of the real estate development and hospitality management company Wellington Lifestyle Partners (WLP). Learn more at www.wellingtoninternational.com.
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USEF Safe Sport Policies
Please be reminded that you are bound by the U.S. Center for SafeSport Code, USEF Safe Sport Policy, and Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies, also known as the MAAPP. This includes the SafeSport Training requirement for adult members and participants who have regular contact with or authority over minor athletes. Additionally, please be reminded about reporting obligations. Any concerns that are non-sexual in nature, please use the USEF Safe Sport Incident Reporting Form available on the USEF website. Concerns or suspicions regarding sexual misconduct must be reported to https://safesport.i-sight.com/portal and the authorities if a minor is involved. All of this information can be found in the USEF Safe Sport Policy.
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Wellington International is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wellington Lifestyle Partners (WLP).
WLP is committed to ensuring the Village of Wellington remains the premier horse sport destination in the world for generations to come.
| To learn more about WLP, visit wlpfl.com | | | | |
