Athina Onassis, granddaughter of Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, has reportedly acquired an internationally experienced show-jumping horse for approximately €1.2 million, expanding her involvement in equestrian sport amid an ongoing business dispute over a multimillion-euro investment.
According to Greek television reports and Harper’s Bazaar Greece, Onassis purchased Cossinelle, a 13-year-old Holsteiner mare previously owned by Ukrainian businessman Sergiy Demchenko. The ownership transfer was registered with the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) on October 2, 2026.
Experienced horse joins Onassis’ stable
Cossinelle has competed internationally under Austrian rider Felix Koller, including at the 2026 World Championships in Aachen, Germany. FEI records list more than 130 competition starts and two victories.
The acquisition has already been followed by competitive appearances. FEI records show Onassis riding Cossinelle at San Giovanni in Marignano, Italy, from October 22 to 24. The purchase adds to Onassis’ longstanding involvement in show jumping, a sport in which she has competed internationally for many years.
A lifelong passion for horses and international competition
For Athina Onassis, equestrian sport has long represented much more than a recreational activity. Introduced to horseback riding during childhood, she developed a serious interest in show jumping and eventually began competing internationally.
Despite the intense public attention surrounding her family name and inheritance, Onassis has consistently maintained a relatively private lifestyle, with much of her public activity connected to horses and equestrian competitions.
Over the years, she has participated in international events and developed professional relationships within the show-jumping community. Her involvement has included competing against established international riders and investing considerable time in training and horse development.
She has also been closely associated with the Athina Onassis Horse Show, an international equestrian event that has brought together prominent competitors from around the world. The competition has helped reinforce her connection to the sport beyond her own appearances in the arena.
The acquisition of Cossinelle adds another chapter to that longstanding involvement. By selecting a mature horse with international experience, Onassis gains a potential competitive partner whose performance history provides a foundation for further development.
At 13, Cossinelle brings experience rather than the uncertainty associated with an emerging young prospect. Her future competitive opportunities will depend on her physical condition, continued training and the partnership she develops with Onassis.
The purchase also demonstrates the financial commitments involved in elite show jumping, where experienced competition horses can command substantial prices because of their proven abilities and international records.
For Onassis, whose name has been associated with some of the world’s most prominent equestrian events, the latest acquisition represents a continuation of a sporting commitment that has endured throughout her adult life.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
