Hugo, 1.99 m at the withers, crowned the world’s tallest living horse

At 1.99 m at the withers, Hugo now surpasses all officially measured living horses. This four-year-old Shire, raised in Towcester, Northamptonshire, England, is listed in the 2027 edition of the Guinness World Records as the tallest living horse.

The measurement was conducted by a veterinarian on December 2, 2025, without shoes, in accordance with the approval protocol. This height corresponds to 6 feet and 6.3 inches. The announcement was widely shared this week during the presentation of the new record holders for the 2027 edition.

However, this title does not make Hugo the tallest horse in history. That record remains with Sampson, also an English Shire, who was measured at nearly 2.20 m in 1850. Hugo succeeds Big Jake, a 2.10 m tall American Belgian horse, who passed away in 2021, in the category of living horses.

His owner explains that the animal could still grow for several more years. When he discovered Hugo at 18 months old, he had no idea he would reach such an exceptional height. The horse currently receives regular veterinary care, massages, and a diet tailored to support his growth.

The Shire is a British breed of draft horse developed for agricultural work and transporting heavy loads. Its average size is significantly smaller than Hugo’s, although the breed has produced several recorded giants. In Towcester, the new record holder also participates in local events, where his stature attracts visitors.