A Welsh Corgi called Hazel, owned by Nicki and Chris Blance from Essex, won the Pastoral Group on the first day of Crufts 2026, qualifying for one of just seven places in the Best in Show final this Sunday.
Hazel (Ch Penliath Bill Me Later (ai)) handled by Nicki Blance, will return to the bp pulse LIVE arena at the NEC Birmingham this Sunday, along with six other dogs to compete for the coveted Best in Show title at Crufts.
People around Britain and the world will be watching to see which dog is crowned Best in Show on Sunday, as the final is shown live on Channel 4 and available to be streamed on the official Crufts YouTube Channel.
Over 18,600 dogs are competing over four days for one of just seven places in the Crufts final and a chance to win the most celebrated title in the world of dogs.
Jannine Edgar, Chief Executive of the Royal Kennel Club said: “Congratulations to Hazel and Nicki on winning the Pastoral Group title and progressing to the Crufts 2026 Best in Show final. Crufts is all about showcasing dogs in peak condition and celebrating the unique partnership between dogs and handlers, which was beautifully reflected in their performance today.”
Crufts takes place from 5 - 8 March 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and results from the show, visit crufts.org.uk.