Nicola Wilson is widely recognized as one of Great Britain’s most resilient and successful equestrian athletes.
A silver medalist at the London 2012 Olympics and a reigning European champion before her retirement, she has inspired thousands with her transition from elite competitor to mentor following a life-changing accident.
In this article, you will know Nicola Wilson’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Nicola Wilson’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicola Wilson (née Tweddle) |
| Date of Birth | October 1, 1976 |
| Age | 49 |
| Education | Manchester University (Degree in Sport and Business Management) |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in) |
| Weight | Approx. 60 kg |
| Turned Pro | Late 1990s |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1.5 Million – $3 Million (Estimated) |
| Career Earnings | Undisclosed (Prize money & horse sales) |
| Husband | Alastair Wilson |
| Children | None |
| Instagram Profile | @nicolawilsonequestrian |
| Twitter Profile | @NicolaWilsonEv |
Early Life
Nicola Wilson grew up in North Yorkshire, surrounded by the equestrian world from day one. Her mother, Mary Tweddle, was deeply involved in horses, which gave Nicola a natural start in the saddle.
She spent her formative years with the Hurworth Pony Club, where she learned the grit and discipline required for eventing. Unlike many who rush straight into professional riding, Nicola balanced her passion with education.
She attended Manchester University, where she graduated with a degree in Sport and Business Management in 1999.
It was during these university years that she partnered with a horse named Mr. Bumble. Her mother had bought the horse as a youngster, and together, Nicola and Mr. Bumble rose through the ranks.
They moved from local pony club rallies to competing at the prestigious Burghley Horse Trials, marking the beginning of her journey toward the international stage.
Professional Career
Nicola Wilson’s professional career is defined by her partnership with the legendary horse Opposition Buzz. Known for his incredible cross-country speed and reliability, he was the horse that catapulted her into the British senior squad.
Her crowning moment came at the London 2012 Olympics, where she helped Team GB secure a silver medal on home soil. She became a reliable “pathfinder” for the British team, often going first on cross-country day to set the standard for her teammates.
Her success continued well beyond 2012. She claimed team gold at the 2010 World Equestrian Games and multiple medals at European Championships, including a stunning individual gold at the 2021 Europeans aboard JL Dublin.
However, her competitive career came to an abrupt halt in May 2022 following a severe fall at the Badminton Horse Trials. The accident resulted in significant spinal injuries, forcing her to retire from elite competition.
Since then, she has reinvented herself as a high-performance coach and mentor, earning an MBE in the 2025 New Year Honours list for her services to the sport.
Husband
Nicola has been married to Alastair Wilson since 2006. Alastair is not just a supportive partner but an integral part of her equestrian business. He has been by her side through the highs of Olympic podiums and the lows of her rehabilitation after the Badminton fall.
The couple does not have any children. They have dedicated their lives to their horses and the management of their competition yard in Northallerton.
Alastair gained significant attention in recent years for his charity work, including cycling challenges to raise money for the British Eventing Support Trust and spinal research, inspired by Nicola’s recovery journey.
Nicola Wilson’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Nicola Wilson’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $3 million.
Career Earnings
| Year | Major Achievement | Estimated Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | World Equestrian Games (Team Gold) | High (funding & sponsorship bonuses) |
| 2012 | London Olympics (Team Silver) | Peak (UK Sport funding & increased profile) |
| 2017 | European Championships (Team Gold/Ind Bronze) | High (Prize money & horse value increase) |
| 2021 | European Championships (Individual Gold) | Peak (Major title win & coaching demand) |
| 2023-2026 | Coaching & Mentoring | Stable (Seminars, private coaching, media work) |
Career Stats
| Year | Event | Horse | Medal/Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | European Championships | Opposition Buzz | Team Gold |
| 2010 | World Equestrian Games | Opposition Buzz | Team Gold |
| 2011 | European Championships | Opposition Buzz | Team Bronze |
| 2012 | London Olympic Games | Opposition Buzz | Team Silver |
| 2015 | European Championships | One Two Many | Team Silver |
| 2017 | European Championships | Bulana | Team Gold / Individual Bronze |
| 2021 | European Championships | JL Dublin | Team Gold / Individual Gold |
FAQs
1. Is Nicola Wilson still competing in eventing?
No, Nicola Wilson retired from elite eventing following a serious fall at the Badminton Horse Trials in May 2022. She now focuses on coaching and mentoring other riders.
2. Who is Nicola Wilson’s husband?
Nicola Wilson is married to Alastair Wilson. He is a key part of her support team and runs their equestrian yard in North Yorkshire alongside her.
3. Did Nicola Wilson win an Olympic medal?
Yes, Nicola Wilson won a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games. She was part of the British Eventing team riding her famous horse, Opposition Buzz.
4. How much is Nicola Wilson worth?
Nicola Wilson’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $3 million. This wealth comes from her long career, horse sales, and her current coaching business.
5. Does Nicola Wilson have any children?
No, Nicola Wilson and her husband Alastair do not have any children. They have devoted their lives to their horses and their equestrian career.
