FEI discusses comprehensive reform of show jumping rules - focus on animal welfare and fairness
Central topics: Blood rule, rest periods, young horses and qualification standards
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As part of the fourth meeting on the revision of the FEI Show Jumping Rulebook, Show Jumping Director Todd Hinde presented the next steps in the reform process. The FEI is being supported by the law firm Bird & Bird in order to legally secure the complex process. The revision is not aimed at radical changes, but at a clearer and more practical structure of the existing rules.
The discussion led by Jessica Kürten focused on the so-called blood rule (Article 241.3), rest periods for horses and grooms, the handling of special competitions as well as standards for young horses and minimum qualifications (MERs) at shows. Article 241.3 in particular is to be applied in a more differentiated manner in future: Instead of automatic disqualification, graduated sanctions such as warnings and yellow cards could be introduced.
With regard to rest periods, representatives such as the International Grooms Association called for a sustainable solution for fairer working conditions. The relevance of classic special competitions was also questioned. When promoting young horses, it was emphasized that training must take precedence over early pressure to succeed.
Proposals for a system of minimum requirements and licenses were also discussed in order to ensure safe participation in top-class competitions. The meeting highlighted the broad consensus that long-term improvements can only be achieved through close cooperation between all stakeholders.