The International Jumping Riders Club since 1977 is the voice of the showjumping riders from around the world.
International Jumping Riders Club
Final Session of Day 1 at the FEI Sports Forum Focuses on Rule Revisions
The final session of Day 1 focused on the proposed revisions to the FEI Jumping Rules, was introduced by FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde (AUS) to gather feedback from stakeholders.
IJRC President François Mathy Jr (BEL) was in the panel together with: FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde (AUS), Chair of the FEI Jumping Committee Stephan Ellenbruch (GER), Swedish Chef d’Équipe Henrik Ankarcrona (SWE); PAEC President, FEI Judge Level 4 and FEI Steward Level 4 Cesar Hirsch (VEN); and Organiser of Jumping Amsterdam Irene Verheul (NED). The discussion was moderated by Chair of the FEI Athletes Committee, Jessica Kürten (IRL)
The aim of the discussion was to make the rulebook clearer and easier to navigate, without changing the substance or weakening the rules. To ensure consistency across all rulebooks and to support the revision process, the FEI brought in external expertise, the sports lawyer Lauren Page.
The key points of discussion were:
- the rules around blood on the hors's flank (need to review the rule’s sanctions to achieve a more proportionate approach. Proposals include: shifting from immediate elimination to a graduated system, starting with a warning, followed by a yellow card, and potentially a suspension for repeat or severe offences, involving veterinary checks and clearer protocols for less experienced stewards)
- hours of rest (difficult to balance a high-quality sports programme with the welfare of horses and the working conditions for grooms. Proposed solutions: to create a more compact schedule, enforcing strict finish times)
- special competitions (there is a need to assess whether these events are still relevant and align with the sport's current direction and the core principles of Jumping)
- young horses (The discussion focused on the proper development of young horses, emphasising that training and education should take precedence over competitive exposure)
- Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) for star-level events (the question is: Should we be including an MER to compete at Star Level events?)
See Session 4 Presentation here
Image at the top: Francois Mathy Jr (BEL) – IJRC President ©FEI/Germain Arias-Schreiber
Source: FEI Website