The FEI General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a restructure of the FEI Jumping Rules, with 96% of National Federations voting in favour. The new rules will come into effect on 1 January 2026 and introduce significant welfare enhancements for competition horses.

Central to the changes is the approval of Article 259 on Jumping Recorded Warnings, which National Federations recognised as a meaningful step forward in protecting horse welfare. The new article introduces mandatory fitness-to-compete checks by the Ground Jury, working alongside the Veterinary Delegate, in all cases where blood is present. Horses will only be permitted to continue competing if they pass this veterinary assessment.

The restructured rules aim to bring greater clarity and consistency for FEI Officials by removing the previous “minor” distinction, which should ensure more objective decision-making. Transparency has also been boosted, with all Jumping Recorded Warnings now published by the FEI. National Federations will receive automatic notifications when their athletes receive warnings, enabling them to monitor cases more effectively and decide whether additional welfare checks or measures are needed.

Importantly, several existing rules remain unchanged. Mandatory disqualification for excessive use of spurs continues, as do the Abuse of Horse provisions and the possibility of opening separate disciplinary proceedings to impose additional sanctions.

FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibanez acknowledged the constructive discussions that took place throughout the week, thanking National Federations for their engagement. “Despite differing opinions, we were able to gain a clearer understanding of each other’s positions and were also able to clarify several misunderstandings and misconceptions,” she said.

Ibanez recognised that the approval was not unanimous and noted requests from several National Federations for a more harmonised approach to the topic across all equestrian disciplines. “We are committed to looking into this,” she confirmed. “We will take a structured, evidence-based approach grounded in thorough consultation and driven by data.”

She added that the FEI’s ongoing projects will play a key role in supporting accurate data recording and advancing safety and welfare through rigorous, evidence-based measures. “We acknowledge that a number of National Federations voted against the proposal. While their reasons may vary, we take this outcome seriously and are committed to examining it carefully to better understand the concerns and address them as we move forward.”

The Fédération Equestre Internationale is the world governing body for horse sport, recognised by the International Olympic Committee. Founded in 1921, the FEI is the sole controlling authority for all international events in the Olympic disciplines of Jumping, Dressage and Eventing, as well as Driving, Endurance and Vaulting. It also governs Para Dressage and Para Driving.