FEI Bans Russian, Belarusian Horses, Athletes And Officials

Following the Fédération Equestre Internationale’s decision Monday to remove all international equestrian events in Russia and Belarus from the FEI calendar, the FEI board on Wednesday announced an emergency resolution that will prohibit the participation of all Russian and Belarusian athletes, horses and officials in international events.

Further to the Feb. 28 recommendation of the International Olympic Committee, the FEI board voted to prohibit Russian and Belarusian athletes, horses and officials from participating in FEI events until further notice; exclude the possibility of Russian and Belarusian athletes (equine and human) and officials from participating in FEI events under the FEI flag and/or in a neutral capacity.

The prohibition goes into effect on Sunday, March 6, so that FEI events already in progress, or about to start, are not unduly disrupted.

The resolution also prohibits, with immediate effect, the display of Russian and Belarusian flags, or their anthems played at, or in connection with, any FEI events.

The FEI board also condemned the invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces and the support provided by the government of Belarus.

“It is regrettable that the FEI has needed to take such severe measures, but we need to ensure the safety, integrity and fairness of FEI competitions during these difficult times,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said “We sincerely hope that a peaceful solution can be found as soon as possible.”