The Swiss Equestrian Federation FSSE, which has committed itself for over two years, so that competing in endurance events all over the world are in compliance with not only the welfare of the horse but also sporting fairness, has taken note with satisfaction, of the decision made by the Bureau of the International Equestrian Federation FEI to suspend the National Federation of the United Arab Emirates UAE for an indeterminate period, following serious cases of horse abuse and non-compliance with FEI rules and regulations within this discipline (press release of the FEI).

Having taken this decision, the Bureau of the FEI and its new President demonstrate courage and send a strong message in favor of the welfare of horses to all member federations. The FSSE gives its full support in this matter.

In light of this suspension, the FSSE has decided to further reinforce the measures it announced last February 24th (press release of the Swiss Equestrian Federation) by prohibiting its riders as well as its endurance officials to participate in any endurance competition in the UAE for as long as this federation is suspended by the FEI.

Furthermore, it reiterates its strong reservations about the holding of the World Endurance Championship planned in Dubai in 2016. The FSSE will pay close attention to the developments of this current situation before considering whether to participate in the championships or not.

Additional Information:

Dr. Charles F. Trolliet, President of the Swiss Equestrian Federation, 
Tel. +41 79 205 32 91, e-mail: trolliet@swissonline.ch

Dr. Claude Nordmann, International Relations, Swiss Equestrian Federation, 
Tel. +41 79 353 75 54, e-mail: claude.nordmann@bluewin.ch