British jumping riders face a further Brexit headache which could seriously reduce their international participation and drop them down the Longines rankings.

The increased costs of around E2,500 (CAN$4,800) per cross-Channel trip and delays of many hours at French border control have been well documented since Brexit took effect on January 1. On top of that, as non-European Union (EU) citizens, Brits are now subject to the Schengen Agreement which limits stays in Europe to 90-days in every 180-day period. Unused days cannot be rolled over, and overstaying can result in heavy fines.

Some riders have consulted specialist immigration lawyers while others are considering permanent relocation, fearing their normal competition schedule is now unsustainable. Many jumpers, including amateur riders, spend January through March on the Mediterranean “sunshine” circuit alone.

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