On March 19, 2026, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), rendered an arbitral award in the case between the International Eventing Officials Club (IEOC) and the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI).
The CAS determined that the FEI breached Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the IEOC and failed to adequately consult the IEOC on the Eventing Education System.
In its decision, the CAS ordered the FEI to remedy this breach by engaging with the IEOC in a good faith consultation within six months. This consultation must ensure the IEOC is provided with a “genuine opportunity” to be heard on matters relating to the Eventing Education System that were raised prior to the FEI’s termination of the MoU.
Additional findings include:
- The FEI was not entitled to terminate the MoU with immediate effect on 29 February 2024, therefore the MoU only came to an end on 29 August 2024, in accordance with the terms of the agreement between the parties.
- No further breaches of the MoU were committed by the FEI.
This decision brings to an end the longstanding dispute regarding the FEI’s failure to properly consult the IEOC on the Eventing Education System. The IEOC acknowledges the CAS ruling and views this as an opportunity to re-establish constructive dialogue with the FEI. It remains committed to fostering collaboration and ensuring that eventing officials are meaningfully consulted.
Andy Griffiths, Chair of the IEOC, said, “We welcome the CAS ruling and see it as an opportunity to rebuild a constructive and collegiate relationship with the FEI and other stakeholders. Throughout this process, our priority has always been to ensure that the voices of eventing officials are heard and respected in decisions affecting the governance of our sport.
“As we move forward, we are committed to fostering collaboration with the FEI while continuing to advocate fair and transparent decision-making that supports the sustainable governance of eventing.”
Looking ahead, the IEOC will continue to engage constructively with all stakeholders, working towards a shared goal of safeguarding and enhancing the sport for officials, athletes, and the wider eventing community.
More News
