Stakeholders from across the jumping community came together October 14 at the newly-opened HRH Princess Haya Auditorium at the FEI headquarters in Lausanne to take part in highly engaging discussions focused on shaping the future of tack requirements in the sport.
Participants in the FEI Jumping stakeholders meeting on Tack and Equipment included athletes from all levels of the discipline, veterinarians, representatives of the International Jumping Officials Club (IJOC), International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC), the International Grooms Association (IGA), members of the FEI Eventing and Jumping Tack Advisory Groups and FEI Jumping Committee, FEI Board and Headquarters representatives as well as National Federation members from many countries.
During the meeting, which had a mixture of open and panel discussions, participants explored a wide range of challenges related to tack and equipment in Jumping, focusing on the balance between performance, safety, level playing field, and horse welfare.
Key topics included:
- Assessing the appropriate level of regulation of tack, including whether rules should vary by competition level or rider experience;
- Considering the overall quantity and combination of tack, and whether there should be restrictions or a list of acceptable combinations;
- Reviewing specific equipment, including hind boots and auxiliary reins, to assess whether current rules, controls, and education systems for officials are sufficient.
Overall, the discussions highlighted the community’s need for tack and equipment requirements that are clear, practical, and adaptable to the ever-evolving tack market, while also emphasising the importance of using tack safely and responsibly, ensuring fairness, and supporting rider development at every level.
“We were very pleased with today’s turnout and the constructive discussions and ideas shared,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said.
“Jumping is evolving, and our rules must evolve with it. When it comes to tack, we need a proactive framework that protects horse welfare, supports athletes, and ensures safety. Tack is integral to our sport; its correct use requires skill and understanding, and it is fundamental to both performance and welfare.
“The goal is not a ‘tack revolution,’ but an evolution guided by clarity and shared understanding. It’s about ensuring equipment is used safely and effectively. By reviewing and refining the FEI’s guidance on tack, we can move from a reactive stance to a forward-looking approach that strengthens the sport.
“This Forum is a key part of the FEI’s ongoing effort to engage the community in shaping practical, clear and trusted regulations. We are listening, and we see this as an important step in building mutual trust so that, together, we can shape the future of the discipline.”
The Forum also provided an opportunity to discuss a proposed rule change that will be submitted to National Federations ahead of the FEI General Assembly in Hong Kong in November. If approved, the change would allow the FEI to consolidate descriptions and principles related to tack and equipment from all Discipline Rules into a single, dedicated Tack & Equipment Requirements section, effective 1 January 2026. The proposal is seen as a significant step forward, enabling the FEI to respond more efficiently to developments in tack and equipment, rather than waiting a full year to update the rules.
For jumping, it is proposed to defer this transfer until 1 January 2027.
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