Dressage riders have failed a second time to persuade the FEI to allow top hats to be worn at major shows.
Despite formal proposals from stakeholder groups and the European Equestrian Federation, the FEI has decided the multi-discipline, pro-helmet vote of the 2019 General Assembly (GA) will stand. It will not offer the chance for a u-turn at the 2021 GA next month.
Fans of the top hat suggest it should be allowed for over-25s only, at 4* and 5* level shows, major championships and the Olympic Games. It would be worn during the test only by those who prefer it, with the safety helmet worn at all other times including prize-givings.
The top hat ban was deferred until the start of 2021 ‒ in eventing it applied immediately ‒ reportedly to enable suppliers to adjust to the change. Its imminent demise seemed to catch riders by surprise last fall, when over 150 grand prix riders hastily signed a petition requesting a re-think. Notable non-signatories included Jacquie Brooks and Charlotte Dujardin, both long-term advocates of head safety. But the petitioners, led by Isabell Werth, missed the deadline for representations over rule changes due to apply from January 2021.
This time the pro-top-hat lobby acted promptly during the current rules revision session, securing high-level support. The FEI’s own dressage committee came out in favour of freedom of choice, though not unanimously. The FEI medical committee remains firmly against, as does the FEI board.
It is highly unusual for the FEI to ask its GA to reverse any major policy decision, especially in the areas of welfare and safety.
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