IJRC has a busy agenda during FEI Sport Forum. FEI

The International Jumping Riders Club is actively participating in the FEI Sport Forum in Lausanne from 29-30 April. Their objective is to seize every chance to engage with key stakeholders and ensure that the perspectives of their members are fully represented across the diverse range of topics under discussion.

The Sport Forum doesn't have to vote on new regulations but serves as a platform to gain insight into proposed changes for 2025, as the 2022 forum served for proposals to Paris 2024, before they undergo consultation with national federations and stakeholders. It offers a chance to interact with key figures from various departments within the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), including jumping, legal, and veterinary, providing valuable networking opportunities and fostering collaboration.

The International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) will have its president, Francois Mathy Jr, along with director Eleonora Ottaviani, veterinary advisor Stéphane Montavon, and team members Laura Borromeo and Beatrice Ottaviani in attendance. They will represent the organisation at the event.

During their time in Lausanne, the IJRC's Longines rankings working group will meet separately with FEI President Ingmar de Vos, Stephan Ellenbruch, and FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde. They aim to ensure fairness for young riders and emerging riders at a disadvantage, ensuring they receive well-deserved 5* invitations based on their performance merit.

They will meet also with CSI organisers to address excessive costs for riders and owners, distinguishing between essential expenses and what they term 'fantasy costs.'

During their visit, the IJRC will engage with the International Grooms Association and join a European Equestrian Federation board meeting. A key highlight is the FEI's Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission presentation, crucial for addressing public perceptions of elite sport horse care within the context of the Social License to Operate challenge.

Organisers across disciplines are hesitant to host FEI championships, a topic of urgent discussion to find solutions. Aachen is the sole applicant for the 2026 world jumping championships, while no venue has applied for next year's senior European championships in jumping, eventing, and para-dressage according to the FEI's bid platform.

The Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medications rulebook is up for full revision this year, a focal point of a significant session. The rest of the forum addresses gender equality, safeguarding, and sustainability, including climate change and the environment, with insights from the International Olympic Committee.