World · India Bureau
FEI Suspends Indian Equestrian Federation Over Governance Issues
The International Equestrian Federation has suspended India's equestrian body from international competition, effective December 1, citing unresolved governance concerns. The move prevents Indian riders and officials from participating in FEI-sanctioned events worldwide.
LSN India ·
The Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) has announced the suspension of the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) from international equestrian competition, marking an escalation in efforts to resolve ongoing governance disputes within the Indian sporting body. The suspension, set to take effect from December 1, represents a significant sanction that will impact India's participation in international equestrian events.
The decision stems from a prolonged internal crisis at the EFI that has prevented the organization from meeting international standards and FEI requirements for governance and administration. Officials overseeing international equestrian standards have grown increasingly concerned about the federation's inability to resolve these structural issues, which have persisted despite previous interventions.
The suspension effectively bars Indian riders, trainers, and officials from competing in or participating in any FEI-sanctioned international events until the organization resolves its governance challenges and the suspension is lifted. This includes prestigious competitions and qualifiers that Indian equestrians traditionally participate in across Asia and globally.
The FEI has indicated that the EFI may seek to restore its standing by addressing the underlying governance issues and demonstrating compliance with FEI regulations and standards. The federation now faces pressure to implement necessary reforms and restructuring to regain international recognition and restore participation rights for Indian equestrian athletes.