FEI 2025 senior Europeans at risk with no live bids

A lack of venues coming forward to host championships is a cause for concern with costs proving a major blocker

- LUCY ELDER

THERE is a risk that the senior European Championships in eventing, showjumping and para-dressage will not go ahead next year, if no hosts are found.

In his opening speech at the 2024 FEI Sports Forum (29–30 April), FEI president Ingmar de Vos said that the organisation is still “discussing and looking for” organisers to hold these championships, as it is becoming “more and more difficult” to find hosts.

The forum held two sessions to discuss the bidding process and championship models.

The debate answered two major questions – that riders and the sporting community view championships of all sizes as being incredibly important, and that costs for organisers are a big problem. The FEI now plans to set up a working group to explore suggestions.

Alongside the regular operational costs of organising a big show, championship organisers also face significant extra expenses, including accommodating large numbers of people, hosting fees, and broadcast requirements.