Dope-testing on the up in ‘high-risk' competition areas

Eight endurance cases were heard by the FEI Tribunal in a single month

- LUCY ELDER

AN increase in dope testing is on the cards for “high-risk” countries, the FEI has confirmed.

The body has been increasing testing over the past four years and plans to expand further.

H&H had asked whether a rise in testing was behind the fact the FEI Tribunal heard eight endurance doping cases in a month (March). In the same period, one reining and one showjumping case were heard.

“From 1 January 2016, the FEI’s global equine anti-doping and controlled medication programme (EADCMP) was rolled out worldwide, with increased testing throughout all levels of FEI disciplines,” an FEI spokesman told H&H.

“In 2017 the FEI took a more risk-based strategic approach, which has led to increased testing in high-risk areas with the aim of safeguarding horse welfare and ensuring a level playing field.

“The strategy has led to a higher number of positive cases, proving that endurance in some parts of the world has major challenges with compliance to [requirements]. The FEI is aiming to continue to increase testing in high-risk countries and will appoint FEI testing vets to carry [this] out at some of the most prestigious events once the FEI calendar returns to normal.”