Contentious elimination rule prompts more calls for change

The rule that allows the ground jury president to halt any rider’s round came into force this year, to controversy

- BECKY MURRAY

A CONTROVERSIAL FEI showjumping elimination rule has come under discussion again, with questions over fairness and calls for change.

Under the rule, which came into force this year, the president of the ground jury, or in their absence a designated ground jury member, may ring the bell to eliminate a combination while a round is ongoing if it is decided it would be “contrary to the principles of horse welfare to allow the combination to continue”. The decision is final and not subject to appeal.

This was met with backlash and was a major talking point at the International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) general assembly in December, with riders including Nick Skelton and Belgian showjumper Pieter Devos calling for judging panels at major championships to include a former top rider to help with any elimination decisions (news, 12 Jan).

Last month the IJRC called for a review of the rule – and asked the FEI to allow former elite-level riders to sit with the ground jury in an “advisory capacity” at championships and Olympics.