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The FEI has taken an exciting step to secure the future of dressage by creating a dedicated working group to develop a strategic action plan for the sport. This initiative aims to establish a clear vision, refine objectives, and implement meaningful improvements across all levels of dressage, ensuring horse welfare is at the heart of the sport.
A team of experts leading the way
Comprised of some of the most respected figures in dressage, the working group will address both challenges and opportunities in modern competition, ensuring that the discipline evolves in a way that benefits both horses and riders.
The working group is chaired by George Williams (USA), a highly experienced dressage figure who has served as President of the United States Dressage Federation and as US Equestrian Dressage Youth Coach. He is joined by a prestigious lineup of experts…
- Lise Berg (DEN) – Associate Professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, bringing invaluable veterinary insight.
- Gareth Hughes (GBR) – One of Britain’s leading dressage riders, with over 60 national and international titles.
- Kyra Kyrklund (FIN) – A six-time Olympian, former FEI Dressage World Cup™ champion, and Vice-President of the International Dressage Riders Club (IDRC).
- Klaus Roeser (GER) – Chairman of the German National Federation Dressage Committee and Board Member of the European Equestrian Federation (EEF).
- Raphael Saleh (FRA) – President of the Dressage Ground Jury for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and an experienced Level 4 Judge.
- Monica Theodorescu (GER) – Olympic, World, and European champion, and the first woman appointed as German National Dressage Coach.
Putting horse welfare first
At the core of the working group’s mission is the commitment to ethical, horse-friendly training that prioritises wellbeing. FEI Dressage Director Ronan Murphy reinforced this, saying: “Dressage should be built on balanced, ethical training resulting in freedom of movement, ease in transitions, and harmony between horse and rider, with no place for tension or resistance.
“Our focus now is to embed these principles in the FEI Rule Book and ensure they are applied consistently in training and competition, always putting horse welfare first.
“The working group was carefully selected not only for their expertise but also for their profound understanding of dressage. This diverse group represents a cross-section of the community, ensuring a broad range of perspectives. Their collective knowledge and vision will be instrumental in shaping a strategic plan that not only addresses the current challenges in the sport but also ensures the wellbeing of our horses, incorporates stakeholder feedback, and positions dressage for long-term success.”
A strategic plan for the future
The working group’s first priority will be a comprehensive review of the current state of dressage. This will include analysing feedback from stakeholders, riders, and experts, as well as evaluating discussions from a stakeholder meeting that was held in October 2024.
Their work will centre on key focus areas, ensuring that all proposed changes align with the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Action Plan, a guiding framework for horse welfare initiatives.
Science and research to support progress
To further support ethical decision-making, the group will create a scientific research repository, working closely with veterinary professionals to provide easily accessible, evidence-based information for all stakeholders.
Additionally, the Working Group will be responsible for proposing future rule revisions, with partial updates expected in 2025 and a full rule review scheduled for 2026. These updates will aim to reinforce best practices in training and competition, ensuring dressage continues to evolve in a way that supports both horses and riders.
A transparent and inclusive process
The working group is committed to transparency and collaboration, providing regular reports to the Dressage Technical Committee, FEI Board, and wider stakeholder groups. The first official progress update will be presented at the FEI Sports Forum on 31 March 2025, and Horse&Rider will continue to report the updates when they become available.
A positive future for dressage
With this initiative, the FEI is demonstrating its dedication to shaping a more ethical, progressive, and inclusive future for dressage. The formation of this working group represents a significant milestone for the sport, one that ensures the welfare of horses remains a top priority while keeping dressage accessible, fair, and inspiring for riders at all levels.
For passionate dressage riders who care deeply about their horses’ welfare, this is an encouraging step forward. With expert leadership and a clear commitment to positive change, the future of dressage looks much brighter.