The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) in Lausanne has suspended the United Emirates (UAE) Equestrian Federation and will not allow any international horse sport events to be held there until crucial pledges are made that will ensure the elimination of alleged horse welfare issues and non-compliance with rules and regulations in the discipline of endurance riding.

In recent years, controversy has simmered over allegations about the manner in which endurance competitions are run within the Emirates. Investigations began during the latter stages of Princess Haya’s presidency. Now that her successor Ingmar De Vos has taken over, these investigations have intensified.

Last week, the full FEI bureau chaired by De Vos unanimously took what he termed a “drastic measure to deal with an unacceptable situation”.

This is the first time that such a suspension has been imposed. As De Vos explained: “The decision to suspend a national federation is not something that is taken lightly and we only should do this if no other remedy is found. Where the welfare of horses is concerned, the FEI has to show leadership and solve problems without any concessions.”

The decision will have far-reaching implications not only for the hundreds of UAE endurance riders, who cannot compete abroad, but also for foreign competitors who would normally gain World Equestrian Games qualifying points at UAE events.

As matters now stand, no international competitions can be held within the Emirates until the suspension is lifted. Their federation has 30 days to appeal the ruling. It may well be that imposing the suspension will prove easier than finding a solution that will bring the Emirates back into the fold.