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Questions over FEI Tribunal’s processes, structure and independence *H&H Plus*

Eleanor Jones Eleanor Jones

    • Lawyers who have represented a number of riders in cases involving the FEI have raised concerns about the appeals process, while British dressage rider Richard Davison asks whether a form of mediation would be a better solution. H&H finds out more...

    CRITICISMS have been levelled at the FEI appeals process, with concerns over the structure and questions about its independence.

    The case of Sri Lankan showjumper Mathilda Karlsson – who lost Olympic ranking points, and her country its individual Tokyo spot, after an FEI investigation – has led to riders and lawyers speaking up.

    Ms Karlsson’s appeal against the FEI’s decision to remove classes held at Villeneuve-Loubet from the ranking points was dismissed by the FEI Tribunal (news, 25 June). The classes had been added to schedules after the definite entry deadline, but the additions were approved by the FEI and the French federation.

    Their removal meant Ms Karlsson lost points and dropped out of Olympic qualification.

    Her lawyers, Piotr Wawrzyniak and Luc Schelstraete of Dutch firm Schelstraete, have represented a number of clients in cases involving the FEI.

    “We think the structural approaches of the FEI are not right, in more than one area,” Mr Schelstraete told H&H. “We’ve had a number of experiences that raise serious concerns.”

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    Eleanor Jones
    Eleanor Jones

    H&H news editor
    Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
    Eleanor Jones