Endurance GB has announced its sponsorship negotiations with Sheikh Mohammed’s Meydan corporation have been put on hold.
Sensitivities
The news follows the FEI’s decision to remove United Arab Emirates (UAE) endurance events from its 2015 calendar.
Endurance riding in the Middle East has been under scrutiny for some time, with concerns over doping and equine welfare. Things finally came to a head, following the footage of a horse breaking both his front legs in a race in the Al Reef Cupin Abu Dhabi.
“In view of current national and international sensitivities and pressures surrounding the sport of endurance, the board of Endurance GB has decided to suspend sponsorship negotiations with Meydan until further notice,” John Hudson Chairman Endurance GB.
Cancellations
Part of the three-year deal with Meydan included three new race rides at Euston Park this year, which was closed in 2013. Without the Sheikh’s backing, these events have had to be cancelled.
“This decision does not affect other planned rides or activities and EGB will continue to offer a wide range of local, national and international rides at all levels throughout England and Wales,” said John.
Imposed sanctions
The withdrawal of funding from Dubai will come as a relief to some EGB supporters, who voiced their concerns via the organisation’s forum. Karen Collier resigned as chairman a few weeks after meeting UAE representatives last May.
The sponsorship deal was put to the vote in January, with 570 to 405 in favour. However, many EGB members said they would not rejoin as a result.
A number of other national equestrian federations have imposed sanctions on their riders competing in UAE endurance events.