FEI pledges almost CHF 3 million to support grassroots equestrian activities

The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) recently approved to make close to CHF 3 million available in funding, including a newly created FEI Covid-19 Relief Fund worth CHF 1,050,000 for National Federations that have been severely affected by the global coronavirus pandemic.

Approved by the FEI Board at its online meeting on 10 September, the FEI identified 105 of their 137 National Federations as eligible for support from the FEI Covid-19 Relief Fund, which will provide targeted financial assistance to support grassroots equestrian activities at riding clubs and schools, particularly the care and upkeep of horses.

The remaining funds are set to be delivered across the FEI’s development activities, including over 40 National Federations’ projects in 23 countries, and will be proposed for approval at the FEI General Assembly 2020, hosted online in November.

“The pandemic has had a devastating impact globally, and a major adverse effect on the equestrian world in general but some countries, especially those that had fewer economic resources to begin with, have been hit particularly hard,” FEI President and Chair of the FEI Solidarity Committee Ingmar De Vos said.

“The Covid-19 Relief Fund will provide a financial injection aimed at maintaining equestrian activities in these countries and we hope that it will allow these communities to withstand the current economic difficulties created by the pandemic.

“We want our community to know that we are constantly listening and monitoring their needs and that we are committed to assisting them during this difficult time.”

GAISF President Raffaele Chiulli said:

“I would like to congratulate the FEI on this significant initiative in support of grassroots equestrian activities. During this extremely challenging time for everyone, this fund will provide a major boost to so many riding clubs and communities around the world.”

For more information about the fund, please click here.