The Professor Ingvar Fredricson Foundation is dedicated to advancing equestrian sport on the horse’s terms. The FEI Code of Conduct reflects the same core principle: the welfare of the horse must always come first. By highlighting this Code, the Foundation reinforces its commitment to ethical, evidence‑based, and sustainable horsemanship.
FEI Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse
The FEI requires all participants in international equestrian sport to adhere to the Code of Conduct and to recognise that the welfare of the horse is paramount. Welfare must never be subordinated to competitive or commercial pressures. The following principles form the foundation of responsible, ethical equestrian sport.
1. General Welfare
Good horse management — Horses must receive correct stabling, feeding, and constant access to clean water.
Training methods — Training must match the horse’s maturity and physical ability; abusive or fear‑inducing methods are prohibited.
Farriery and tack — Foot care, shoeing, and tack fitting must be of high standard and designed to avoid pain or injury.
Transport — Horses must be transported safely, in well‑maintained vehicles, with competent handlers and proper ventilation.
Journey planning — Travel must include regular rest, food, and water in accordance with FEI guidelines.
2. Fitness to Compete
Fitness and competence — Only fit horses and competent athletes may compete; horses must receive adequate rest between training and events.
Health status — Horses showing signs of illness or injury may not compete.
Doping and medication — Any form of doping or illicit medication use is strictly forbidden.
Surgical procedures — Procedures that compromise welfare or safety are not allowed.
Pregnant mares — Mares may not compete after the fourth month of pregnancy or with a foal at foot.
Misuse of aids — Abuse of natural or artificial aids (e.g., whips, spurs) will not be tolerated.
3. Event Conditions
Competition areas — Surfaces and obstacles must be safe and suitable for horses.
Ground surfaces — All surfaces must be maintained to minimise injury risk.
Extreme weather — Competitions must not take place in conditions that compromise welfare; cooling facilities must be available.
Event stabling — Stables must be safe, hygienic, well‑ventilated, and comfortable, with access to water at all times.
4. Humane Treatment
Veterinary care — Veterinary expertise must always be available. Injured or exhausted horses must stop competing and be examined.
Referral centres — When needed, horses must be transported to appropriate treatment facilities.
Injury monitoring — Injury rates must be tracked to identify and reduce risk factors.
Euthanasia — If necessary, euthanasia must be performed humanely to prevent suffering.
Retirement — Horses must be treated with dignity and care when their competitive career ends.
5. Education
The FEI encourages all participants to maintain high levels of knowledge in horse care, training, and welfare. The Code is updated regularly to reflect new research and best practices.
These principles reflect the Foundation’s mission to safeguard the horse’s welfare, preserve equestrian cultural heritage, and promote training and competition practices grounded in science, ethics, and respect. By championing the FEI Code of Conduct, the Foundation strengthens its commitment to a sport that always puts the horse first.
