FEI/IFHA join forces to form new organization

FEI/IFHA join forces to form new

organization

The Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the International Federation of

Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) have joined forces to create the International Horse Sports Confederation

(IHSC), the

first formal alliance and vehicle for cooperation between the racing and sport horse worlds.

The IHSC's primary mission will be the exchange of information and

technical knowledge and collaboration on issues that affect both

parties, including horse welfare, anti-doping, coordinated

communications and fair play. The formation of the IHSC was formally

signed by FEI President Princess Haya and IFHA Chairman Louis Romanet at

the FEI General Assembly on Thursday.

"The creation of the International Horse Sports

Confederation is an outgrowth of the FEI's collaboration with the OIE, and

our efforts to join forces with our sister federation, the

IFHA, will ensure that we move forward together in this effort for the

mutual benefit of both our industries," Princess Haya said. "It

represents one of the most profound milestones for the global growth of racing and horse sport.

"Our negotiations have taken place since the end of 2012, and now with the International Horse

Sport Confederation established, we are firmly joined together to pool our knowledge and

capabilities, and move forward with strength as horse sport continues to grow around the world.

"Our key priorities will be facilitating the movement of horses to compete in

international competitions, protecting horse welfare, maintaining strong doping control policy, and

ensuring fairness in our sports for participants and the general public."

"The creation of the IHSC means that we

can now link the wealth of our expertise in the racing world and within the equestrian

sports governed by the FEI," Romanet added. "Both federations will be fully cooperating to protect the

welfare of the horse and to facilitate the international movement of horses in close liaison with the

World Organization for Animal Health.

"The news is wholeheartedly welcomed by our members

and we now have an exceptional opportunity to promote strong regulation and

best practice on an international scale with the FEI. We are looking forward to this exciting

new chapter for horse sport and we are very grateful to HRH Princess Haya for her outstanding

leadership, which made it possible to achieve our common goals."

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com