Pammy Hutton highlights a significant gap in the governance of dressage stewards, who currently operate without clear, up-to-date written guidelines despite their critical role in safeguarding equine welfare. The FEI’s previous stewards’ manuals were removed and replaced by an online resource lacking technical detail, leaving stewards to make judgment calls on issues like hyperflexion, noseband tightness, and horse welfare without definitive rules. This rule vacuum places unfair pressure on stewards, who are already few in number and face high expectations for policing and transparency, while judges often hesitate to penalize poor riding.

Hutton argues that dressage needs more objective judging standards and robust, current guidelines to support stewards and improve consistency. She also critiques the emerging trend of resistance bands for riders, questioning their safety and effectiveness. Ultimately, she calls for clearer rules and better enforcement to help stewards perform their duties effectively, reduce undue pressure, and foster a more realistic and transparent sport where even top riders can have off days without compromising horse welfare.