Title: FEI Issues Warning Cards to Para Dressage Riders for Rule Violations in Early 2025

In the first four months of 2025, the FEI has issued two "warning cards," also known as yellow cards, to two para dressage riders at CPEDI competitions. They were for non-compliance with the applicable sport rules and for incorrect behavior.

CPEDI Doha
At the CPEDI Doha on 19 February 2025, Dutch paralympic team rider Rixt van der Horst received a warning card for "Non-Compliance with applicable Sport Rules (GRs Art. 164.3)." Rixt’s groom rode her horse Fonq in draw reins on the show grounds. Draw reins fall under Para Dressage Rules Article 8431 4.5, which states that gadgets such as martingales, bit guards, and any form of blinkers that interfere with the horse’s vision are strictly forbidden during training, warm-up, and competitions.

The rider was not eliminated but received a yellow card. The FEI explained to Eurodressage that the incident occurred on the day of arrival, prior to the Horse Inspection of the CPEDI Doha, and in an area not supervised by officials at the time. The image in question was subsequently posted on social media, leading to a review by the President of the Ground Jury. After discussing the circumstances, including the timing and location of the incident, the behavior of the horse upon arrival, and the cooperation of the athlete, the President chose to issue a Yellow Warning Card. The FEI acknowledged the prompt follow-up by officials while recognizing that elimination is the applicable sanction for such an offense as per the FEI Para Dressage Rules.

CPEDI Waregem
At the CPEDI Waregem on 26 April 2025, German paralympic team rider Heidemarie Dresing received a warning card for "Incorrect Behaviour." The German Equestrian Federation issued an official statement about the incident to Eurodressage. National coach Silke Fütterer-Sommer explained that Heidemarie was the first rider to start the competition and, due to time pressure, wanted to access her horse before the stables were officially opened. However, a member of the security staff prevented her from entering the stables. The ensuing discussion escalated due to misunderstandings and a language barrier, leading to the security guard complaining to the ground jury, which resulted in Heidemarie receiving a yellow card.

Heidemarie is aware that special care must be taken outside of stable hours and expressed regret that the situation escalated.

All FEI yellow cards are announced on their official website for both dressage and para dressage.