The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) announced on October 16 that it will suspend the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) effective December 1, barring Indian riders, officials, and trainers from participating in international competitions. This move also prohibits India from hosting any FEI-sanctioned events amid ongoing governance challenges within the national federation.

The suspension stems from a prolonged governance dispute that has affected the EFI’s ability to comply with international regulatory standards. An FEI spokesperson stated that the EFI will be excluded from attending or representing itself at FEI meetings during the suspension period. The organization also clarified that Indian athletes will be prevented from competing under both the EFI flag and the FEI flag in any events organized by the FEI or other national equestrian federations.

This action follows the February 2026 dissolution of the EFI’s executive committee by the Delhi High Court. The committee’s elected term had officially expired in September 2023 but remained in place under interim court orders to maintain continuity ahead of the Paris Olympics. The court mandated the Indian Olympic Association to establish an ad hoc committee tasked with overseeing the sport and conducting fresh elections in accordance with India’s recently enacted National Sports Governance Act. However, those elections have yet to take place, and the federation continues to operate under the ad hoc committee amid ongoing uncertainty.

Earlier this year, the Delhi High Court highlighted concerns over the transparency and consistency of athlete selection procedures under the ad hoc committee while upholding a contested selection decision. The court emphasized the need for clearer governance and accountability within the federation.

With the suspension effective December 1, Indian equestrian participants—including horses—will be barred from all FEI international competitions and events hosted by other national federations. The ban disrupts the momentum of a sport that secured a team dressage gold medal for India at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and could impact the country’s efforts to position itself as a significant sporting destination and a prospective host for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Requests for comment from the Equestrian Federation of India have not been responded to. The FEI indicated that the suspension will be lifted only after fresh elections are conducted and the results are reviewed.