New provisions on the use of mobile phones, particularly in the training and warm-up arena were tabled at the 2025 FEI General Assembly in Hong Kong on Thursday 6th November.
Session 2 focused on presentations outlining key proposed changes to the FEI Statutes, General Regulations, the Internal Regulations of the FEI, and the various Sports Rules. The changes shared for information and discussion during the Sessions, will be voted on by delegates during the FEI General Assembly on 7 November.
FEI Legal Director Mikael Rentsch outlined new provisions on the use of mobile phones, while FEI Executive Board member Jessica Kürten (IRL) encouraged organisers to provide printed start lists and a screen displaying live results and competition in the warm-up arena in a place where mounted athletes can see it, as these are the primary reasons athletes and trainers rely on their phones.
New FEI rules for mobile phone usage by riders
Mobile Phone Usage while riding
Unless otherwise provided in the Sport Rules, Athletes are prohibited from holding a mobile phone and/or any similar electronic device to their ear or doing calls while riding in the warm-up arena.
Use of hands-free communication devices
Unless otherwise provided in the Sport Rules, Athletes may use one earphone or hands-free communication device while riding in the warm-up arena, providing these devices do not compromise their safety or that of others. FEI Officials reserve the right to prohibit any device deemed unsafe or inappropriate.
Monitoring and enforcement
FEI Officials are responsible for enforcing this rule and intervening in case of violations. Unless otherwise provided in the Sport Rules, any violation will result in a Warning.
