The Rolex FEI World Cup Showjumping final is the first in a major competition to be warned of the new equine anti doping and controlled medication regulations that came into effect this month.

“If your horse is found to have a banned substance in its system, you are looking at a two-year suspension,” FEI Veterinary Director Graeme Cooke warned.

The warning came at the riders’ briefing before the start of five days of competition in Geneva as part of the FEI’s drive to raise awareness of the Clean Sport Campaign.

Riders were provided with Clean Sport information packs containing an updated Athlete’s Guide and a brochure outlining how testing works, both of which are also available online at the link below. The publications have been sent to all National Federations for distribution to stakeholders.

“We want to provide all those involved in our sport, and especially our athletes, with all the necessary tools for the best possible understanding of the new Regulations,” Graeme Cooke said.

Dr Harald Müller, FEI Executive Director of Education and Standards, also guided riders through the use of the Prohibited Substances Database, which provides clear guidance on the substances included in the Equine Prohibited Substances List.

In the Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations, anything prohibited in competition is called a “Prohibited Substance.” Doping substances are called “Banned Substances,” while medication substances that are commonly used in equine medicine but prohibited in competition, are called “Controlled Medication Substances.”

For banned substances, the ineligibility period or suspension is a minimum of two years. For controlled medication substances, the ineligibility period is up to two years.

The World Cup Final will be shown on H&C TV, Sky 280, shortly after the event.