Extended shutdown in Europe due to EHV-1

The FEI has imposed a two-week extension to the already ongoing shutdown on all international events in mainland Europe. The equine lockdown will take place until the 11th of April 2021. For International Equestrian Sports this sadly means the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final and FEI Dressage Finals will not take place.

The EHV-1 outbreak has resulted so far in the death of 12 horses. In an effort to minimise further spread of this aggressive strain of the virus, the FEI Executive Board has decided to extend the lockdown. This will apply to all FEI disciplines in equestrian events. 

“We cannot eradicate EHV as it is endemic in many countries, but we need to work together to minimise the transmission of this particular strain, which has already caused the death of 12 horses in Europe.” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “The extension of the lockdown is difficult for everyone, and the loss of the FEI World Cup Finals for a second year is particularly devastating, especially for the qualified athletes and for our loyal Top Partner Longines,”

This shutdown means the cancellation of the FEI World Cup Finals for the second year in a row. In addition, the shutdown caused by the spread of EHV-1 (Equine Herpes Virus) meant the cancellation of the Dutch Masters in Hertogenbosch earlier this month. Now, everyone at FEI is working hard to put in place an enhanced protocol that will allow a safe return to play once the outbreak is under control.

The neurological form of EHV-1 infection is a form of disease in horses that causes respiratory issues and can cause death of horses. To prevent the spread, FEI strongly recommends that all National Federations in Europe cancel their national events in an effort to minimise movement and equine sport activity.

This extended lockdown applies to the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Spain, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden. 

If you want to follow all the events that are being cancelled due to the EHV-1 outbreak you can access HERE our updated article with cancelled events.