Dressage Nations Cup at CHIO Rotterdam in 2024 not part of FEI Nations Cup Series
After extensive discussions with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and other event organizers, CHIO Rotterdam has decided to withdraw from the FEI Nations Cup Dressage Competition in 2024. The 5* Dressage Nations Cup during CHIO Rotterdam will proceed according to the original plan with teams from Belgium, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Germany, Sweden, America, and the Netherlands, but will not be part of the FEI Nations Cup 2024 Series.
The decision follows that of CHIO Aachen, as CDIO Falsterbø and CHIO Rotterdam cannot fulfill previously made agreements with the National Federations of the participating countries based on the rules changed by the FEI at the beginning of this year, whereby the best teams may participate based on the average of points in the FEI world ranking dressage.
"This means that we would only be able to admit teams two weeks before the start of CHIO Rotterdam. For us the interest of the athletes prevail. We had already invited teams before the rules changed, and especially in an Olympic year, you cannot keep participants in uncertainty for so long." said Patrick van der Meer, Dressage Sports Director of CHIO Rotterdam. "This was a very difficult decision for us, and we understand that it is disappointing for the FEI's plans. For the last weeks we had good discussions and we have been working together to find a suitable solution. Unfortunately, one has not been found for 2024, but we trust to find a workable solution together for the next season."
During the 5* Dressage Nations Cup at the upcoming CHIO Rotterdam, teams from eight countries will compete. After the Grand Prix on Thursday, June 20, two riders per team will proceed to the Grand Prix Special, and two riders to the Grand Prix Freestyle on Saturday, June 22. Surrounding these 5* dressage competitions, a jubilee dressage show will also take place on Saturday evening to celebrate the 75th edition of CHIO Rotterdam.