FEI to work with riders on chaotic’ tack app issues

Showjumpers say the new app, intended to clarify rules, has caused confusion and forced last-minute bit changes

- LUCY ELDER

THE FEI will work with riders to ease problems with its new tack app, which was designed to make life simpler but has caused confusion and "chaos".

The FEI TackApp was launched in May with the aim of being a one-stop shop for riders, grooms and officials in any discipline to check what equipment is, and is not, allowed. But monthly updates have resulted in frustration.

Certain riders have had to change bits at the last minute, as previously allowed equipment has been outlawed.

Questions have been raised as to whether information on the app was a binding FEI rule this year - it was treated as such, but it has only recently been approved to replace FEI guidelines from 1 January.

Discussions came to a head at the International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) annual meeting (8 December).