New FEI showjumping blood rule approved

But Britain will not be following the international federation's lead

- By LUCY ELDER

THE FEI will go ahead with changes to the so-called blood rules in showjumping that have divided opinion but Britain will not follow suit at national level.

The new rule, which comes into effect on 1 January, states that rider-induced blood on the horse will no longer mean automatic elimination. Instead, a system of jumping recorded warnings will be introduced.

The first two violations of the rule will result in a recorded warning; two or more warnings within 12 months will mean a fine of CHF 1,000 (£945) and a one-month suspension.

In cases of blood where a horse appears to have bitten its tongue or lip, or is bleeding from the nose, blood may be wiped and the combination can continue "provided the horse is deemed fit to compete", and no warning will apply.

In all cases of blood, the horse may only be permitted to continue or participate in any subsequent competitions at the event if the ground jury, with the vet delegate, has deemed the horse fit to compete.

Automatic elimination for marks that indicate excessive use of spurs remains in place.