The tribunal of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) did not hear the appeal of Simon Delestre against his disqualification in Praag, as it declared itself not competent. As a result, the jury’s decision, and thus the elimination of his team, remains final.
The tribunal of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has declared itself not competent to hear the appeal of Simon Delestre against his disqualification during the Global Champions League playoffs in Praag. The French rider had initially produced a clear round, but was later given 32 penalty points after video footage showed that his helmet chin strap had come undone. As a result, his team, the Istanbul Warriors, dropped from qualification to elimination.
The case sparked significant controversy, particularly as the sanction was imposed after the round and based on a protest. Both the team and organiser Global Champions questioned the proportionality and consistency of the decision, especially in light of similar past situations that went unsanctioned. However, the proceedings ultimately focused not on the substance of the decision, but on whether it could be legally challenged.
The FEI Tribunal ruled that it could not. Under a fundamental principle of sports law, decisions taken by officials on the “field of play” fall exclusively within their jurisdiction and are final. As the jury acted within the rules, including the use of video evidence within the permitted timeframe, the decision cannot be reviewed by another body. Arguments regarding the timing of the decision and the handling of the protest were therefore dismissed.
While Simon Delestre still has the option to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the likelihood of a different outcome appears limited. The rider himself stated that he had expected this result, underscoring the strict principle that sporting decisions made on the field of play remain binding, even when they are subject to debate.
