Next week, Riyadh in Saudi Arabia is poised to host the Dressage World Cup Final, but some magazines, such as Horsemagazine, will not report on this event, as it is sponsored by Saudi Arabia.
"Saudi Arabia's lavish investment in sporting events isn't merely for the love of the sport; it's a calculated move to polish their tarnished global image", they stated. "They hope to divert attention from their myriad human rights abuses, from political prisoners to the repression of women and the LGBTQ+ community. Even the brazen murder of a journalist within the walls of a Saudi Embassy, sanctioned by their own leadership, seems to fade into insignificance amidst their quest for sporting prestige. Let's not even mention their deplorable treatment of animals or the frequent doping scandals plaguing their Endurance races."
By abstaining from covering the Dressage World Cup Final, HorseMagazine aims to avoid indirectly aiding Saudi Arabia in their sports-washing endeavors. That's a line they refuse to cross. Undoubtedly, the FEI's publicity machine will churn out glowing reports extolling the virtues of the event: impeccable dressage performances, state-of-the-art facilities, and all-around enjoyment.
Source: Horsemagazine