Senior vets demand Princess Haya reopens ‘bute debate’

Senior vets from around the world have written to FEI president Princess Haya condemning the decision to allow medication in competition horses.

The letter has been written by Prof Leo Jeffcott and signed by leading vets from the UK, France, Germany, USA, Australia and Finland.

“We believe a decision has been made that was premature, ill-considered and seriously retrograde,” say the equine vets. “This decision will have a serious and negative effect on welfare and profound repercussions for equestrian sport.”

They say that allowing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will “lead to the abuse of horses in competition that are unfit to compete” and ask Princess Haya to reopen the debate.

The letter is the latest in a fast escalating row over the decision taken in Copenhagen last week.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now