International Event Riders' Club Launches in October 2026
The new independent not-for-profit association aims to provide a unified voice for riders in global eventing governance.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Equestrian
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In October 2026, Harry Meade launched the International Event Riders' Club, an independent association for FEI-registered competitors. The organization seeks to establish a formal memorandum of understanding with the FEI to secure a seat at the General Assembly.
Why it matters
The club aims to give riders a collective voice regarding the rules, development, and governance of the sport. Eventing is currently the only Olympic discipline that lacks a memorandum of understanding with the FEI.
Membership is free and open to any FEI-registered rider competing internationally. Eventing is currently the only Olympic discipline without an established FEI memorandum of understanding.
The players
Harry Meade
He serves as the president of the International Event Riders' Club.
Lynn Symansky
She serves as the vice president of the newly formed organization.
The details
The board collects and develops positions on issues raised by its members to engage with governing bodies. President Harry Meade and Vice President Lynn Symansky lead a board that includes Sam Watson, Noor Slaoui, Julia Krajewski, Tim Price, Oliver Barrett, Bettina Hoy, and Frédérique Reffet Platier.
Timeline
The International Event Riders' Club launched in October 2026.
Season Trajectory
The club's formation signals a shift in how riders interact with the FEI, moving toward a more formal, collective bargaining structure within the sport. This could alter the competitive balance of influence by standardizing how rider concerns are addressed at the international level.
Riders interested in collective advocacy can now join the association without paying dues. Members gain a direct channel to influence rule changes and governance as the board formalizes its relationship with the FEI.
The takeaway
The club represents a significant step toward professionalizing the athlete's role in global equestrian governance. Riders looking to stay informed on regulatory changes should monitor the organization's progress toward securing its FEI memorandum.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the sport by visiting our Equestrian section.
More information
To join the organization, visit the International Event Riders' Club membership portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Horse & Hound.
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