Communication between Equestrian Sport Germany (FN) and the German Judges' Association (DRV)

Communication is not always easy. You can see this in politics – the chancellor knows a thing or two about it – as well as in all other interpersonal relationships. And in the end, everyone involved usually comes to the realization that it was good to have “talked it over”.

So much for the theory.

During practical implementation, there may be occasional atmospheric disturbances, depending on who is talking to whom. Good communication is particularly important in times of crisis or at least in moments when things are perhaps not running smoothly. And this is precisely where there seems to be a little bit of a rift between those involved in Germany, at least at show jumping level.

“Young horse summit” becomes a bone of contention

After the meeting called the “Young Horse Summit” – which sounds a bit like G7, black limousines and saving the world – changes to the Bundeschampionate were announced(here is our background article from February). Everything is to become more “young horse-friendly”. One had to get the impression that the illustrious panel convened by the German Equestrian Federation (FN) with expertise from horse breeding, young horse national championship riding and judging had jointly developed a new concept, which is then to be implemented in 2026. As a “pilot project”, which initially raises no suspicions. Trial makes perfect.

Judge: “not LPO compliant”

My colleague Dominique Wehrmann noticed that things weren’t quite so harmonious and that everything is by no means a done deal. She spoke to Dr. Carsten Munk, originally to find out what he thought about the abolition of the third-party rider test. What was meant to be a short phone call turned into a long interview. What you need to know: Dr. Munk has not only been a judge at national championships for many years, he is also Chairman of the German Judges’ Association (DRV). And they are extremely critical of the “pilot project”. The changes are simply not LPO-compliant. Wait a minute? Not in accordance with the performance test regulations? Then the tournament shouldn’t even take place, you might think. But – as a “pilot project”…

The DRV has strong reservations about several decisions – from health to horse welfare. It communicated these to the FN/Horseracing Germany by letter at the beginning of March.

The reaction: none! The FN annual meetings are at the beginning of this week, where many things are to be discussed and approved. Anyone who knows the always conciliatory geologist Munk knows that the man is no troublemaker. But one who is aware of the great responsibility towards the horse on the part of all those who sit and judge in the judges’ boxes and towers every week.

How well does cooperation really work for the horse?

Regardless of what the discussion at the annual conference will reveal, I ask myself a completely different question: How closely or how well do the FN and judges work together? Many of the pressing problems concerning the social acceptance of equestrian sport by the general public are rooted in incidents at shows. After all, that’s where the sport is most visible. I would like to see (and to be honest, I had assumed) that “legislators” (FN) and executive authorities (judges) would be in close contact in order to be able to react quickly and correctly if necessary. And to accompany the sport, recognize trends in good time and act quickly. A continuous, critical examination of its “product” is a key building block for the success of a company. Martin Richenhagen, the business-savvy chairman of the FN, certainly knows this from his time as CEO.

A letter that went unanswered for weeks casts doubt on the importance the FN attaches to this exchange with the judges. Not to mention appreciation of the other party.

With this in mind, best regards and see you next Monday!

Jan Tönjes
jan.toenjes@equi-pages.de

This text was first published on May 4, 2026. Every Monday, Jan Tönjes comments on the events of the previous week in our newsletter on EQUI PAGES.

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