Omaha, Neb.—March 31
The Polish rider Dawid Kubiak was disqualified after jumping in Round 2 of the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Final. “Blood was found on the horse’s left flank by the FEI Steward in the post-competition boot and bandage control,” read a statement by show organizers. Kubiak rode Bagazza M, an 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare.
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Disqualification for blood on the horse’s flanks is mandatory under Article 242.3.1 of the FEI Jumping Rules. “There was no indication that there was any deliberate intention to injure the horse,” said Stephan Ellenbruch, the president of the ground jury. “But we have to ensure the best welfare standards for our horses and the rules have to be applied.”
Kubiak, who placed 26th in Round 1 with a rail and had rails again in Round 2. The show’s statement said that he will be eligible to jump in the grand prix on Saturday night, which isn’t part of the World Cup competition, but only if the horse passes a veterinary examination by an FEI veterinarian and is declared fit to compete.
