The U.S. Equestrian Federation board of directors approved a resolution yesterday condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the attack on its innocent people, and Belarus’ support of such actions. The USEF joins in solidarity with the International Olympic Committee, International Paralympic Committee, Fédération Équestre Internationale, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Athletes’ Advisory Council and the global Olympic and Paralympic community in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from sport participation.

The USEF board, effective immediately and until further notice, prohibits all Russian and Belarusian athletes, horses and officials from participation in USEF national events. This prohibition applies to any athlete, horse, owner or official who is a citizen of Russia or Belarus, or has declared Russia or Belarus as their sport nationality.

The announcement comes in the wake of the FEI’s decisions to remove all international equestrian events in Russia and Belarus from the FEI calendar and ban all Russian and Belarusian horses, athletes and officials from participating in international events.

USEF President Tom O’Mara stated, “It is devastating to see the destruction in the Ukraine. We must stand strong in our support of the country and people who are suffering.”