Sport Nationality

What does it mean?

All FEI Athletes have a sport nationality (a country they compete for), regardless of their age and level. Athletes can only have one sport nationality at a time. The FEI's Sport Nationality Rules determine which country an Athlete must compete for, and the conditions under which a sport nationality can be changed. In order to be valid, a sport nationality change must be approved by the FEI.
 

Sport nationality is usually connected to state nationality. This principle is applied strictly for Athletes aged over 18, while a more flexible approach is used for Athletes under 18.

The FEI Sport Nationality Rules are set out in Art. 119 of the FEI General Regulations. Additional discipline-specific considerations may also be imposed by the relevant sports Rules. 
 

For participation in Olympic/Paralympic Games, additional eligibility requirements may be imposed by the applicable FEI Regulations. The Olympic and Paralympic Regulations also apply, and may impose a waiting period in the event of a sport nationality change. Participation in Regional and Continental Games is also subject to the regulations of the relevant governing body.
 
How to Apply for a Sport Nationality Change

Athletes aged above 18
Adult Athletes must possess the corresponding nationality in order to be eligible to compete for a country.
 

Sport nationality change applications are examined by the FEI in accordance with Art. 119 of the FEI General Regulations and can only be submitted by the National Federation of the country of the desired sport nationality. Applications submitted directly by Athletes will not be accepted.
 

To apply, please fill in the Application Form and send it to catherine.bollon@fei.org  along with:
♦ A copy of the relevant passport/official proof of nationality
♦ Proof of residency in the country as specified in Art. 119.2.2.2 of the FEI General Regulations
The application must be signed by an NF representative and carry the NF official stamp.

 

Minor Athletes (under 18)
Please contact catherine.bollon@fei.org with a copy of the relevant passport/official proof of nationality. No form required.
When to apply
Applications should be submitted to the FEI at least 30 days before the first planned international participation under the new sport nationality. 
 
How it works

The FEI will review the application and may request further documentation if necessary. The FEI will also inform the Athlete’s current NF that a sport nationality change procedure has been initiated. If all applicable requirements set out in Art. 119 of the FEI General Regulations are met, the FEI will confirm the sport nationality change. 

 
Sport nationality change and Olympic/Paralympic Games participation 

♦  Participation in the Olympic and Paralympic Games is also subject to Olympic and Paralympic Regulations, and in particular to any

    waiting period imposed by these regulations in the event of a sport nationality change.

♦  Participation in Regional and Continental Games is also subject to the regulations of the relevant governing body.

♦  Additional eligibility requirements may be imposed by the applicable FEI Regulations for the Olympic Games.

 
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