I support the use of the '20% Grand Prix finish' formula for qualifying for 4* events. I do NOT support it as a finishing criteria for the events themselves.

Using this format completely invalidates any use of 'team strategy'. Each entered horse/rider combo is obligated to ride as fast as possible, regardless of any concept of 'anchoring the team' or supporting a team member, because they cannot know in advance what speed will be required to complete. This is neither good for the sport, nor conducive to horse welfare. It will return us to 'last man standing', de-valuing planning and horsemanship in favour of simple speed; exactly what we are trying to avoid in the future.

Very low completion rates (especially when combined with treatments) do not sit well with the public. Nor does the overall concept of eliminating a rider on a horse in good shape because that rider is perceived to have gone slower in order to 'take care of their horse'. You need to reward this mindset, not discourage it.