International Military Sports Council (CISM) signs Memorandum of Understanding with FEI

The International Military Sports Council (CISM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), world governing body for equestrian sport.

The MOU was signed by CISM President, Colonel AbdulHakeem AlShino (BRN) and FEI President Ingmar de Vos at the Olympic Equestrian Centre in Deodoro, Rio de Janiero (BRA).

Formed in 1948, CISM is one of the largest multi-disciplinary organisations in the world and oversees sporting events for the armed forces of its 134 member countries. CISM annually organises over 20 Military World Championships for approximately 30 different sports, continental and regional competitions, and the Military World Games. CISM also invests significantly in sport for peace activities, with solidarity one of their main initiatives.

CISM equestrian events include four disciplines: Jumping, Eventing, Dressage and Endurance. The last Military World Endurance Championship (2^nd edition) took place in 2014 at the Dubai Equestrian Club (UAE), attracting a field of more than 70 participants.

This partnership agreement will see the two organisations continue to work closely together to support the development of equestrian sport internationally.

“We are very pleased to formalise this partnership between the FEI and CISM”, FEI President Ingmar De Vos said. “Equestrian is a key component of multi-sport events worldwide and the FEI is committed to developing these relationships to continually improve and increase the offering of equestrian sport across the globe. It was very fitting to sign the agreement at the Olympic Equestrian Centre in Deodoro, Rio, which is home to Brazil’s largest military barracks, catering for more than 60,000 servicemen and women. We are looking forward to working with CISM over the coming years.”

“Equestrian is an important sport of the CISM sports programme and, with the signing of this MOU, we are looking forward to developing our relationship with the FEI over the next years and working together to further raise the standard of equestrian in the military sports’ world”, CISM President Colonel AbdulHakeem Alshino said. “This agreement is a wonderful opportunity to exchange experiences and expertise between our two organisations.”