FEI Tribunal issues full reasoned decision in US Jumping athlete suspension

The FEI Tribunal has published the full reasoned decision in the 10-year suspension of US Jumping athlete Andrew Kocher for the use of electric spurs. The decision is based on violation of the FEI General Regulations Articles 142 and 164.12 including horse abuse, breach of the FEI Code of Conduct on the welfare of the horse, competition manipulation and incorrect behaviour.

The full reasoned decision follows publication of the operative decision by the FEI on 22 April and provides a summary of the relevant facts, allegations and arguments based on the Parties’ written submissions, pleadings and oral testimony submitted throughout the proceedings and at the oral hearing held on 14, 15 and 16 April 2021.

In addition to the 10-year period of ineligibility and disqualification of all results obtained at events for which the FEI Tribunal was provided with photographic evidence establishing the use of electric spurs, the athlete was also fined CHF 10,000 and ordered to pay costs of CHF 7,500.

Following receipt of the full reasoned decision on 10 June 2021, the Parties have 21 days to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).