Equestrian Australia acknowledges the determination handed down by the National Sports Tribunal on 29 June 2026 in relation to the protest concerning the awarding of the Australian Grand Prix Champion title at the 2024 Australian Dressage Championships. We recognise the disappointment and uncertainty this matter has caused for those directly involved and the broader dressage community.

The Australian Dressage Championships 2024 were conducted by Dressage NSW on behalf of Equestrian NSW, and it is now for Dressage NSW and Equestrian NSW to determine the ranking of the Australian Grand Prix Champion and to assign the title and Championship Rug in accordance with the Tribunal's findings.

The Tribunal found that the scoring method applied by the Organising Committee to determine the Award was not consistent with the applicable EA Dressage Rules, and that the rules, properly construed, required a percentage-based scoring method rather than a points-based system.

EA now considers this matter closed. However, we will continue to work closely with all relevant parties as the Tribunal's findings are implemented. We recognise that this has been a challenging process for those involved and sincerely thank all parties for their patience, professionalism and constructive engagement throughout.

In response to the Tribunal's findings, the EA Board has commenced a review of the relevant National Dressage Rules, associated policies and event approval processes. The review will remove ambiguity in how placings and championship titles are determined, ensure event documentation is consistent with the national rules, and strengthen how and when rule clarifications are communicated to competitors. These measures are being taken to help prevent a situation of this nature occurring again.

EA remains committed to fair, transparent and consistent competition across our sport. We appreciate the impact this matter has had and thank our members for their patience and understanding.