The Fédération Équestre Internationale has launched an investigation following an altercation that occurred in the warm-up area Jan. 24 during the jump-off of the CSI5* grand prix in Doha, Qatar, the federation confirmed Thursday. The inquiry aims to clarify the circumstances—still unclear—of an incident that disrupted the running of the competition.
The warm-up arena at the main show grounds of the Al Shaqab Equestrian Center Doha was the scene of the disturbance that involved several riders and members of their entourages, either directly or indirectly. Among those present were Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Al Sharbatly and Great Britain’s Harry Charles. According to multiple sources, Charles dismounted his horse to assist his father, Peter Charles, 66, who was lying on the ground at the time. The precise sequence of events remains subject to interpretation.
The FEI is investigating an incident that disrupted competition in Doha. Sportfot Photo
On Jan. 26, Belgian rider Abdel Said, who finished ninth in the grand prix aboard Wathnan Calvaro after incurring 16 faults in the jump-off, expressed his frustration on social media.
“Unfortunately, the boxing match and a loose horse disrupted my warm-up and unsettled Calvaro,” he wrote. “It’s deeply frustrating and sad to witness situations like this in our sport, especially at this level. There must be far greater respect between riders and their teams, and FEI stewards need stronger authority to prevent such incidents. Frankly, it’s appalling.”
Like other witnesses and alleged participants contacted last week by GRANDPRIX, Said declined to comment further.
“The FEI is aware of the incident,” an FEI spokesperson said Thursday. “We are currently looking into it in line with our established procedures.”
To ensure the investigation proceeds smoothly, stakeholders and witnesses have been instructed to refrain from making public statements.
