Las Vegas, Nevada – Steffen Peters and Legolas 92 were eliminated from the Grand Prix Freestyle in the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage Final today following the discovery of a small amount of blood on the horse’s side at the post-competition check.

In accordance with the FEI Dressage Rules, the FEI Steward reported the finding of blood to the Judge at C, Liselotte Fore, who eliminated Peters and Legolas 92. Under Article 430.7.6 of the FEI Dressage Rules, elimination is automatic in the case of blood anywhere on the horse.

“Sadly Legolas did have a tiny bit of red on one side following his test, the rules are clear and we understand the decision that was made,” said Robert Dover, U.S. Dressage Chef d’Equipe/Technical Advisor. “Steffen is the ultimate sportsman and true ambassador for the sport who has successfully represented his country in international competition for decades. When you watch riders, like Steffen, who are so loving and sympathetic to their horses, have something completely unexpected happen, all you can feel is immense empathy and sadness for them.”

The USEF holds equine welfare paramount and fully supports the decision of the FEI officials.

From the USEF Communications Department