Presidents Message: Olympic Legacy

A sports federation like the FEI plays a critical role in governing, promoting, and developing the top sport to elite competition such as the Olympic Games. However the National Federations are responsible for grassroots participation. To fulfill its responsibilities effectively, a federation must have a well-defined strategy. Such a strategy provides a roadmap for achieving long-term goals, addressing challenges, and capitalizing on opportunities.

To write a successful strategy the FEI searched for the most important tasks the community expected them to carry out. The one that was clearly the most important was that the equestrian sport should stay Olympic. This raises the question how important the Olympics for equestrian sport versus development of the grassroots are.

The Olympic Games represent the pinnacle of athletic achievement and a global stage where sports and athletes gain unparalleled visibility. However, the question of whether the Olympics primarily contribute to the growth of a sport or if fostering youth participation through grassroots programs is more important sparks a significant debate. While these approaches serve different purposes, they are deeply interconnected, with neither thriving fully without the other.

The Olympics amplify the visibility of sports, inspiring individuals and communities worldwide. They offer a platform for sports, some of which might otherwise remain obscure, to attract attention and resources. For example, disciplines such as archery, handball, and judo often see spikes in participation and interest during Olympic years. This visibility can lead to increased funding, sponsorships, and broader societal recognition. The spectacle of the Olympics not only elevates elite athletes but also motivates viewers to explore these sports themselves.

Moreover, the Olympics provide role models—athletes who epitomize excellence, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Figures like Simone Biles in gymnastics or Usain Bolt in athletics inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams, fueling aspirations and strengthening the connection between viewers and sports. This aspirational effect can lead to a rise in participation at all levels, encouraging nations to invest more in both infrastructure and talent development.

While the Olympics showcase top-tier performance, grassroots programs form the bedrock of any sport. These programs emphasize accessibility, fostering interest and skill development among young participants. A strong grassroots system ensures a steady pipeline of talent that may one day rise to the elite level. Beyond talent cultivation, grassroots programs promote inclusivity and the social benefits of sport—teamwork, discipline, and physical health—offering opportunities to young people irrespective of their socioeconomic background.

In sports with robust grassroots systems, athletes can progress through well-structured pathways, from local clubs to national teams. Without this foundation, even the most inspiring Olympic moments might fail to convert into long-term growth or sustained interest. For example, football and basketball, with their vast grassroots networks, consistently produce top-tier athletes and maintain high levels of participation globally.

The relation between grassroots participation and elite performance, as seen in the Olympics, often appears far away, but they are strongly related. Grassroots programs provide the raw talent and foundational skills necessary for elite performance. However, the success of elite athletes and the global visibility of events like the Olympics inspire investment in grassroots initiatives. Nations like Norway exemplify this balance, with strong youth sports systems complemented by outstanding Olympic performances.

Without grassroots development, a sport risks stagnating, becoming an exclusive pursuit for a privileged few. Similarly, without the allure and inspiration of elite competitions like the Olympics, grassroots programs may struggle to retain participants who lack role models or aspirational goals. Sports need both layers: one to build participation and skill at the base, and the other to showcase excellence and inspire the next generation.

The growth of sports and youth participation through grassroots initiatives and the spectacle of the Olympics are not mutually exclusive but interdependent. Grassroots efforts lay the groundwork for talent and accessibility, while the Olympics elevate sports to a global stage, inspiring participation and investment. A sustainable model for sport development must prioritize both, fostering a continuous cycle of engagement, inspiration, and excellence. Balancing these dimensions ensures that sports remain inclusive, vibrant, and a source of national and global pride.

It must be added, that our place in the Olympics should never be considered a given. We are a historic sport, with a place in games since 1900, and this place has provided so many legacy benefits as mentioned. However, the perceptions of sport are changing, new sports are being introduced, and the public will continue to question and challenge the sports that are placed on the world's greatest stage. We must continue to do our part, to represent our sport to its fullest, to prioritise the horse at the centre, from the grassroots up. We must be open to change where required and challenge our own beliefs in pursuit of the fundamental goal of our sport: harmony with the horse.

The future is clear. The FEI will do its part and National federations should take their responsibilities and develop the strategy necessary to grow the grassroots in each of their countries.

I wish you happy holidays and a successful 2025.

Theo Ploegmakers

EEF President