From 2027, and no later than 2029, riders under the age of 13 will be banned from international competitions, national championships and nationwide series.
World stars such as Peder Fredricson, Henrik von Eckermann and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson believe in a debate article in the magazine Ridsport that the B-pony years are not elite, but an important part of children's development.
There is no doubt that the union feels confident in its cause.
"We are adamant that this is the right way to go. We want as many people as possible to be able to practice our sport," says chairwoman Sandra Ruuda.
She believes the decision aims to allow children to develop at their own pace.
"We follow the same path as other associations. In 2022, the RF clarified its guidelines and we just follow that. We do what is best for the children," says Ruuda.
The chairman believes that the fact that the decision is sparking criticism and debate is only positive.
I think it's good that they make their voices heard. You can express what you feel. I want to be clear that I think it's good that things like this are discussed. It must not become a culture of silence, says Ruuda and continues:
There is no prestige in our decision. Should it turn out to be wrong, after we have implemented and tested it, we will have to rethink it.
Jens Fredricson, Lisen Bratt-Fredricson and Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli are also behind the debate supplement.
