THE number of positive cases of prohibited substances arising from Horse Sport Ireland’s equine doping programme rose from seven in 2024 to 16 in 2025. So far in 2026 there have been three positive cases. Much of that increase can be attributed to an increase in testing thanks to funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) as well as support from HSI affiliates.

In 2024 HSI tested 125 samples in partnership with Showjumping Ireland (95), the RDS (14) and Eventing Ireland (16). These samples were funded with contributions from HSI core funding and from each affiliate organisation. As a result of the testing in 2024 there were seven positive cases, all arising from controlled medications, meaning Equine Controlled Medication Rules (which are closely aligned with the rules of the FEI) applied.

In 2025, HSI received funding from DAFM for the first time since the testing programme commenced in 2012. This funding was used for testing at events in receipt of DAFM funding through HSI schemes and complimented the testing that was already in place. In 2025, 153 samples were tested through the affiliates: SJI (118), RDS (13), DI (12) and EI (10). The testing funded through DAFM also resulted in 153 samples being taken: SJI (100), DI (7), EI (15), TIHA (8) and HSI events (23).

In total there were 306 samples taken in 2025 resulting in 16 positive cases, all arising from Controlled Medications, so again, the ECM Rules applied.

According to Horse Sport Ireland, the expectation for 2026 is that testing numbers will be similar to 2025 as the funding from DAFM has continued into 2026. As of the end of June 2026, 102 samples have been completed, resulting in three positive cases. Further updates will be published on the HSI website at regular intervals throughout the year.

A HSI spokesman said: “HSI is committed to supporting a safe and clean sport and express gratitude to all affiliates who engage with the testing programme. HSI encourages all equestrian participants to make themselves aware of the HSI EADCM Rules, the database of prohibited substances and to proactively engage with their veterinarian on the treatment of their animals ensuring clean sport principles and animal welfare are at the heart of any decision on treatment.

All information on the HSI Equine Anti-Doping programme can be found on the HSI website www.horsesportireland.ie/equine-anti-doping/