IN 2025, 306 tests were carried out through Horse Sport Ireland’s Equine Anti-Doping Programme, which is funded by Horse Sport Ireland Core Funding from Sport Ireland, affiliates’ contributions and by National Breeding Services funded by the DAFM. Five affiliates chose to make use of the programme and the test breakdown is as follows: ShowJumping Ireland (218 tests), the Dublin Horse Show at the RDS (13), Eventing Ireland (25), Dressage Ireland (19) and the Traditional Irish Horse Association (8).

From the 306 tests, the cases arising from 16 positive results for controlled substances have since been closed. Eight of these concerned senior riders, while all eight of the cases involving unnamed minors arose from SJI shows. Positive results for senior riders occurred four times at SJI shows, while one positive result arose from each of the following: the amateur class at the RDS, an Eventing Ireland affiliated DAFM Development Series class, the TIHA performance championship and HSI’s stallion inspections.

While the number of positive test results increased on 2024, the number of tests conducted through the programme more than doubled. In 2024, only 125 tests were carried out by three affiliates; the SJI, the RDS and EI. These resulted in seven positive results for Controlled substances, two of which involved minors.

According to HSI COO Avalon Everett, the increase in testing in 2025 reflects a ‘significant expansion of the HSI Equine Anti-Doping Programme, supported by a combination of funding sources rather than any single change to the system itself’.

“In particular, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has provided funding via the National Breeding Services (NBS) programme to support DAFM-funded classes, following an extensive period of advocacy by HSI. This represents a substantial additional investment into the national anti-doping programme,” she said.

“This DAFM/NBS funding, combined with Sport Ireland support through HSI core funding and a continued financial contribution from ShowJumping Ireland, enabled a considerably expanded testing pool in 2025. DAFM funding under the NBS programme has also been approved again for 2026, providing continuity and stability for the programme. ShowJumping Ireland remains the most committed affiliate partner in the programme.”

Everett continued: “One area of concern highlighted in the published cases is the number of minors returning positive tests. HSI would strongly urge parents and guardians to carefully review yard management practices in advance of the upcoming season and to familiarise themselves with the HSI Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Rules, including substances that are not permitted in competition. This is not only a regulatory issue, but also a horse welfare and safety concern.”