EFTBA 2026 2026 - Istanbul, Turkey

PRESS RELEASE EFTBA 2026 AGM   28.06.26

 The EFTBA 2026 AGM took place in Istanbul, Turkey on 27^th June 2026 on the eve of the 100^th running of Turkey’s Gazi Derby, which is the pinnacle of Turkish horse racing and is the richest Derby run in Europe this year. Representatives from Europe’s breeding nations gathered together to discuss all the key challenges and threats facing the European Bloodstock Industry. On the previous day a meeting took place of the EFTBA Veterinary Advisors Committee, which provided its report and guidance to the EFTBA Board at its AGM sessions.  

The AGM programme generously hosted by the Turkish breeding association and supported by many of its key industry stakeholders was outstanding. In the days leading up to the AGM itself, the EFTBA delegation and guests were given in depth insights into the Turkish bloodstock industry. While showing its rich heritage of horsemanship, it demonstrated great dynamism in terms of a committed energy to further in enhance and improve its breeding and racing operations.

During the AGM, many issues were discussed. One of main issues was the recent decision take by France Galop to open the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe to geldings. The EFTBA expresses its great disappointment that it appears this decision was taken in complete isolation and without any industry consultation. EFTBA is committed to vigorously contesting this decision in the best interest of the European thoroughbred breeding industry and beyond. 

Another the matter discussed was the EU’s proposed new Animal Welfare in Transport Regulations, which have profound implications for the breeding industry. EFTBA recently played host to the Chair of the MEP Horse Committee Hilde Vautmans during her visit to Coolmore Stud. She was updated on the EFTBA recommendations for resolving challenges we face in relation to this matter. She was shown the vehicles that are used for the transport of our horses. Her Parliamentary Advisor followed up on this visit with a description of the next steps towards resolving such issues in the Parliament, which is encouraging, but we are still dependent on the outcome of the Trilogue between the EU Council, the EU Commission and the MEP’s.

Hilde Vautmans has also become proactive in the EU Availability of Medicines issue. She is seeking EFTBA input on five specific issues in this context, which include the availability of equine medicines and the complex problems arising from a desire for exclusion of specified horses from the food chain.  These issued will be addressed as a priority over the next few weeks by the EFTBA Veterinary Committee.

The issue of the policy of stallion farms in the UK and Ireland which requires re-testing of mares coming from Continental Europe prior to covering was comprehensively discussed. It was decided that matter would be raised at the International Code of Practice meeting which takes on 2nd July 2026.

A discussion took place on the spread of West Nile Fever.  It is clear that the relentless northwards trajectory of this infection is continuing and that global warming is likely to increase the incidence of this disease. Expert advice from Italy indicates that there may be a case for mandatory vaccination in some countries at some stage and France is reviewing the availability of sufficient vaccines to combat this disease.  

Another topic raised at the meeting was the growing number of Equine Influenza cases reported by France, Ireland and the UK from the early Spring of this year through to the present. This infection is causing significant problems in the unvaccinated populations of Europe but it is reassuring that the current strain of this virus is covered by the available vaccines. The control of this important disease depends on proper and accurate certification of vaccination. EFTBA continues to advocate and lobby for mandatory vaccinations. 

Commenting on the AGM, EFTBA Chairman Joe Hernon said “the EFTBA, as guardians of the thoroughbred is committed to ensuring the thoroughbred breeding industry remains current and well respected in an ever- changing world.   Today we witnessed the 100^th running of the Gazi Derby, which to celebrate its centenary, plans were put in place by the Jockey Club of Turkey to make it the richest Derby in Europe for 2026. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Turkish TBA and its President Emir Karadag for giving the EFTBA delegation a most memorable visit.       

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