SHB(GB) Statement – FOAL CLASSES REINSTATED AT CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW

 1 July 2026

Following the recent announcement regarding the temporary withdrawal of foal classes from the 2026 SHB(GB) Championship Show, the Board of Trustees has now completed a further review of the current Equine Influenza (EI) situation.

This review has considered the latest available information, the current disease picture, veterinary guidance, the specific arrangements in place at the Championship Show venue, and a comprehensive risk assessment. As a result, the Board has agreed that foal classes will now proceed as scheduled, subject to the conditions outlined below.

The decision reflects our commitment to making evidence-based decisions that can adapt as circumstances change. Equine Influenza remains a dynamic situation, and it is important that SHB(GB) responds proportionately to the level of risk at any given time.

The following factors have informed the decision:

• The Championship Show venue operates robust biosecurity measures and follows FEI infection prevention and disease control protocols.
• All horses attending the Championship Show will be required to comply with SHB(GB)'s vaccination requirements, with passports checked on arrival to confirm that vaccinations are current.
• All youngstock classes are scheduled on a single day, reducing the period of potential exposure compared with events where horses remain on site over several days.
• The current assessment indicates that, with these measures in place, the risk is considered manageable.

However, owners should recognise that no disease control measure can eliminate risk entirely.

In particular, while foals receive passive immunity through antibodies transferred from a correctly vaccinated mare, this protection is not complete and reduces over time. Vaccination of the dam should therefore be regarded as providing an important level of protection, but not a guarantee against infection. Owners should carefully consider the individual circumstances of their foal before deciding whether to attend.  If concerned seek veterinary advice.

SHB(GB) will continue to monitor the national Equine Influenza situation closely in the lead up to the Championship Show. Should there be a significant deterioration in the disease picture or new veterinary evidence indicating that the risk has materially increased, the Society reserves the right to review this decision and implement any further measures considered necessary in the interests of equine welfare.

The welfare of horses remains SHB(GB)'s highest priority. We appreciate the understanding shown by our members while this review has been undertaken and thank everyone for their continued support as we respond to changing information in a considered and responsible manner.