Global Champions League (GCL), the new show jumping league and team competition developed by the owners of Global Champions Tour (GCT), welcomes the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA)’s decision to suspend the so-called “exclusivity clause” imposed by Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the equestrian sport’s governing body.
By Nina Fortgens
In June, the GCL had filed a complaint and a request for interim measures with the BCA in Brussels alleging the breach by the FEI of European Union competition law by using its rules to prevent riders from competing in events not approved by the FEI. In
its interim measures ruling, the BCA ordered the FEI to suspend its exclusivity clause with regard to the Global Champions League pending the investigation into the GCL’s complaint.
GCT President Jan Tops said: “We welcome this important decision by the Belgian Competition Authority, which now gives us a clear path to launch the Global Champions League in 2016. “It is important to note that the decision of the BCA is in clear
recognition that without the suspension of the exclusivity clause it would have been impossible to go ahead. I am happy that there is now clarity for all the riders and our stakeholders and we look forward to delivering fantastic competition for the
enjoyment of everyone.
In 2016, the new Global Champions League will see team owners recruit star riders, selecting two riders from a squad of four to compete in each event, creating an exciting new competition alongside the already hugely successful Global Champions Tour
for individual riders.
