Clean Sport
Equine Anti-Doping & Controlled Medication Rules (BEFAR)
British Carriagedriving operates under the National Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Rules (BEFAR), set by British Equestrian.
These rules:
• Apply to all affiliated members at every level
• Closely mirror the international regulations of the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI)
• Are a condition of our affiliation to the FEI
• Are supported and funded by British Equestrian member bodies and UK Anti-Doping (UKAD)
Whether you compete at grassroots level or at a National Championship, you and your horse may be tested.
Failure to comply can result in significant penalties.
What this means for you
Under BEFAR, equine anti-doping is divided into two distinct areas:
1. Doping (Banned Substances)
Substances that must never be given to a horse.
2. Controlled Medication
Legitimate veterinary medicines that are prohibited in competition.
All substances fall under the FEI Equine Prohibited Substances List, which BEFAR adopts in full. This ensures consistency across disciplines and levels of competition.
Common Controlled Medications
The following substances are commonly used in veterinary treatment but are not permitted in competition:
- NSAIDs – e.g. Phenylbutazone (Bute), Flunixin (Finadyne)
- Sedatives – e.g. Acepromazine (ACP), Detomidine
- Corticosteroids – e.g. Dexamethasone, Triamcinolone Acetonide
- Colic treatments – e.g. Buscopan
- Local anaesthetics – e.g. Lidocaine, Mepivacaine
- Respiratory therapies – e.g. Clenbuterol (Ventipulmin), Dembrexine (Sputolysin)
Important: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), while commonly prescribed, are classified as Controlled Medication and will result in a rule violation if detected in a competition sample.
Testing & Sanctions
- Testing is conducted at random
- You are as likely to be tested in a Novice class as in Advanced
- Testing may take place at any affiliated competition
A positive test may result in:
- A minimum 6-month period of ineligibility
- Disqualification from the event
- A financial fine
- Liability for costs
Further Information
The full Equine Prohibited Substances List and guidance are available via FEI Clean Sport resources and through the British Carriagedriving website.
All competitors — drivers, grooms and support teams — share responsibility for protecting equine welfare and upholding clean sport. If in doubt, always consult your veterinary surgeon before competing.
