At a glance: With the start of the 2026 competition season, new FN regulations apply for spurs, equipment, and trainer education. At the same time, many riders are unaware that even everyday Grooming Products, herbs, and fly sprays can be considered doping. We give you a compact overview of all important changes, the most common pitfalls, and our tips for a relaxed season.
The 2026 competition season has started – and with it come some new regulations that every ambitious rider should know. The German Equestrian Federation (FN) has revised both the Performance Examination Regulations (LPO) and the Training Examination Regulations (APO) as of January 1, 2026. The focus is on animal welfare – and an awareness that "unintentional doping" through Grooming Products or natural remedies is not uncommon. We show you what you should pay attention to now.
The most important FN rulebooks in competition sports
Before we get to the updates, a brief classification. In German competition sports, there are three central sets of rules:
| Regulations | Meaning | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| LPO | Performance Examination Regulations | Basic Rules for National Competitions |
| WBO | Competition Regulations | Recreational Sports, Beginner Competitions |
| APO | Training Examination Regulations | Trainer, Judge, and Rider Education |
| ADMR | Anti-Doping and Medication Control Rules | Part of the LPO |
These are supplemented by the LPO Equipment Catalog, which is updated every year and specifies in detail which Bits, bridles, spurs, and other equipment are allowed at competitions.
LPO 2026: These equipment changes apply immediately
The most important updates in the LPO Equipment Catalog 2026 mainly concern spurs, Bits, and some detailed regulations. Anyone who wants to avoid unpleasant surprises at the next competition should know these points.
Spurs: No more rowels – also in dressage
The most important change: Spurs with rowels are also banned in dressage from 2026. Previously, this rule only applied to show jumping. Spurs with freely rotating wheels without rowels are still allowed.
Also note: The total length of the spur may be a maximum of 40 mm from the boot to the tip. The tip must be attached horizontally or slightly downward.
Important: During training, you can of course continue to use your previous spurs – only at competitions do the LPO regulations apply.
Acclimation Jumping LP for Young Horses
Newly introduced is the acclimatization jumping LP according to the Clear-Round procedure for 4- to 6-year-old horses. Only simple or double-jointed Bits are allowed in this test – this is intended to provide a particularly horse-friendly introduction to competition sport for young horses.
Hoof Care and horseshoeing
The LPO 2026 clarifies: Lead plates or weights – visible or invisible – are not allowed. Hoof boots are generally permitted but must not extend beyond the coronet band.
Pads, gel pads, and gentle pads
In addition to the Pad, gel pads, sheepskin pads, or other gentle pads may also be used – with clearly defined measurements taken directly on the horse.
Dressage S** without spur requirements?
In the highest dressage class, there are adjustments to the permitted bridles. For dressage LP from class S** and dressage rider LP class S, the curb bit remains mandatory – but there are no new changes to the spur length requirements.
APO 2026: What changes in trainer and judge training
The revised training examination regulations also come into effect on January 1, 2026. The most important points for riders who may want to train others later:
- New "Trainer C – Entry into equestrian sports" specifically for instructors who want to accompany beginners and children
- Specialist judges: Riders with at least three successes in class M** can in the future choose between dressage and show jumping judge training
- Judges for riding with a focus on eventing: New entry path into eventing judging
- Animal welfare is given greater weight in all badges and tests
- Reflection talks as a supplementary examination form – instead of a pure snapshot on the day of the test
Doping in equestrian sports: More than just injections
The word "doping" often conjures images of criminal veterinarians and illegal injections. The reality is different. Most doping cases in amateur and grassroots sports occur unintentionally – through Grooming Products, herbs, or natural remedies that the rider does not even recognize as problematic.
The rider is always responsible. The principle of strict liability applies: Regardless of whether a prohibited substance entered the horse intentionally, negligently, or completely unintentionally (for example, through contaminated feed) – the rider, owner, or person responsible will be held accountable.
What exactly are the ADMR?
The Anti-Doping and Medication Control Rules (ADMR) are part of the LPO and define:
- Which substances are prohibited in competition
- What withdrawal periods must be observed
- What procedures apply during controls
- What sanctions threaten in case of violations
The FN distinguishes two important terms:
- ADMR Compliant: Substance is allowed in competition
- ADMR Conflict: Substance is prohibited in competition
Important: If a substance is not listed in the ADMR search engine, this does not automatically mean it is allowed! The lists are not exhaustive.
Warning Doping Trap: These Grooming Products Can Cost You the Competition
This is where it gets really exciting – and surprising for many riders. Even everyday Grooming Products can trigger a doping violation. You should take a close look at the following product groups before every competition.
Fly Sprays with Essential Oils
Insect repellents are generally allowed, but the ingredients decide. If fly sprays contain essential oils such as lavender oil, clove oil, or other highly active plant oils, a withdrawal period of 48 hours must be observed. This also applies to many "natural" sprays based on herbs, which are completely harmless in everyday stable use.
Tip: For the competition period, use sprays with clearly declared, ADMR-compliant active ingredients. Many manufacturers now provide this information on the packaging. If in doubt, check the product beforehand in the FN's ADMR search engine.
Skin Lotions and Ointments with Capsaicin
Capsaicin (the spicy substance from chili and pepper) as well as mustard oils and turpentines are among the prohibited physically active substances (keyword: hypersensitization). These can be found in "Tiger Balm"-like ointments or some warming ointments. Pastes marketed as Treats or feel-good boosters can also contain critical ingredients – the names are often cryptic like "pepper extract" or "chili extract".
Cooling Boots and Cooling Methods
Here is a often overlooked rule: Cooling boots are only allowed if their temperature does not fall below 0 °C. From zero degrees downwards, they are considered doping. Acupuncture is also not allowed in competition – with a withdrawal period of 48 hours.
Homeopathics
Homeopathic remedies up to and including potency D6 are generally prohibited in competition – with a withdrawal period of 48 hours. They are only allowed from D7 onwards.
Warning Doping Trap: These Herbs and Natural Remedies Are Problematic
Many popular herbs and phytotherapeutics are also ADMR-relevant. The following overview shows the most common pitfalls:
| Substance | Effect | Withdrawal period |
|---|---|---|
| Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum) | Joint pain relief | 4 days |
| Frankincense (Boswellia) | Anti-inflammatory | 2 days |
| Valerian (valeric acid) | Calming | 48 hours |
| Arnica | For blunt trauma | 2 days |
| Ginger | Stomach problems, pain relief | 2 days |
| Poppy | Calming, pain relieving | Prohibited |
| Willow Bark (salicin) | Pain relieving | Limit values in urine |
| Fennel, plantain, chamomile | Respiratory tract, digestion | Withdrawal period, often 0.5% limit |
The tryptophan content in herbal mixtures must not exceed 0.5% – otherwise, the mixture is considered non-ADMR compliant. In general, herb content in feed should not exceed 3% to avoid triggering a withdrawal period.
Important: This does not mean these substances are bad for your horse! On the contrary – they can be valuable helpers. But: If your horse acutely needs Devil’s Claw for arthritis pain or Willow Bark for joint complaints, it is not fit for competition anyway.
On the safe side with the ADMR search engine
The FN offers a free ADMR search engine on pferd-aktuell.de, where you can check ingredients of feed, Grooming Products, and medications. At the latest 14 days before the competition, you should review all products used – then you still have time to discontinue critical substances and observe the withdrawal period.
It is also recommended to keep a treatment book in which all treatments, Feed Supplements, and Grooming Products are recorded. This creates clarity – and in case of an inspection, provides proof.
How to prepare optimally for the 2026 competition season
To ensure a relaxed start to the competition, a small checklist helps:
4 weeks before the competition
- Check license, horse passport, and vaccinations (influenza vaccination protection!)
- Align training plan with competition day
- Are riding badges and performance class up to date?
2 weeks before the competition
- Check all feed, Grooming Products, and supplements in the ADMR search engine
- Discontinue critical herbs and supplements
- Check equipment for LPO compliance (spurs, Bits, nosebands)
- Check Competition Wear
1 week before the competition
- Check saddle, Bridle, and bandages
- Check horseshoeing and Hoof Care
- Enough rest and relaxed training
48 hours before the competition
- Do not use essential oils in fly sprays or Grooming Products anymore
- No homeopathic remedies D6 or lower
- No acupuncture or comparable treatments
On competition day
- Select all Grooming Products and sprays consciously
- Stay calm during medication control – the FN gives horse owners enough opportunity to groom the horse beforehand
- Have the treatment book with you
Competition-appropriate Grooming Products: What you should watch out for
If you want to be on the safe side, pay attention to these criteria for Grooming Products:
- Clear declaration of all ingredients (no generic terms like “plant extract”)
- Avoid essential oils during competition week
- Manufacturer notes on ADMR compliance on the packaging
- Simple Grooming Products without medical claims are usually unproblematic
- Prefer products specifically declared as ADMR-compliant when in doubt
Tip from the kavalio range: Always make sure that the products comply with the current ADMR regulations. It’s worth checking the ingredient list to be on the safe side.
Stylish at the competition: The outfit classics
Besides all the preparation, the right competition outfit is part of a successful appearance. Currently popular brands at kavalio:
- Cavalleria Toscana – the Italian premium brand for classic-elegant Competition Wear and stylish Saddle Pads
- Pikeur – German classic for breeches, jackets, and Competition Shirts
- Samshield – French brand for premium riding helmets and competition equipment
- Kingsland – Scandinavian design for sporty-elegant appearances
- Equestrian Stockholm – colorful Saddle Pads and bandages with character
FAQ: The most common questions about competition riding 2026
When do the new FN regulations for 2026 apply?
The changes to the LPO and APO have been binding since January 1, 2026. The LPO equipment catalog is also updated at the beginning of the year – it’s always worth a look.
Which spurs are allowed in 2026?
In show jumping and dressage, only spurs without rowels are allowed. Freely rotating rowels are still permitted. The total length may be maximum 40 mm from the boot to the end of the spur.
Can fly sprays count as doping?
Yes – fly sprays with essential oils like lavender or clove oil are subject to a withdrawal period of 48 hours. Before the competition, you should avoid such products or choose ADMR-compliant alternatives.
What does ADMR-compliant mean?
ADMR-compliant means that a product is allowed in competition according to the FN Anti-Doping and Medication Control Rules – without a withdrawal period. Manufacturers often indicate this on the packaging. If in doubt, you can check in the ADMR search engine at pferd-aktuell.de.
How long is the withdrawal period for devil's claw?
4 days. Devil's claw is one of the substances with the longest withdrawal period among common natural remedies. If you support your horse with it, you should end the treatment in time before the competition – or postpone the competition if the horse urgently needs the substance.
What happens with a positive doping test?
The strict liability applies: the rider or person responsible is held accountable, regardless of intent or fault. Sanctions range from disqualification and fines to suspensions for several months or years.
Which herbs are problematic in Horse Feed?
Especially devil's claw, valerian, poppy, willow bark, arnica, and ginger. Fennel, plantain, and chamomile can also become critical at higher proportions. In general: herbal content over 3% in the total feed usually triggers a withdrawal period.
Are homeopathic remedies allowed at the competition?
Only from potency D7 upwards. Homeopathics up to and including D6 are subject to a withdrawal period of 48 hours.
What is the ADMR search engine?
A free online tool from the FN that allows you to check the ingredients of medications, feed, and grooming products for ADMR compliance. You can find it at pferd-aktuell.de.
Do I need a treatment book?
It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended. It provides an overview of all treatments, grooming products, and supplements – and can provide evidence in case of an inspection. Treatment books are available in the FN shop.
What changes for trainers in the APO 2026?
There is a new “Trainer C – Introduction to Equestrian Sports" specifically for beginner trainers, new focus judges for dressage and jumping, and a stronger emphasis on animal welfare topics at all training levels.
Conclusion: Those who are informed ride more relaxed
The 2026 competition season brings some sensible adjustments that put animal welfare at the center. The key points: spurs without rowels – also in dressage, a gentler familiarization jumping test for young horses, and increased awareness of “unintentional doping.” Those who align their equipment with the current LPO equipment catalog, check all Grooming Products and feed in the ADMR search engine in time, and keep a treatment book are well prepared for a relaxed competition season.
In the kavalio online shop you will find everything you need for a successful season – from Competition Wear from premium brands to LPO-compliant equipment and our own Grooming Products line. And if you are unsure about a product: always ask your veterinarian or the FN directly – it costs nothing and can save you a lot on competition day.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and does not replace reading the current LPO, APO, and ADMR. Only the official rulebooks of the German Equestrian Federation (FN) are binding. Withdrawal periods and regulations may change – in case of doubt, always consult the current ADMR search engine or ask your veterinarian.
