If you’ve noticed fewer riders saluting the judge before they start, you’re not imagining it.
The requirement for riders to salute the Ground Jury/Judge has been removed from the FEI Jumping Rules, and Equestrian Australia adopted this change in its National Jumping Rules effective 1 January 2026.
This is quite a significant change because, for many years, the rules stated:
“Each Athlete must salute the President of the Ground Jury as a matter of courtesy…” (Equestrian Australia) and the Ground Jury could even refuse to start a rider who failed to salute, unless they had waived the requirement. And eliminate you if you didn’t acknowledge the judge at the end of your round.
Under the 2026 FEI/EA rules, that specific requirement has been removed altogether. The FEI’s summary of rule changes simply states:
“The requirement to salute has been removed from the Rules.”
Does that mean riders shouldn’t acknowledge the judge?
Not necessarily.
Many judges still appreciate a nod, eye contact, or brief acknowledgement before the bell, and as every organising committee runs their events slightly differently it is worth checking with the Marshal if you need to ride up to the judge or not. Most events operate on a radio correspondence, so it is more than likely that the Marshal has called your details ahead, and they’ll send you in at an appropriate time. A generous smile and Good morning will never be turned down.
So, while a salute is no longer compulsory, acknowledging the judge with a nod or eye contact remains good horsemanship and good etiquette. How did this come about? Ask the Swedes – it was the Swedish Federation who made this suggestion, it was accepted and Article 256.2.1. was removed.
Rules change. Respect doesn’t.
