Finland’s Equestrian Federation has voiced strong disapproval following the decision by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, horses, and officials. The FEI announced this week that competitors from these nations can participate in international events starting in early October without restrictions. The Finnish Federation deems this development “particularly problematic,” expressing concerns about the implications for the sport’s integrity and fairness. They had previously supported the ban implemented in response to the conflict in Ukraine. This decision reverses a prior stance aimed at isolating Russia and Belarus from the international sporting community. The Finnish Federation’s reaction highlights a growing divide within equestrian sport regarding the inclusion of athletes from the two countries. They have not specified what actions, if any, they will take in response to the FEI’s decision.