Maribel Alonso Declines to Run for Second Term as FEI Dressage Committee Chair

Dressage

FEI

Mexican 5* dressage judge Maribel Alonso has notified the FEI that she will not be running for a second term as FEI Dressage Committee chair.

Alonso was elected chair in 2021, running against Martin Richenhagen and Ulf Helgstrand. Maribel previously served on the FEI Dressage Committee as a member from 2013 - 2017.

Stepping Back

She was re-eligible for a second term (2025 - 2029) but has declined for health reasons.

"After a careful reflection - and as my first term comes to an end- I've decided not to stand for a second. This decision comes at a moment when I need to prioritize my health. Cervical and shoulder related issues cannot longer be set aside. Recovery will require time, care and focus-and stepping back feels like the most responsible choice for myself and family."

Alonso added, "our sport faces important challenges that call for renewed leadership and a strong commitment to meaningful progress. With the FEI soon entering a new chapter in its development with a new President at the helm, I believe it is the right moment to open space for fresh ideas, new voices, and forward looking energy. In an era of rapid change, healthy renewal is essential for the needed evolution."

More Thoughtful Action

Ulrike Nivelle, Ludger Beerbaum and Maribel Alonso
at the 2023 European Championships in Riesenbeck

Alonso's term as FEI Dressage Chair was marked by a period of change prompted by raised animal welfare issues.

"Dressage remains grounded in tradition, shaped by discipline, and defined by the unique connection between horse and rider. The way we present it, explain and stand behind is a critical part of how it is perceived and valued," Maribel told Eurodressage.

"Concerns raised by animal welfare advocates and other external voices have called for more thoughtful action, transparency and collaboration," she said. "The welfare of the horse has always been and will remain- the foundation of what we do. That commitment must evolve with the times, not only in what we do, but in why and how we do it."

Holistic Strategies

When asked to look back on her four-year term, Alonso reflected on the Dressage Committee's accomplishments in this time frame.

"A lot has happened over this term, but the Stakeholders and Representatives Meeting last October stands out as a key moment. Ahead of it, the DTC shared a list of suggestions shaped by the current climate, which we had been working on," Maribel explained. "The meeting marked the beginning of the Dressage Strategic Working Group formation, an ambitious and collaborative effort to bring in broader technical expertise and wider representation from all relevant groups guided by the leadership of the Dressage Director."

Alonso believes that, "to meet today's challenges, we need holistic strategies that affirm our values while also connecting with bigger and more diverse audiences. I believe that an integrated communication and marketing approach-one that extends a genuine invitation to younger generations can help our sport grow, strengthen our identity and build lasting trust."

Re-Opened Application Process

The FEI has re-opened the application process for this position with the deadline being 31 August 2025.

All candidates are vetted by the FEI Nominations Committee. The list of candidates will go to the FEI board who will appoint the new chair on 4 November before the annual FEI General Assembly.

"While I am stepping down from this role, I am not stepping away from the sport," Alonso concluded. "My connection to dressage remains strong, and I’ll continue to contribute wherever I can be of service. I have been very lucky to work with such a group of experts. Thank you for helping make dressage more visible and understood. I look forward to continuing this conversation - in whatever shape it takes - about the future of our sport and all it stands for."