Ruuda, Perillo, Cholakov Elected Board Member at 2025 EEF General Assembly

Dressage

EEF

The European Equestrian Federation (EEF) held its annual General Assembly on Tuesday 7 October at the Kursaal Convention Centre in San Marino, where three new members were elected on the board.

A total of 39 National Federations were present or represented out of 40, with 27 attending in person and 12 represented by proxy, reflecting the continued engagement and solidarity of EEF members. A key moment of the day was the election of new members to the EEF Board for the 2025–2029 term.

Simone Perillo

Simone Perillo (ITA) was elected 1st Vice President, bringing with him significant experience not only from his active involvement on the EEF Board, but also from his leadership roles within the Italian Equestrian Federation and European and international equestrian governance. Perillo has been a driving force behind various development initiatives and has worked closely with stakeholders to strengthen the sport’s structures at both national and continental levels.

Following his election, Perillo expressed his appreciation to the delegates, stating: “I am deeply grateful for this vote of confidence, grazie! I will work with dedication and openness to strengthen our Federation and continue promoting equestrian sport across Europe.”

Peter Cholakov

Peter Cholakov (BUL) was elected 2nd Vice President. Cholakov has played an important role in promoting the growth of equestrian sport in Bulgaria and has been a strong advocate for closer collaboration between National Federations. With his experience as Vice President of the Bulgarian Equestrian Federation, father of young international riders, professional business leadership and his dedication to governance, his appointment reflects the Federation’s commitment to balanced representation and strategic growth.

Mr. Cholakov also thanked the Assembly, adding: “It is a privilege to serve with the EEF. I look forward to contributing constructive ideas and fostering cooperation among all member nations to advance our shared goals.”

Sandra Ruuda

Following three rounds of voting, the General Assembly elected Sandra Ruuda (SWE) as the newest member of the EEF Board. Ruuda brings extensive leadership experience through her work with the Swedish Equestrian Federation, where she has been actively involved in governance, youth development, and strategic planning. She has also played a key role in advancing national and international initiatives to strengthen the sport’s structure, support emerging talent, and foster collaboration across stakeholders. Her broad expertise and commitment to equestrian sport will be a valuable addition to the EEF Board. “I would just like to say a warm thank you from my heart,” Ruuda said. “I look forward to working with the community and thank you for the trust.”

Full Board

The EEF Board now comprises President Quentin Simonet (FRA), 1st Vice President Simone Perillo (ITA), 2nd Vice President Peter Cholakov (BUL), and Members Nayla Stössel (SUI), Soenke Lauterbach (GER), Klaus Roeser (GER), Elisabeth Max-Theurer (AUT), Alan Andabaka (CRO), and Sandra Ruuda (SWE).

The EEF warmly thanked all the candidates who stood for election and expressed their commitment to the Federation. Special thanks were extended to Alan Andabaka (CRO), Kostiantyn Bondariev (UKR), Jim Eyre (GBR) and Zuzana Masarykova (SVK). Although, not elected for the positions they presented for, their dedication and willingness to serve reflect the strong engagement that characterise the European equestrian community.