Canadian Mark Samuel Announces Bid for FEI Presidency

Dressage

Canada

The 62-year old Canadian businessman and former equestrian Mark Samuel has made his run for FEI Presidency known by sending an open letter to all NF Presidents and secretary generals, NOCs, NPCs, Board Members and the Equestrian Industry.

Two Known to be in the Running

The third term of FEI president Ingmar de Vos is coming to an end and a new one will be elected at the 2026 FEI General Assembly. At the moment one candidate has publicly stepped forward with his bid for the position: Mark Samuel. The second rumoured candidate is current FEI secretary-general Sabrina Ibanez, but this has not been confirmed. The deadline for bids closes on 1 June 2026.

Samuel has served for seven years as FEI vice-president. He represented Canada in show jumping between 1999 and 2003. Samuel's family owns the Canadian multinational metal working company Samuel, Son & Co and the Thoroughbred breeding operation Sam-Son Farm, which has produced Breeders' Cup winners. He is a former director of the Ontario Equestrian Federation (OEF), the Canadian Equestrian Federation, co-founder of the Ontario Hunter Jumper Association (OHJA), co-founder, past chair and current committee member of Jump Canada, Chair of the Jump Canada Hall of Fame. He is a former Group IV Chair (North America).

Open Letter

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Under the detailed, dynamic, and visionary leadership of our President, Mr. Ingmar De Vos, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has rightfully earned its place among the leading international sports federations of the world. Now, after 12 years of his tenure, it is time to consider who is best suited to maintain and build upon the strong foundation that has been established. Today, I humbly announce my intention to be considered for that privilege and responsibility.

For those who may not know me, I look forward to the opportunity to introduce myself once the official campaign period commences this summer. Having enjoyed a successful business career, I am also a former High Performance Equestrian Athlete and a life-long volunteer who most recently served three terms as FEI Board member and seven years as FEI Vice President. I bring forward a proven track record of integrity, leadership, consensus-building, and experience.

Ingmar de Vos and Mark Samuel at the 2024
FEI General Assembly in Abu Dhabi

I recently attended the 15th FEI Sports Forum in Lausanne. It was impressive to witness the strength of our community, the optimism for the future, and the willingness to engage constructively. Having the voice of our FEI youth present at this year’s event added a fresh and dynamic perspective that suggests that the future of our sport is in good hands. I also have very much appreciated the numerous confidential personal approaches regarding the Presidential role and the encouragement to put my name forward. I have therefore resolved that the most genuine and transparent approach is to convey my intention to stand for election to our Equestrian sport family. It would be an honour to bring forward my background, skills, and experience in service to the industry and horses that we love.

Going forward, I will be complying with the detailed application process and deadlines. In the coming months, I look forward to engaging in an active listening process and embracing constructive dialogue with all stakeholders regarding the future of the FEI and your priorities within that future. It is a time for all voices, great and small, to be heard, considered, and valued.

Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely,
Mark Samuel
Canada

Photos © FEI