Press release from EEF

On Sunday, 30 March 2025, the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) Board gathered in Lausanne (SUI) for an in-person meeting. During this session, the Board addressed key issues related to the organisation's leadership structure and governance framework. 
 
As communicated in February, EEF President Theo Ploegmakers submitted his resignation, effective 1 April 2025, due to health-related reasons. The EEF Board expresses profound appreciation for the remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment demonstrated by Ploegmakers throughout his tenure at the federation’s helm and for his exceptional leadership. 
 
In accordance with the EEF Statutes (Articles 22 and 25), as well as Section 4 and Annexes of the Internal Regulations, the EEF Board, with legal counsel, has resolved to entrust the current 1st Vice President, George Dimaras, with the role of Interim President. Dimaras will serve in this capacity until the next Ordinary General Assembly, scheduled for 7 October 2025 in San Marino, where elections for the positions of EEF President, 1st Vice President, and other open Board positions will take place. 

"I am deeply honoured to have been entrusted with this position as Interim President", George Dimaras, EEF Interim President said. "I recognise the significant responsibility this role carries and am committed to providing steady leadership during this transition period. Working collaboratively with our National Federations and stakeholders we will continue to strengthen our equestrian community across Europe. Together, we will build upon the solid foundation laid by President Ploegmakers while preparing the organisation for its next chapter of growth and excellence."
 
Since November 2024, the EEF Board has been conducting a comprehensive review of the Statutes to ensure they reflect best practices in governance and support the Federation's future development. The Board has finalised a proposal for the revised Statutes, which will be shared with National Federations and stakeholders in April for consultation and feedback. The Board will also convene an online Extraordinary General Assembly in June 2025 solely for the adoption of the revised Statutes. 
 
The EEF Board remains committed to transparency and open communication with National Federations and stakeholders during this pivotal period of organisational development. The Federation anticipates constructive dialogue throughout the upcoming consultation process, as collective efforts shape the EEF's future direction.

Founded in 2009, the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) is the representative body for the European based National equestrian Federations. Working closely with the Federation Internationale Equestre (FEI) and the National Federations, the EEF works to maximize the potential and development of equestrianism throughout the continent. The EEF is committed to promoting the sport equestrianism and its good practices, developing the sport across Europe, and providing leadership for a collective European voice in the sport.