A total of 105 of the 137 national federations have been identified as eligible for support from the fund, which will provide targeted financial assistance to boost grass roots equestrian activities at riding clubs and schools, particularly the care and upkeep of horses.

Just over CHF 1 million (£860,000/$1.1 million/€930,000) has been committed to the fund.

It is part of a CHF 3 million (£2.6 million/$3.3 million/€2.8 million) pledge in funding through FEI Solidarity. 

Allocation of funds to over 40 projects in 23 countries and other development initiatives will go forward for approval at the FEI General Assembly, set to be hosted online in November.

"The pandemic has had a devastating impact globally, and a major adverse effect on the equestrian world in general but some countries, especially those that had fewer economic resources to begin with, have been hit particularly hard," said FEI President and FEI Solidarity Committee chair Ingmar De Vos.

"The COVID-19 Relief Fund will provide a financial injection aimed at maintaining equestrian activities in these countries and we hope that it will allow these communities to withstand the current economic difficulties created by the pandemic.

"The FEI has had to undertake cost saving measures across the board, but without impacting essential services to our community.

"While this has meant the cancellation or postponement of what we have identified as ‘non-essential’ projects, that has not affected FEI Solidarity, which makes funds available so that we can provide support to those most in need, particularly in the COVID-19 era.

"We want our community to know that we are constantly listening to and monitoring their needs and that we are committed to assisting them during this difficult time."

During their meeting, the FEI Solidarity Committee also agreed to make available emergency funding for Lebanon to assist the country’s recovery from the explosion in Beirut in August. 

The funds will be issued to provide vital support to ensure horse welfare.

The Committee also awarded the first FEI Gender Equality Grant to Costa Rica to support the organisation in its courses promoting female participation and development at all levels of the sport.

"We’re fully committed to providing our members with the tools and resources that will help to develop our sport, and promote the values which are at the heart of our community," De Vos said.

"Gender equality is inherent in our competition structure and we are dedicated to ensuring that this is replicated at all levels of management throughout the industry.

"Now, more than ever, we need to stay positive and take concrete action that will assure our long term future. 

"We’re at a crunch point and it is important for us to work together to ensure our collective well-being in the future."