Selection for the World Class Programme

Selection for the World Class Performance Programme is based on past and present results combined with a rider’s perceived potential to contribute to team success at major championships. The squad is selected following discussions between the discipline selectors, the World Class Performance Managers and the Equestrian Performance Director.

World Class Performance Programme

Riders on the Performance Programme are reviewed on a six-monthly basis, when targets, the support provided and the funding available are agreed. The programme supports elite preparation and performance at senior international level.

World Class Development Programme

The World Class Development Programme is designed to optimise long-term GBR podium success on the world stage through the identification and development of potential world-class athletes and athlete/equine combinations. It underpins the Performance Programme by building the pipeline beneath the senior squads.

Selection to the Development squad runs on a two-yearly basis. That cycle is not rigid: a rider can be brought onto the programme during the two-year window, or removed from it if agreed targets are not being met.

How riders progress

The two programmes together form a pathway — from emerging talent on the Development squad through to fully funded elite athletes on the Performance Programme — with selection reviewed regularly against results and potential rather than fixed for the duration of a cycle.