The case centers on Joris Vanspringel, a Belgian equestrian rider, who appealed a decision by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the South African Equestrian Federation (SAEF) concerning allegations of horse abuse during a clinic in South Africa in November 2018. The FEI Tribunal initially found Vanspringel guilty under Article 142 of its General Regulations, imposing a nine-month suspension, a fine of CHF 3,000, and an additional CHF 3,000 for procedural costs. Vanspringel denied the charges and appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), requesting provisional measures, which were denied. The CAS appointed Jeffrey Benz as the sole arbitrator. During a hearing on December 10, 2019, the parties reached a settlement agreement that reduced Vanspringel’s suspension to six months (from August 15, 2019, to February 15, 2020), maintained the fine, and required each party to bear their own legal costs. The settlement was submitted to the CAS for ratification and incorporation into a consent award under Article R65 of the CAS Code and Swiss law to ensure enforceability and res judicata effect. The sole arbitrator verified the agreement’s legitimacy and compliance with public policy before issuing the consent award, thereby resolving the dispute. The CAS confirmed its jurisdiction under FEI regulations and deemed the appeal admissible, as it was filed within the stipulated time frame.
The settlement agreement dismissed all charges against Vanspringel, nullifying the FEI Tribunal’s earlier decision, though the fine, which had already been paid, remained valid. The CAS, acting under Article R65 of its Code, confirmed the settlement through a Consent Award, granting it legal enforceability under Swiss law. The Sole Arbitrator reviewed the settlement to ensure it was made in good faith, without fraud, and in compliance with public policy and applicable laws, finding no grounds for objection. Additionally, the parties agreed not to require the CAS to provide reasons for the provisional measures requested by Vanspringel, an exception accepted due to the case’s unique circumstances. The Consent Award formally terminated the arbitration case (CAS 2019/A/6240) and obligated both parties to adhere to the settlement terms, dismissing all other motions or requests for relief. The award, issued on February 5, 2010, marked the final resolution of the dispute. The settlement represented a comprehensive and binding conclusion to the matter.