In response to the alleged participation of Rodrigo Pessoa at the upcoming Global Champions Tour Final in Sao Paolo (BRA) to be held from 15 to 19 October, the FEI stands by the decision of the Tribunal which stated that Rodrigo Pessoa “is suspended for a period of four and a half months (135 days), which period began on the date of the application of the provisional suspension, 29 August 2008, and shall run up to 10 January 2009.”

In order to have the suspension lifted, Rodrigo Pessoa must obtain a decision from the the Court of Arbitration for Sport, however, as this has not been the case, the above decision still applies and Rodrigo Pessoa remains suspended and is therefore not permitted to compete at any international event.

“We understand that he has obtained an injunction from a national court compelling the Brazilian National Federation to enter him in the event,” said Alexander McLin, FEI Secretary General, of Pessoa. “That he should take such action is highly disappointing and inappropriate for a sportsman in his position. We will take all necessary further disciplinary action should local court orders or circumstances allow him to take part in the competition. Any result obtained by him in an international competition while under suspension would be void.”