Further to the notice published by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) in January 2025, the IFHA wishes to re-confirm that, from 1 January 2027, the International Agreement on Breeding, Racing and Wagering (IABRW) will contain a total ban on bisphosphonates (BPs).
In light of the significant welfare-related concerns associated with the use of BPs, including BP-induced interference to bone adaptation and remodeling in growing and exercising horses (potentially resulting in an increased risk of fracture), and evidence that BPs have an analgesic effect (and may be used/abused for this effect), the IFHA is of the view that a total ban is necessary.
Under the revised provisions in the IABRW, use of BPs – except those used for diagnostic nuclear imaging – for horses of all ages will be prohibited at all times. Any horse which has been administered a BP on or after 1 January 2027 will be subject to a minimum 6 month stand down from racing and be required to pass a veterinary examination before returning to racing.
To assist racing authorities with the introduction of the total ban under the IABRW, the IFHA reiterates its recommendation that, as soon as practicable, racing authorities require mandatory reporting of all BP administrations to horses of any age (if not already required). This will help enable an understanding of the prevalence of current BP use by jurisdiction and provide a record of all treated horses prior to the introduction of the total ban.
Buyers of horses, both before and after 1 January 2027, should be encouraged by racing authorities to ascertain whether such horses have been administered any BP, and to consider arranging BPs testing, before finalising their purchase. A horse that has been administered a BP prior to 1 January 2027 will remain subject to the current rules in the IABRW and, in these cases, purchasers should ensure they obtain veterinary records to verify the administration details.