Haya names Stone for top FEI post

Abu Dhabi: Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain, President of the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), has named Michael Stone as Acting FEI Secretary General.

The decision followed a meeting between Princess Haya, Wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the FEI 1st Vice President Sven Holmberg at the FEI headquarters in Lausanne.

Stone, a former head of the Endurance Committee, replaces Jean-Claude Falciola who stepped down from his position as Ad Interim FEI Secretary General on May 12. He will take up responsibilities of both the Sports Director and Secretary General until a permanent appointment is made, an FEI press release said yesterday. Falciola will remain available to the end of the month to allow a smooth transition.

Princess Haya, said: "Jean-Claude has provided a level of stability in a particularly delicate period for the FEI and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his valuable contribution.

"With Michael Stone taking up the acting position we believe that we can keep the momentum of change going while actively seeking the man or woman who will help fulfil the aspirations laid out in my election manifesto."

The selection process for a permanent FEI Secretary General will be initiated immediately and a decision will be taken after the FEI World Equestrian Games to be held in Aachen, Germany in August.