The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (the NHA) confirms that its National Board of Directors has unanimously adopted the amendments to Appendix E – Use of the Crop and the associated Crop Penalty Document, as proposed by the Rules Committee on 25 February 2026.
The Rules Committee, which is representative of the entire horseracing industry, comprises National Board Directors, NHA Executive Management, and stakeholders drawn from Operators, Owners, Trainers and Jockeys. The amendments therefore reflect a consultative, industry-wide process and a shared commitment to equine welfare, regulatory certainty, and the integrity of the sport.
The revised framework provides clearer guidance to riders and officials on acceptable crop use and the consequences of non-compliance. In summary:
* The maximum permitted use of the crop has been amended from the current twelve (12) to ten (10) strikes per race.
* Penalties, which have been fully revised, commence at the 11th strike, escalating in a structured and proportionate manner.
* More serious or repeated contraventions may attract suspensions and, in exceptional cases, referral to a designated crop panel, which has discretion to consider additional penalties where conduct is particularly egregious or falls outside standard parameters.
The revised Rules further reinforce that the crop may be used only for encouragement, guidance, and safety, and never in a manner that compromises the welfare of the horse.
The NHA confirms that the revised Use of the Crop Rules and Penalty framework will take full effect on 1 April 2026.
In recognition of the significance of the amendments, the NHA has approved a one-month implementation moratorium from 1 to 31 March 2026, inclusive. During this period, the current Use of the Crop Guidelines and penalties will remain in force, while riders are afforded an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new requirements. Instances of conduct that would contravene the new framework will be brought to the attention of riders for educational purposes ahead of full enforcement.
From 1 April 2026, the amended Crop Penalty Framework will apply in full. The NHA emphasises that the crop penalty framework is no longer a guideline, but a binding Rule, and will be enforced accordingly.
The unanimous adoption of these amendments by both the Rules Committee and the National Board reflects a shared, industry-wide commitment to horse welfare and a clear, consistent regulatory approach to the use of the crop. - NHA