A Times of India report has revealed that Indian equestrian riders are being required to cover the costs of hay, bedding and fodder for their horses themselves as they prepare for the 2026 Asian Games. Lt Col Sandeep Dewan, who serves as member for administration on the Indian Olympic Association-appointed ad-hoc committee and leads the equestrian team, signed an email outlining the funding shortfall. The message indicated that funds provided to the national federation fell short of covering the bill from transporter Peden Bloodstock, prompting the federation to draw on its own resources to settle the account. Riders now face instructions to buy the necessary stable supplies and request reimbursement at a later date.
The email further stated, “We regret to inform you that the govt has so far not released any funds for payment of feed and other expenses related to the maintenance of the horses whilst in Japan.” This development comes as the multi-sport event is set to begin on September 19 in Japan’s Aichi-Nagoya region. The financial pressure has compounded for the athletes, who already absorbed personal costs during a mandatory quarantine period for the horses in Germany prior to travel.
According to the riders cited in the Times of India report, they personally financed food, travel, accommodation and associated fees throughout the German quarantine process. The ad-hoc committee attributed the situation to a shortage of government funds for the discipline. Such out-of-pocket expenditures place additional strain on athletes who are focusing on competition performance in the lead-up to the opening ceremony.
Sports Ministry data released on September 15 placed total government expenditure on athlete preparations for the Asian Games at Rs 800.7 crore, combining Rs 702.86 crore from the annual competition and training calendar with Rs 97.84 crore from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme. International competition exposure accounted for the largest share at Rs 251.4 crore within that budget. The ministry’s investment has supported a 501-athlete contingent, including 310 first-time participants at the Games.
The Times of India report noted the funding gap for the equestrian team. Dewan’s communication underscored that the delay in fund release has directly impacted on-site maintenance arrangements in Japan. Athletes have been told they can seek formal reimbursement once allocations arrive.
The 2026 Asian Games run through October 4, with India’s shooting events commencing on September 20. Equestrian competitions form part of the early schedule in the Japanese host cities. Officials continue to coordinate with relevant authorities to resolve the outstanding payments and ensure full team readiness.
