A critical blow has been dealt to the Bromont 2018 WEG, as Carla Qualtrough, the Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, has declined to support the event.
“The federal government can not support the presentation of the 2018 World Equestrian Games through Sport Canada. The Games have an approximate $100 million budget. The financial viability of this project raises concerns because nearly $66.6 million of revenue must come from the private sector. To date, the private sector has confirmed no contribution, nor an endorser in case of deficit,” was the quote from the Press Secretary of Minister Qualtrough, reported in La Voix De L’Est.
Aside from financial support, the federal government’s help would have been necessary for security, transportation, import/export, etc.
The FEI is struggling to find a solution. “We are looking at how we can work together with Equestrian Canada and the remaining members of the COJEM Board to deliver the Games,” commented an FEI spokesperson. “A good solution will be found, but in the interests of our whole community, we have the responsibility to ask the right questions and protect the future of our flagship events.”
Stay tuned as Horse Sport learns more.
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