Cloning of elite horses gains ground, sparking debate in equestrian sports: 'It changes the rules of the game'

The world of equestrian sports is grappling with a technological shift that could redefine breeding: the cloning of champion horses. As more clones and their offspring enter top-level competitions, experts are debating whether this technology represents the future of the sport or a threat to natural genetic evolution.

Cloning horses has moved beyond scientific curiosity. Argentinian polo player Adolfo Cambiaso, widely regarded as the greatest in history, began creating clones of his top polo ponies in the 2000s. His famous mare Cuartetera's clone sold for $800,000 in 2010, sparking industry-wide interest and the adoption of the technology in other equestrian disciplines.

Recently, at the 2024 World Championship for seven-year-old eventing horses, two competitors, Chilli Morning IV and Chilli Morning II, drew attention for their striking resemblance. Both were clones of the renowned stallion Chilli Morning, a highly successful British competition horse. Rider Julia Krajewski noted that the similarities extended beyond physical appearance, with the clones exhibiting the same strengths, weaknesses, and even behavioral quirks as the original.

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They have the same strengths, the same weaknesses, and even the same behavioral quirks.

Despite the growing visibility of clones in elite competitions, their numbers remain small compared to traditionally bred horses. The phenomenon divides the equestrian community. Supporters view cloning as an opportunity to preserve valuable genetic lines that might otherwise be lost. However, critics, like prominent European breeder Joris de Brabander, warn that excessive use of clones could reduce genetic diversity and limit the chances for new champions to emerge. "I don't think they bring anything new to breeding," de Brabander stated. "There are enough valuable horses without needing clones."

The controversy has reached governing bodies. The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) banned the participation of clones in 2007, though the article notes this ban was later lifted.

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I don't think they bring anything new to breeding. There are enough valuable horses without needing clones.