The Mongolian government lifted its ban on springtime horse racing on January 29, returning some traditional events while keeping winter races banned. The original ban, in force since 2019, followed two Supreme Court rulings in 2017–2018. Those rulings ended the state-backed spring race Dunjingariv and prohibited training child jockeys for winter and spring competitions; the government then issued a decree to ban all winter and spring races.
Under the new rules, races may take place from March 1 and the government says "the authority and responsibility for organizing" spring horse races will be passed to local authorities. The decision followed a protest on January 25 in Sukhbaatar square, Ulaanbaatar, where horsemen urged officials to restore spring racing and protect equestrian traditions rather than move them abroad.
Child jockey safety is the clearest source of controversy. In Mongolia it is customary for boys aged 5 to 13 to race because of their small size. Between 1996 and 2024, 53 child jockeys died after falling from horses. From 2017 to 2024, 3,070 children fell off horses and 16 became disabled. Other concerns include effects on education and possible exploitation: in 2024 there were 11,000 registered child jockeys, only about 1,000 rode their own horses, many received below the minimum wage, and for 2,002 it was unclear if they were paid.
Supporters argue lifting the ban protects cultural heritage and stops horsemen taking traditions and animals to China’s Inner Mongolia. Critics, including MP Khurelbaataryn Baasanjargal, say spring racing is a relatively recent practice and that preserving culture should not put children at risk. Tensions are heightened by the influence of powerful interests: the prime minister and more than a dozen cabinet ministers reportedly own many thoroughbred horses, and the Mongolian Equestrian Federation has over 100,000 members.
Difficult words
- decree — official order by a government
- protest — public action to show disagreement
- jockey — person who rides racehorses professionallyjockeys
- equestrian — related to horses or horse riding
- exploitation — unfair use of people or resources
- thoroughbred — horse breed used for racing
- register — to record a name or detail officiallyregistered
- controversy — public disagreement or heated argument
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think local authorities can organise spring races while protecting child jockeys? Explain your view.
- What specific measures could reduce risks to child jockeys without ending spring racing? Give examples.
- How should the government balance preserving cultural traditions with ensuring child safety in events like these?
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