The European Federation of Thoroughbred Breeders' Associations' 2026 AGM took place in Istanbul, Turkey where representatives of Europe's breeding nations gathered to discuss key challenges and threats facing the European bloodstock industry, including France Galop's recent decision to open the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe to geldings.The June 26 summit hosted discussions on a wide variety of topics in addition to the aforementioned decision regarding the Arc de Triomphe, but it was a key issue that the group brought forward.“The EFTBA expresses its great disappointment that it appears this decision [opening the race to geldings] was taken in complete isolation and without any industry consultation. EFTBA is committed to vigorously contesting this decision in the best interest of the European thoroughbred breeding industry and beyond.”Also a priority was the European Union's (EU) proposed new Animal Welfare in Transport Regulations which, if passed, would have profound implications for the breeding industry. Chair of the MEP Horse Committee Hilde Vautmans recently visited Coolmore Stud and received updated EFTBA recommendations for resolving challenges the industry would face in relation to the new potential regulations. Vautmans also sought input from the organisation on five specific issues relating to the EU Availability of Medicines. Those included the availability of equine medicines and the complex problems arising from a desire for exclusion of specified horses from the food chain.Also discussed during the summit were policies requiring re-testing of mares coming from Continental Europe prior to covering (the matter was tabled until the International Code of Practice meeting July 2); the spread of West Nile Fever and a potential for mandatory vaccinations; and the growing number of Equine Influenza cases reported in France, Ireland, and the UK.The post Arc de Triomphe Decision, Welfare Regulations Key Discussions at EFTBA 2026 AGM appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.