Italians’ legal fight over at last
THE Italian equestrian federation (FISE) has dropped its case against dressage trainer Enzo Truppa after a long legal battle.
FISE started action against Enzo and his equestrian centre ASD Monferrato after his daughter Valentina’s top horse, Eremo Del Castegno, was sold to Brazil before the Olympic Games (news, 3 April, 2016).
The horse had achieved qualifying results for Rio with Valentina, but was sold in January.
FISE said the sale was a breach of contract, which Enzo disputed.
“The agreement signed in 2012 provided that FISE had to make a financial contribution towards the preparation of Eremo Del Castegno, as well as other financial commitments toward ASD Monferrato, with a view to the combination participating for Italy at the 2016 Olympic Games,” FISE told this week.
After the sale, FISE requested legal assistance for the return of its €280,000 (£245,000) contribution, which had been paid until the sale, plus damages.
Enzo also started a legal case for the contract to be fulfilled with the payment of the remaining €70,000 (£61,250) to him plus €280,000 damages for the effect on ASD Monferrato’s image and €30,000 (£26,250) for damages to his own image.
The matter has now been resolved and Valentina — who had chosen not to stand for Italian team selection while the dispute was ongoing — is now competing.
“Given the availability of Enzo to resolve the question amicably, FISE, who does not wish to maintain a state of conflict with Valentina, an exceptional athlete and trainer, has agreed to settle a deal with no further expense from either party,” added the FISE spokesman. No money changed hands during the proceedings.
Enzo said he is pleased to see Valentina back in competition.
“Last month (25-28 May) in Lipica she was third in the World Cup grand prix freestyle with Ranieri and won the five-year-old class with Smile Di Fonteabeti,” he said. “We are on the road again, being sport people we only look forward. For the past troubles: game over!”