Equestrianism is very popular in France, with more and more people becoming interested since the 20th century. At the end of 2022, the French Equestrian Federation counted 625,258 licensed members. This places equestrianism as the third most practiced sport in the country.
There are about 2.3 million riders in France, most of whom belong to the middle class. Equestrianism is therefore an important economic sector. It employs nearly 45,000 people and generates a turnover of 1 billion euros.

Key Points:
- In 2022, the French Equestrian Federation had 625,258 licensed members.
- Equestrianism is the third most practiced sport in France.
- The number of French riders, both professional and occasional, stands at 2.3 million.
- Equestrianism employs about 45,000 people and represents a turnover of 1 billion euros.
- France is a renowned equestrian nation, a leader in organizing equestrian competitions.
Equestrianism: a popular sport in the midst of democratization
Since the 20th century, equestrianism has gained much popularity. More young people and women are engaging in this sport. The French Equestrian Federation indicates that 625,258 licensed members were counted in 2022. This places equestrianism third among the most practiced sports in France.
Several factors explain this popularity. Equestrian centers have become more accessible, offering horses for everyone. The teaching of equestrianism has also evolved, reaching a broader audience, from beginners to experienced riders.
Equestrianism has become a leisure sport in France, attracting enthusiasts from all backgrounds. The sports license figures show a discipline on the rise.
| Year | Number of licensed members |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 610,000 |
| 2020 | 585,000 |
| 2021 | 625,258 |
The democratization of equestrianism shows the growing interest of the French in equestrian sports. They now practice at all levels, from high competition to club rides.
The teaching of equestrianism in France: equestrian centers for all levels
In France, more than 8,000 equestrian centers offer equestrianism to everyone. They are crucial for making this equestrian sport accessible to all. Each center has trained horses for beginners and experts.
The equestrian centers offer numerous activities. They range from beginner lessons to training courses for improvement. Licensed riders can learn various equestrian disciplines with qualified instructors.
The equestrian clubs are more than just a place of learning. They are also a place for meeting and sharing values. They help riders grow personally and feel good, making equestrianism even more popular in France.

The equestrian centers are essential for equestrianism in France. With their facilities and teaching, they make equestrianism accessible to all.
Equestrianism number of licensed members
In France, equestrianism is very popular, with about 2.3 million people riding a horse. This includes both professionals and amateurs. This activity attracts many people from the middle class, despite the costs.
The French Equestrian Federation is crucial for equestrianism in France. At the end of 2022, it counted more than 625,258 licensed members. This places equestrianism as the third most practiced sport in France.
A practice rooted in all social backgrounds
Equestrianism is no longer a sport for the elite. It has become more accessible. Today, riders of all ages and backgrounds can be found in equestrian clubs and equestrian centers.
| Category of practitioners | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Youth | 40% |
| Women | 70% |
| Middle class | Majority |
The popularity of equestrianism shows its appeal to the French. It attracts both casual enthusiasts and dedicated practitioners of equestrian sports and equestrian disciplines.
The economic impact of equestrianism in France
Equestrianism is more than just a sport in France; it is a major economic sector. It employs 45,000 people and generates a turnover of nearly 1 billion euros.
A dynamic economic sector
The equestrian sector includes many equestrian centers and clubs. It offers various jobs, such as instructors, grooms, farriers, and specialized veterinarians.
Equestrianism also creates indirect economic benefits. It influences hospitality, catering, and tourism. Competitions attract spectators and visitors, boosting the local economy.
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of direct jobs in equestrianism | About 45,000 |
| Annual turnover of the sector | About 1 billion euros |
Equestrianism is a dynamic and diverse economic sector. It plays an important role in the French economy.

France, a renowned equestrian nation
France is well known in the world of equestrianism. It is the leading country for equestrian competitions recognized by the International Equestrian Federation. This demonstrates France's excellence and recognized expertise internationally.
France is also highly regarded for its equestrian tourism. With its beautiful landscapes and numerous equestrian centers, it attracts equestrian sports enthusiasts from everywhere. This strengthens its reputation as a leading equestrian nation.
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of equestrian competitions organized | World leader |
| Equestrian tourism destination | First in the world |
| Number of licensed riders | 625,258 (2022) |
France is very renowned in the world of equestrianism. Its leadership in competitions and equestrian tourism attracts enthusiasts from everywhere. It has become a must-visit place for lovers of equestrian sports.
The equestrian disciplines practiced in France
In France, equestrian enthusiasts have access to numerous disciplines. Eventing, horseball, and endurance are among the options. However, show jumping dominates, representing 80% of competitions.
The practice of horseback riding in France is rich and varied. Licensed riders find their happiness in several equestrian sports. Show jumping, eventing, and endurance are very popular among the licensed members of the French Equestrian Federation.
The diversity of equestrian disciplines shows the commitment of equestrian clubs and equestrian centers. With 2.3 million practitioners, equestrianism is very popular. It has gained popularity, becoming a sport accessible to all.
| Equestrian discipline | Share in competitions |
|---|---|
| Show jumping | 80% |
| Eventing | 10% |
| Endurance | 5% |
| Horseball | 5% |
Conclusion
Equestrianism has gained many supporters in France since the 20th century. Today, it is the third most popular sport, with 625,000 licensed members in 2022. It also creates many jobs and generates about 1 billion euros annually.
France is well known for its love of horses. It hosts major competitions and attracts many equestrian tourists. Show jumping is the most practiced equestrian sport, accounting for 80% of competitions.
In short, equestrianism is very important in France, both for culture and for the economy. It has gained popularity and continues to attract more enthusiasts.
FAQ
What is the number of licensed members in the French Equestrian Federation?
At the end of 2022, the French Equestrian Federation had 625,258 licensed members. This places equestrianism as the third most practiced sport in France.
How has the practice of equestrianism evolved over time?
In the 20th century, equestrianism saw great popularity. The number of riders increased, especially among young people and women.
What is the basis of leisure equestrianism in France?
Leisure equestrianism in France relies on more than 8,000 equestrian centers. These centers offer trained horses to the public.
How many French riders, both professional and occasional, practice equestrianism?
About 2.3 million people in France, primarily from the middle class, practice equestrianism. This includes both professionals and amateurs.
What is the economic importance of equestrianism in France?
Equestrianism creates about 45,000 jobs in France. It generates a turnover of approximately 1 billion euros.
What is France's international reputation in the field of equestrianism?
France is a world leader in equestrian competitions recognized by the International Equestrian Federation. It is also the top destination for equestrian tourism.
What are the main equestrian disciplines practiced in France?
In France, there are many equestrian disciplines. Among them, show jumping is the most common, representing nearly 80% of competitions.
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