What is the para dressage Freestyle?
I · Intermediate · Competition · 3 of 3The Freestyle is a test to music. At CPEDI1* and 2* riders need a 60% average over the two tests; at 3* the best third per Grade qualify, at 60%. It lasts 4 to 4.5 minutes for Grades I to III and 4.5 to 5 for IV and V. A movement banned for the Grade costs eight marks a judge each time.
How it works
- Music: the rider's own choreography.
- CPEDI1 and 2:** 60% average over two tests.
- CPEDI3:* best third per Grade, at least eight, 60%.
- Championships: best eight per Grade.
- Length: 4 to 4.5 minutes, or 4.5 to 5 minutes.
- Banned movements: set by Grade.
- Penalty: eight marks a judge each time.
- Too long or short: 0.5% off the artistic score.
The glossary has the freestyle qualification (para dressage), the freestyle tests (para dressage), the percentage score (para dressage), the ties (para dressage), the Grade (para dressage) and the starting order draw (para dressage).
Tricky cases
A Grade II rider canters in the Freestyle. Eliminated?
No. Eight marks a judge, and a low choreography mark.
How is the Freestyle order drawn?
In groups of four, lowest scorers first.
Two riders tie in the Freestyle. Who wins?
The higher artistic mark.
Is the 60% rule at CPEDI1* new?
Yes, for 2026.
Why the rule exists
Banned movements stop riders showing work beyond their Grade's test. The 60% bar keeps the Freestyle for well-prepared pairs.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Grades I to III | 4 to 4.5 minutes | 8417.6 |
| Grades IV and V | 4.5 to 5 minutes | 8417.6 |
| Championships | Best eight | 8404.3 |
From the rule book
FEI, Para Dressage Rules, 4th edition (1 January 2026), articles 8404.3, 8414, 8417.6 and 8422.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: FEI Para Dressage Rules, 4th edition.