A Comprehensive Review of Vet and Stewards’ List Categories is Coming, with Changes Planned for 2026
An independent update initiative announced by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) aims to refresh the veterinarians' list and stewards' list categories used across U.S. Thoroughbred racing. The goal is to modernize these oversight tools and enhance national safety metrics, with implementation targeted for 2026.
Purposeful modernization will involve a complete audit of current veterinarians' and stewards' list categories across racetracks, state racing commissions, and HISA’s rules. Early in 2026, HISA plans to distribute a thorough survey to regulatory veterinarians and stewards and will also conduct in-person interviews with both groups. The objective is to capture current practices, document how vets’ lists vary by jurisdiction, and identify where differences exist.
After gathering information, HISA will perform an internal analysis to detect patterns, gaps, and potential updates. The next phase involves collaborating with advisory groups to assess possible pathways for updating the veterinarians' and stewards' list categories. This process will involve broad stakeholder engagement, including horse owners, trainers, racing offices, attending veterinarians, and other participants in the industry. Input from these groups will guide the development of a practical, fair system that aligns with the industry’s commitment to equine welfare.
Dr. Jennifer Durenberger, HISA’s director of equine safety and welfare, emphasized that the current list structures—rooted in decades-old legacy categories—vary widely by state and track and may no longer fit a modern, national racing landscape. She expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that it will bring clarity, consistency, and fairness to a system that affects horses, veterinarians, trainers, and owners alike.
HISA’s overarching aim is to promote equity among all stakeholders and to increase transparency around national safety metrics, while ensuring appropriate protections for horses deemed at higher risk of injury.
Upon completion, HISA will publish its findings and present a plan for modernized veterinarians' and stewards' list categories for public consideration.
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What are your thoughts on standardizing these lists nationwide? Should the focus be more on uniform criteria, or is local flexibility essential to address regional differences? Share your views in the comments and join the discussion.
