The atmosphere is typical Christmas. But in Oristano, once the faces of the two Componidori have been revealed, the Sartiglia wind is already blowing strongly. Anticipation is growing for the joust on February 15th and 17th, also because the long-established organization is being overshadowed by the Prime Ministerial Decree of January 8th, 2025, with new rules for the protection of riders, horses, and spectators at historical and sporting events.
The Ministry of Sport's decree prioritizes the protection of animals and athletes, seeking to safeguard the historical and identity-building value of the events. Specifically for the Sartiglia, as was the case a few months ago with the Ardia di Sedilo, the most controversial provision concerns the safety of the riders. The Prime Ministerial Decree mandates the general obligation to wear protective gear such as helmets and vests, but this immediately sparks debate : wearing such protective measures, including masks, traditional clothing, and costumes, appears to be quite complicated. This delicate issue is already being discussed by the Sartiglia Committee, which has been conducting a series of assessments and in-depth studies for weeks to try to reach a solution.
The first answers will be available in a few weeks, but the Prime Ministerial Decree also includes some changes for horses: only animals at least four years old will be able to participate. It's unclear whether there will be any restrictions for thoroughbreds, but the risk seems to have been averted. Other changes concern the sandy surface of the course, which will have to be certified by specialized technicians. The Prime Ministerial Decree also provides for doping and breathalyzer tests for riders, and the presence of a veterinary ambulance on the course: all aspects that have been part of the joust's organization for years.
