The International Equestrian Federation's ruling Bureau withdrew the event from the Mexican city, which they had been awarded last June, because they were unable to meet in full the requirements imposed on them by the world governing body. 

The decision by the FEI is a massive blow to the creditability of Guadalajara, who are one of five bidders for the 2018 Youth Olympics, alongisde Buenos Aires, Glasgow, Medellín and Rotterdam 

There were already doubts over their ability to stage the event when the city was left with a debt of 399 million pesos (£19 million/$30 million/€24 million) after hosting the 2011 Pan American and Parapan Games.

Guadalajara, Mexico's third biggest city located in the state of Jalisco, had been awarded the event by the FEI ahead of Las Vegas, who have now been contacted to see if they are still interested in hosting the finals. 

Guadalajara hosted a successful Pan American Games in 2011 but it left the city with a massive debt

But if they are awarded the event it will be on condition of organisers fulfilling all the requirements. 

"The FEI truly appreciates the efforts that the Guadalajara organisers put in to try and meet all the requirements," said FEI secretary general Ingmar De Vos.

"But as they were unable to fulfil them within the agreed timeline, the FEI Bureau was left with no choice but to withdraw the finals.

"In spite of this set-back, we hope that the Mexican Federation will consider hosting a major FEI event in the future, as we are very keen to see a world-class equestrian event organised in the region."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
September 2012: Guadalajara confident of paying off 2011 Pan American Games debt
August 2012: Guadalajara bid for 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games in danger over unpaid debts