LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 15, 2026) — The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) announced today that CEO William J. (“Bill”) Moroney has made the decision to retire at the end of 2026 after ten years leading the organization.

Moroney joined USEF as CEO after a career that has touched nearly every corner of the sport. He spent over three decades as a professional trainer, has been a licensed “R” judge in hunter and hunter seat equitation for more than 20 years, served on over 17 Federation committees and working groups, and sat on USEF’s first Board of Directors. He was also instrumental in founding the United States Hunter Jumper Association, serving as its first president and helping grow it into USEF’s largest affiliate.

Over the past decade, the Federation has grown its membership and fans, strengthened its programs and competitions, and broadened its support for athletes and horses at every level of the sport. Moroney said the organization is on strong footing for its next chapter, and that the time is right for new leadership to build on that success.

“It has been one of the highlights of my life to lead this Federation, and I am deeply proud of all we have accomplished together over these ten years,” Moroney said. “This organization is strong, its future is bright, and the time is right for the next leader to take it even further. I will be cheering this sport on for the rest of my life.”

The timing of Moroney’s decision is deliberate, as the term of USEF Board President Tom O’Mara will conclude at the end of 2028. Moroney feels strongly that it is best for the Federation that the president and CEO positions not change over too closely in time.

O’Mara paid tribute to Moroney’s leadership and his impact on the sport.

“Few people have given more to equestrian sport than Bill Moroney,” O’Mara said. “For a decade, he has led this Federation with vision, integrity, and a genuine love of the sport, and we are far stronger for it. On behalf of our entire community, I want to thank him, celebrate everything he has built, and wish him every joy in what comes next. His mark on this sport will be felt for generations.”

The President will work with the Board of Directors on the process for identifying the next USEF chief executive.

While horses and equestrian sport will remain an important and irreplaceable part of his life, Moroney looks forward to spending more time with family and friends upon retirement.