Securing the private purchase of a sport or racehorse

The private sale is the main method of acquiring sport horses. This method is also used for racehorses, particularly certain breeding horses. Less formal than an auction, it remains legally sensitive. A well-drafted sales contract, a pre-purchase veterinary examination, and a trial of the horse are essential guarantees to avoid disputes. INSCIO Avocats supports you in securing each step of your transaction.

Why formalize the sale with an adapted and personalized contract?

The private sale is based on a direct agreement between seller and buyer. This agreement must concern the price and the horse, as well as accessory elements such as payment and transport terms.

It is therefore essential to :

  • Define the item sold (identity of the horse, performance, health condition)
  • Frame the payment terms (price, deadlines, guarantees)
  • Specify the suspensive conditions (vet results, trial outcome)
  • Include liability clauses in case of defect or dispute, comply with the seller’s pre-contractual information obligation.

The trial of the sport horse – A key step

Before deciding to buy, it is recommended to try the horse in real conditions (training, ridden session). This trial allows the buyer to verify the horse’s behavior, responsiveness, and suitability for their sporting or commercial goals.

The trial must be formalized by written authorization from the seller, specifying responsibilities in case of incident.

The trial conditions are freely negotiated between the seller and the buyer.

The pre-purchase veterinary examination – Securing the health condition

The pre-purchase veterinary examination is an essential step:

  • It allows detection of any defects that may compromise the horse’s use
  • May include specific tests (locomotion, respiration, imaging)
  • And may be carried out before signing the contract or as part of a suspensive condition.

Legal support – Anticipating risks

INSCIO Avocats helps you:

  • Draft or review the sales contract
  • Frame the suspensive conditions
  • Anticipate tax and asset risks
  • Manage post-sale disputes (defect, non-payment, delivery failure, lack of pre-contractual information).

Our expertise in the equine sector allows you to secure your acquisition and defend your interests.

Contact us to secure your private purchase of a sport or racehorse.