The Sports Horse Research Center (CRCS) is based at the Department of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Perugia. Since its establishment in 1992, the Center has been involved in the morpho-functional genetic improvement of Italian warmblood populations (mainly Maremmano Horse, Italian Saddle Horse, Italian Trotter, Anglo-Arabian) with particular interest to the welfare of the horse, a fundamental aspect in the evaluation of an athlete.

In brief, the research activity concerns:
- characterization and protection of the biodiversity of the indigenous populations, representatives of unique natural, cultural and productive environments;
- genetic selection and study of uniparental heritage (mitochondrial DNA, Y chromosome) for the characterization of the female and male lines of the main Italian breed;
- molecular genetics and “omic” studies ;
- stem cells;
- health evaluation, diagnostics, clinical effects, and training;
- infectious diseases.

The work accomplished over the years has led to the creation of a database that may be used for uncountable scientific studies. Moreover, its members are an active part in national and international scientific associations and frameworks.
The activity of the Center has not only had a crucial scientific impact but acts as a fundamental flywheel of the national equine sector, with a broad practical and applicative impact on the productive and social sphere of the territory. Special attention is dedicated to safeguarding the cultural identity that binds the horse to Italian excellence.