Australian Olympian Heath Ryan has been provisionally suspended by Equestrian Australia after a video surfaced showing him repeatedly whipping a horse.
The 66-year-old dressage rider, who represented Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is seen in the video striking the horse approximately 40 times.
Ryan confirmed that the footage, which has drawn widespread criticism, was recorded about two years ago and involved a horse named Nico.
In a statement, Ryan claimed his actions were in the horse’s best interest, explaining that Nico had a history of behavioral issues and had previously injured a female rider.
Ryan expressed regret that the video was recorded but insisted it was a “life or death moment” for the horse, and that he was trying to rehabilitate it rather than send it to be euthanized.
Despite the controversy, Ryan said the situation had a positive outcome for the horse, which he was later able to rehome.
Equestrian Australia responded to the video by confirming it had received a formal complaint and issued a provisional suspension, barring Ryan from all competitions and events.
The organization stated it was “extremely alarmed and concerned” by the treatment of the horse depicted in the footage.
Equestrian Australia emphasized that its policies are designed to uphold high welfare standards and protect horses and riders from physical, emotional, and social harm.
The incident follows a similar controversy involving British Olympic champion Charlotte Dujardin, who was banned for a year after footage showed her striking a horse, highlighting growing scrutiny in the equestrian sport regarding animal welfare.
