Equestrian Australia has provisionally suspended the membership and associated rights of Australian Olympian Heath Ryan following the emergence of a video on social media showing a person repeatedly whipping a horse. The suspension will remain in place pending a thorough investigation by Equestrian Australia’s Integrity Unit. Ryan, who competed in dressage at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, stated that the video, which he said was about two years old, depicted him acting in the horse’s best interest after the horse, named Nico, had caused a serious accident and was considered a “problem child.” Ryan claimed the harsh treatment was a last resort to find alternative solutions for the horse’s behavior.

Equestrian Australia expressed strong concern over the treatment shown in the footage and emphasized their commitment to high standards of horse welfare, referencing their Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy and Code of Conduct aligned with FEI guidelines. The suspension prohibits Ryan from participating in any competitions or events under Equestrian Australia’s jurisdiction until the investigation concludes. The organization also clarified that it did not request the removal of the video from social media, countering some public speculation.