Cesar Parra, a US dressage rider and elite equestrian competitor since 1998, has been suspended for 15 years by the FEI Tribunal for extensive and repeated horse abuse. The Tribunal found that Parra used excessive whipping, spurring, and harmful equipment such as metal nuts under nosebands and elasticated shackles, causing physical injuries like welts, open wounds, and mouth sores. Video evidence, witness statements, and photographs revealed a pattern of abusive training practices aimed at forcing horses into submissiveness, resulting in significant mental and physical distress to the animals. Despite Parra’s denial and defense claims that these were training errors rather than abuse, the panel concluded his actions constituted severe offenses in equestrian sport.

The FEI’s investigation, triggered by videos sent to US Equestrian, showed that Parra’s abusive methods were continuous over several years and involved most horses under his care. Witnesses described daily whipping, tying horses’ heads down, and using pulley systems to restrict movement, all causing fear and distress. Parra submitted numerous declarations from supporters denying abuse, but the Tribunal rejected these in light of the overwhelming evidence. He was fined CHF 15,000 and ordered to pay legal costs, and he has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The case highlights serious concerns about animal welfare in competitive dressage and the consequences of abusive training practices.