Former Olympic dressage rider Cesar Parra has been suspended for 15 years by the FEI Tribunal for repeatedly abusing multiple horses under his care, marking one of the most significant sanctions issued by the FEI. The investigation, prompted by numerous videos and allegations received by US Equestrian, revealed Parra’s recurring and serious abuse over several years, violating horse welfare principles and bringing the sport into disrepute. Parra, who competed internationally for Colombia and later the US, has also been fined CHF 15,000 and ordered to pay CHF 10,000 in legal costs.

This case highlighted gaps in US Equestrian’s jurisdiction over welfare issues outside sanctioned competitions, prompting a rule change to allow disciplinary action for unethical treatment both on and off competition grounds. USEF CEO Bill Moroney emphasized the federation’s commitment to enforcing the FEI Tribunal’s decision and strengthening horse welfare protections. The suspension bars Parra from all national and international competition, related activities, and training of FEI-registered horses or riders until February 2039.