Sport: Horse Racing Country: Australia Category: Scores & Results

Heath Ryan receives 18-month suspension for horse abuse allegations

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 6:03 AM

Last updated Aug 29, 2026

Heath Ryan receives 18-month suspension for horse abuse allegations

Summary

Australian Olympian Heath Ryan has been suspended for 18 months by the FEI after an investigation into allegations of horse abuse. The suspension follows a prior suspension by Equestrian Australia after a video surfaced showing Ryan whipping a horse. The incident occurred last year and raised significant concern in the equestrian community. Ryan has also received a fine as part of the punishment, further outlining the severity of the findings against him.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

By the Numbers

•Heath Ryan banned for 18 months by FEI
•Suspension follows allegations of horse abuse
•Ryan previously suspended by Equestrian Australia
•Incident involved video evidence from last year
•Ryan also fined for the abusive behavior

Latest Updates

6:03 AMThe Guardian Sport — Australian Olympian Heath Ryan banned after alleged horse abuse investigation

What they're saying

"
Dressage and eventing rider handed 18-month suspension by FEI Video appearing to show Ryan whipping a horse emerged last year Australian Olympian Heath Ryan has been suspended for 18 months and fined by equestrian’s global governing body following an investigation into allegations of horse abuse. The dressage and eventing rider had already been suspended by Equestrian Australia last year after a video appearing to show Ryan whipping a horse repeatedly surfaced on social media. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Australian Associated Press

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