Horse cruelty in equestrian sports: FEI is investigating Heath Ryan!

Horse cruelty in equestrian sports: FEI is investigating Heath Ryan!

A dark chapter is opening in the world of equestrian sports that not only makes headlines, but also calls into question the basic values ​​of the environment. The World Equestrian Federation FEI has launched an official investigation into Australian dressage rider Heath Ryan. This comes in the wake of serious allegations of possible horse cruelty. According to the reports of Wesermarsch district newspaper These allegations were brought to the attention of both the world association and the Australian association Equestrian Australia.

The whole thing started when a frightening video with questionable training methods was published on social media. The content of the video, which is two years old, shows a man hitting the back of a horse multiple times. This man is believed to be Heath Ryan. Ryan has since been provisionally suspended by the Australian Federation, which is also noted in the FEI database. FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez expressed her discomfort with the scenes depicted and emphasized their contradiction to the organization's core values.

Horse welfare comes first

The FEI has taken a clear position: the protection of horses is the top priority. Equestrian Australia CEO Sam Jones welcomed the FEI's decision to conduct the investigation and urged the community's patience. “It is important that we all work together to resolve this incident,” he said. During the ongoing investigation, the FEI asks that any witnesses or people with relevant information contact us via email. The authority will not make any further comments for the time being in order to preserve the integrity of the process Horseweb reported.

The Ryan case joins a worrying series of incidents in equestrian sports. Recently, former Olympian Cesar Parra was suspended in Florida for similar allegations NDR reported. Videos show horses apparently being tortured, which inflames the emotions of riders and the public. In a fire letter to the FEI, well-known riders like Isabell Werth warn of the danger to the Olympic discipline. Ingrid Klimke finds the incidents “abnormal and cruel” and generally calls for tougher action.

Future of equestrian sport in focus

The discussion about animal cruelty in equestrian sports is gaining momentum. Following the Parra incidents, riders are calling for more decisive action and dissuasive punishments for those who do not act in the interests of horse welfare. Kerstin Gerhardt, an experienced dressage instructor, argued that horses should be locked out of stables in order to harm those responsible who behave unlawfully. “We need harmonious cooperation between horse and rider, and these incidents endanger everything,” said Gerhardt. Meanwhile, the FN has taken legal action to monitor further incidents.

Equestrian sport is at a critical turning point. The Heath Ryan case raises many questions, not only about individual actions, but also about the overall structures and corporate values. It remains to be hoped that the ongoing investigations will help to bring the welfare of animals to the fore and show a clear stance against abuse.