Heath Ryan Suspended Over Horse Whipping Video

Australian Olympian Heath Ryan has been provisionally suspended by Equestrian Australia after a video surfaced showing him whipping a horse, Nico, over 40 times during a training session. The governing body expressed deep concern for the horse's welfare and has launched a formal investigation, reaffirming its commitment to high animal welfare standards. Ryan, who competed in dressage at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, defended his actions on social media, stating Nico was considered dangerous and at risk of being euthanized, and that his intervention aimed to save the animal. The incident reportedly occurred two years ago and has sparked public debate about animal welfare in equestrian sports. The case has drawn comparisons to previous scandals involving elite equestrians. Ryan remains suspended from all competitions and official roles pending the investigation's outcome.