5-star rider beneath investigation after ‘abusive behaviours’ caught on video

Manufacturers who sponsored or supported Andrew McConnon have been severing ties with the US five-star eventer, after it was confirmed he’s being investigated for alleged horse abuse.

US Equestrian (USEF) confirmed that it had handed related reviews and supplies to the FEI, which is trying into the matter. USEF mentioned it’s going to implement any disciplinary motion taken by the FEI.

“USEF takes all reviews of equine abuse very severely and prioritises the safeguarding of horse welfare,” a spokesperson mentioned. “We obtained an nameless report at the start of the summer time concerning US eventing athlete, Andrew McConnon, and had been despatched supplies exhibiting abusive behaviours shortly after the report was made. After figuring out USEF didn’t have jurisdiction over the matter as a result of it didn’t contain misconduct at a USEF competitors, USEF promptly referred the matter to the FEI, the place it’s beneath investigation.

“The FEI’s jurisdiction and talent to pursue disciplinary motion is broader concerning reported incidents of animal abuse occurring outdoors of licensed competitions.”

The spokesperson added that “abuse in any type, at any time, is unacceptable in our sport”, and that the USEF board in June authorised a rule change extending USEF’s jurisdiction to cowl reviews of abuse out of competitors. The rule will come into drive on 1 December.

A spokesperson for the FEI advised H&H: “The FEI takes all allegations of horse abuse very severely and has been made conscious of the allegations towards Andrew McConnon. We’re at present investigating the matter and may subsequently not present any additional data or feedback at this cut-off date.”

Andrew was given a $50,000 (£38,379) grant on the US Eventing Affiliation year-end awards final December, and competed at Defender Burghley Horse Trials final week with Wakita 54, ending in twenty seventh place. Since information of the investigation broke, US equestrian companies Gallops Saddlery, Equine Bonnets, Hound & Hare and Appropriate Join will not sponsor him. World Equestrian Manufacturers mentioned he would “not be a part of our coach workforce”.

H&H has approached Andrew for remark.

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H&H information editor

Eleanor is an skilled journalist who spent over eight years working for native and nationwide newspapers earlier than becoming a member of H&H as information editor in March 2016. Keen about equine welfare and exposing the reality, Eleanor has reported on all points of the business, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage guidelines to mules. Her sport of alternative is showjumping, wherein she competes her personal horses, and he or she additionally enjoys reporting at native leaping exhibits by way of to worldwide championships.