The FEI has launched an investigation into Australian rider Heath Ryan following allegations of horse abuse.It comes after a video circulated on social media showing the 66-year-old repeatedly striking a chestnut horse with a whip while riding it in a training session.The rider has been provisionally suspended from all competitions and events by both the FEI and Equestrian Australia.The scenes depicted are profoundly disturbing and stand in stark opposition to the core values of FEI horse welfare, said FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibez.The FEI has opened an investigation to thoroughly examine all the facts and determine further disciplinary action under the FEI Rules and Regulations. We are committed to ensuring that any behaviour which puts horse welfare at risk is dealt with firmly and fairly.Heath Ryan is one of Australias top equestrians.The Sydney-born rider was a dressage team member at the2008 Beijing Olympics. He has been the countrys eventing champion on three occasions and won every international Grand Prix on home soil in 2007.Equestrian Australia CEO Sam Jones said she welcomes the FEIs investigation.It is both appropriate and welcome that FEI leads the investigation of this matter, she said.Equestrian Australia remains extremely concerned about the incident and allegations, and we will support the FEI in any way we can.We know our community is keen for answers, but we would ask for patience as the FEI rightly follows a thorough and fair process, in line with their policies and procedures.The FEI is inviting anyone who witnessed the incident or who possesses relevant information or evidence to contact the FEI via email atwelfare@fei.org.Further readingHow to tell if a horse is happyLearn to read a horses body languageWhy feeding a horse from the floor is best practiceHow to cool a horse down quickly in hot weatherThe post FEI launches horse abuse investigation into Australian rider appeared first on Your Horse.