American showjumper Michael Morrissey is being investigated by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) and the US Equestrian Federation (USEF) for alleged abuse of the horse.
According to video posted on YouTube the rider appeared to hit his horse up to 13 times coming in to a jump at the Wellington CSI** on 27 February.
Mr Morrissey was taking part in a USEF World Equestrian Games selection trial at the show when the horse — Crelido — refuses a fence, leading to the action from Mr Morrissey.
The FEI said it would also be investigating the role of the ground jury at the show.
An FEI spokesman said: “Given the fact that both the international and national federations will issue charges for the same set of factual circumstances, the FEI and the USEF will coordinate their existing regulatory procedures to ensure a fair process for the rider and seek the right outcome for the equestrian community. “
