FEI Tribunal imposes 20-month ban on Andrew McConnon

The FEI Tribunal has handed down a verdict against US event rider Andrew McConnon and banned him for 20 months for horse abuse. The ban came into effect on January 8, 2025 and ends on September 8, 2026. In addition, a fine of CHF 2,500 was imposed.

FEI Tribunal ruling following ongoing proceedings

Following disciplinary proceedings initiated following multiple allegations of horse mistreatment, the FEI Tribunal has decided to impose a 20-month ban on McConnon. The ban excludes him from all FEI-registered competitions and events and from all equestrian activities. He was also banned from training FEI-registered athletes or horses. The Tribunal found that McConnon had damaged the reputation of the FEI and equestrian sport through his conduct and had breached the FEI Code of Conduct.

Legal consequences and possible appeal

In addition to the ban, McConnon was fined CHF 2,500. These sanctions result from violations of Article 142.1 of the FEI General Regulations, which prohibits the mistreatment of horses. The parties have the opportunity to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 21 days of receiving the full decision.

The FEI said the full, reasoned decision will be published in due course and can be viewed on its website. More information can be found HERE.