Saudi riders free to ride at Olympics after bans reduced

Two Saudi Arabian riders whose horses tested positive for prohibited substances have had their bans reduced from eight months to two – meaning they will not miss the Olympics.

Khaled Abdulaziz Al Eid and Abdullah Waleed Sharbatly were suspended by an FEI tribunal on 23 May, after their horses tested positive for bute – a controlled medication.

But the International Court for Arbitration of Sport today (11 June) reduced the bans to two months. meaning they can start competing again immediately.

Saudi Equestrian said it was “delighted” with the findings. Khaled Al Eid has already qualified for the Olympics with Presley Boy and Abdullah Sharbatly now aims to qualify on Bruce Menzies’ former ride, Sultan V before 17 June.

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