Austrian show jumper Max Kühner, set to compete in equestrian jumping events at the Paris Olympic Games, is under scrutiny following accusations of animal cruelty in Germany. The controversy stems from allegations made by PETA Germany, who filed a criminal complaint against Kühner last September, claiming he violated the country's animal welfare act by employing a technique known as 'active poling' or 'barring' during a jump in May 2023.
'Active poling' involves using a pole to strike a horse's legs, compelling it to jump higher. Kühner has vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that his horses are well-cared for and that animal welfare is a top priority in his operations.
The Austrian Equestrian Sports Federation (OEPS) has rallied behind Kühner, filing a motion to dismiss the case and emphasizing the presumption of innocence. Kühner's lawyer has refuted PETA's claims, stating that none of the horses under Kühner's care have been harmed.
As the legal process unfolds, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) has reached out to the national federations of Germany and Austria for more information. The FEI has indicated that it will await the outcome of the German legal proceedings before taking any further action.
Meanwhile, PETA Germany has called for Kühner to be excluded from the Paris Olympics, citing the pending accusations. The timing of these allegations, just before the Olympics, has raised questions about the motives behind the accusations.
With Kühner's first event scheduled for Monday, the controversy surrounding the animal cruelty accusations adds a layer of complexity to his participation in the Paris Olympic Games. The equestrian community and animal welfare advocates will be closely monitoring the developments in this case.
