Sir Mark Todd faces a disciplinary hearing this week after a clip of him whipping a horse with a branch went viral.
The Olympian turned racing trainer will appear before the independent panel on Thursday. It comes after the 66-year-old appeared in the TikTok clip, which was widely shared last month. Todd, who apologies for his actions, was given an interim suspension by the BritIsh Horseracing Authority while the circumstances of the video were investigated.
It meant he was not able to run horses in Britain or Ireland during that period. Later this week, members on a BHA panel will consider whether Todd is in breach of Rule (J)19 – by engaging in conduct prejudicial to the good reputation of horse racing in Great Britain by striking a horse multiple times with a tree branch on 29 August 2020.
A BHA statement, issued on February 16, said: "The Chair of British racing’s Independent Judicial Panel has today approved an application from the BHA that an interim suspension should be placed on the training licence of Sir Mark Todd following the emergence over the weekend of a video showing him striking a horse with what appears to be a branch.
"This interim suspension means that while investigations continue into the circumstances of this incident, Sir Mark will be unable to race horses in Great Britain or internationally. The trainer has admitted the individual involved in the video was him, has apologised for his actions and agreed to the imposition of an interim suspension.
"On Sunday the BHA condemned the video and confirmed that it was looking into the incident. The BHA will provide further updates as necessary in due course, though will not be able to comment on the detail of the investigation itself until it is concluded.
"The interim suspension has been approved on the basis that it can be reviewed at a later date if necessary, on application by either party."
The horse in the video clip, shared widely on social media, was reluctant to cross a water obstacle. Todd's actions were widely criticised and led to him stepping down from his role with World Horse Welfare. The trainer, who had 13 winners on racecourses in 2021, issued an apology "to the horse and all involved."
"One of the main things I preach is about establishing a mutual respect between horse and rider and that patience and kindness is the best way to get results," he added.
"I believe this is one of the main attributes along with a great empathy with animals that has enabled me to have a long and successful career in eventing. I am very disappointed in myself that I did not adhere to that in this case."
