Are Horses in Equestrian Sports Harmed by Neck Hyperflexion?

During the upcoming 2024 Olympic equestrian events in Paris, the spotlight will be on the intricacies of dressage, where horses perform elegant, dance-like movements showcasing their muscular strength and precise control. Recent developments have shifted attention to the positioning of the horses’ heads, emphasizing the importance of their comfort and well-being. On July 27, Brazilian rider Carlos Parro received a warning for behaviors during a warm-up session that the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) deemed could potentially cause unnecessary discomfort to the horse. This incident underscores the ongoing commitment to welfare and ethical standards within the sport.