Following a provisional suspension in January, the Swiss Equestrian Federation (SVPS) has announced that former Swiss team-rider Paul Estermann has been banned from participating at equestrian events for a time-frame of seven years. 

The decision to ban Estermann was issued by the Swiss Equestrian Federation's Sanction Commission (SAKO), and follows a verdict from the Lucerne Cantonal Court which found the Swiss rider guilty of animal cruelty. Examining the files from the criminal proceedings, the Sanction Commission found Estermann’s behaviour to be “absolutely unacceptable”. As president of the Sanction Commission, Thomas Räber commented on the case: "SAKO considers the wilful, selfish and aggressive behaviour of the rider to be a blatant disregard for the well-being of the horse." 

Paul Estermann has the opportunity to appeal the Sanction Commission's decision within 20 days.