Darragh Kenny’s 15-year-old stallion VDL Cartello (Cartani 4 x Lord) has been withdrawn from the Agria FEI Jumping World Championship, and will not be competing for the Irish team in Herning, Denmark. 

A statement from Horse Sport Ireland reads:

“Darragh Kenny and his horse, VDL Cartello, will no longer compete in the Agria FEI Jumping World Championships having been withdrawn this morning (August 9) due to developing a veterinary issue.

Following a discussion between High Performance Director Michael Blake and team vet Marcus Swail, the decision was taken to withdraw.

It is a cruel blow for Darragh, VDL Cartello’s groom Niccki O’Donovan and all connections of the horse but both Darragh and Horse Sport Ireland place paramount importance on the welfare and health of our athletes, human and equine.

Bertram Allen with Amiro Pacino (ISH) will replace Darragh as the fourth team member at the Championships.”

Kenny also released a statement on his official Instagram account, writing: 

"I am very sad to say we decided to withdraw Cartello VDL from participating this week in Herning at the World Championships. We made the decision in the best interest of the horse and of the Team. I want to thank my owners, sponsors and all the people behind me who worked so hard to get us here. Sometimes this is how our sport goes and difficult decisions need to be made. We will continue to work hard and have him back in the ring in no time."