The Egyptian Equestrian Federation announced the withdrawal of rider Nayel Nassar from the equestrian events of the 2024 Summer Olympics in France due to an injury to his horse. The federation stated in a statement on Saturday: "The Egyptian Equestrian Federation sadly announces that the horse of Egyptian rider Nayel Nassar was injured yesterday at the Olympic fields in Versailles."
After spending 27 million on the equestrian delegation, Nassar’s withdrawal from the Olympics was confirmed due to his horse's injury.
The federation explained: "The horse had passed the first medical examination and successfully participated in the trial competition on Wednesday, July 31; however, it suffered an injury in the front right leg yesterday (Friday). After a medical examination by the veterinary team using ultrasound and an attempt to treat it, the veterinarian decided this morning (Saturday) that it would not be possible for the horse to participate in the competitions."
It continued: "The timing of the injury is particularly difficult, as it came after the horse passed the initial medical test," noting that the Olympic rules and regulations prevent substituting or changing the horse after this date.
The Egyptian Equestrian Federation confirmed that it is also not possible to replace rider Nayel Nassar with the reserve rider, ending Egypt's participation in the equestrian competitions. Nassar is the son-in-law of American billionaire Bill Gates and is the only rider representing Egypt in the Paris Olympics.
