Equestrian champ Andrew Nicholson threatens to defect to UK

Nicholson's withdrawal from the national programme places his chances of chasing a fourth Olympic medal in doubt. Photo / Brett Phibbs

New Zealand's top equestrian star Andrew Nicholson is considering a switch in allegiance to Britain following a fall-out with Equestrian Sport NZ.

The Herald on Sunday revealed in November that Nicholson had asked to be withdrawn from this year's high performance squad after a disagreement over the handling of his horse Nereo, following the difficult cross-country phase at the World Equestrian Games in France last year escalated into a stand-off with the national body.

Nicholson's withdrawal from the national programme leaves him without campaign funding and places a major question mark over his chances of chasing a fourth Olympic medal in Rio next year.

His self-imposed exile from the New Zealand team led to several pleas from equestrian observers for Nicholson to consider competing for other countries.

In an interview with equestrian website eventingconnect.today, the three-time defending Burghley champion hinted it was something he may investigate.

"I am touched by all these people wanting me to ride for their nations," said Nicholson, before adding "do you think the British would have me?"

When pressed for a more serious answer, Nicholson responded: "On a serious note, last year marked 30 years since my first appearance on a team for New Zealand at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to represent my country on every occasion but if the situation warrants it, then [switching allegiances] is something I suppose I would have to consider. I am not quite sure I could get a license to ride for other nations but I can quite easily get a British passport. I consider everything."

Despite the highly publicised spat leaving his future with the New Zealand team in limbo, Nicholson said he did not regret his actions in France.

"As far as my federation and my problems with them, I do not think that I could have done anything differently with that. I got myself in a bit of trouble, but I was concerned about my horse Nereo and his welfare is my priority and I would never compromise on that," he said.