Lynch decision looms

Show jumper Denis Lynch’s bid to be reinstated in the Olympics will be heard at 8pm this evening by a three-man panel set up by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in London, with the finding expected to be announced tomorrow.

Lynch wants CAS to overturn the withdrawal of his Olympic nomination by Horse Sport Ireland after his horse Lantinus was disqualified at the German Nations Cup show three weeks ago.

The Tipperary rider was replaced by Cian O’Connor and both riders have been invited to attend tonight’s hearing.

Lynch is competing in Spain and, while his brother Shay last night felt there was a possibility he could fly to London, he said he would definitely have his “lead lawyer” at the hearing.

O’Connor is declared for tomorrow’s Premier Series Grand Prix in Tattersalls and must firstly qualify today, so it is almost certain he will not be in London, though, he too is likely to have some representation.

Last night CAS secretary general Matthieu Reeb said all parties were happy for a determination to be announced tomorrow.

“Representatives from Horse Sport Ireland, the Olympic Council of Ireland, as well as personnel from the FEI, will be present at the hearing. Denis Lynch and Cian O’Connor have been invited, but can have a lawyer present instead. The IOC may also send someone if they wish,” said Reeb.

“The decision should be announced in the afternoon of the following day,” he said.