PARIS - THE International Equestrian Federation (FEI) on Tuesday confirmed British rider Michael Whitaker has been provisionally suspended after his mount Tackeray tested positive in a competition last May at La Baule, France.

The FEI said Thackeray would remain grounded until the B sample has been analysed.

The rider believes the synthetic hormone altrenogest was administered to the animal with its feed.

The product is found in Regu-Mate, used as an anti-irritant in hot conditions.

Younger brother of British showjumping champion John Whitaker, Michael now could miss the European Championships which take place at Windsor at the end of August. -- AFP