The Australian showjumper Shane Rose has caused a stir in the equestrian world after wearing a mankini at a fancy dress event in Sydney, leading to his temporary suspension from competition. The three-time Olympic medallist expressed regret for any offense caused by his outfit choice and emphasized that it was meant to provide lighthearted entertainment.

At the Wallaby Hill event, where participants were encouraged to don fancy dress, Rose appeared in three different outfits, including a gorilla suit and a Duffman outfit inspired by the Simpsons, before shocking onlookers with the mankini, a skimpy swimwear item popularized by Sacha Baron Cohen’s comedy character Borat.

Following the event, Rose took to Facebook to apologize for any offense caused, asserting that it was never his intention to upset anyone. Despite the controversy, Equestrian Australia clarified that he has not been suspended but is under review.

Rose, who has secured team‑eventing silver at the 2008 and 2020 Olympics and bronze in 2016, is currently aiming to represent Australia at the upcoming Paris Games. He expressed hope that the incident would not hinder his Olympic preparation and emphasized his desire for a swift resolution to the situation.

While acknowledging that he should have reconsidered his choice of attire, Rose defended his actions, stating, ‘I think I am a good person and I do a lot for the sport, and for people in different situations. I don’t feel like I have done anything particularly bad. In hindsight, I should have rethought what I did but, at the time, I thought it was just a bit of fun.’