While riders represent their own country, the horses are considered "athletes" in their own right, and their origin or nationality is not a factor in their participation.
A horse from any country can compete in the Olympics as long as it meets the eligibility criteria set by the International Olympic Committee and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). This means the horse must be:
* Registered with a recognized breed registry.
* Of a suitable age and temperament.
* Healthy and in good physical condition.
* Qualified to compete at the Olympic level.
Therefore, it is common to see horses from various countries competing in the Olympics alongside riders from different nations.