The double Olympic dressage champion, Charlotte Dujardin, has been suspended from all competitions for one year after a video surfaced on the eve of the Paris 2024 Games, showing her repeatedly whipping a horse. Dujardin was forced to withdraw from the Olympics following the emergence of the footage from four years ago. In reference to the video of a coaching session, she stated that the incident was 'completely out of character' and 'does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils.'
Dujardin was provisionally suspended by the International Federation for Equestrian (FEI) Sports on July 23rd as it initiated an investigation into the video, which depicted her making what she described as 'an error of judgment' during a coaching session. The video showed Dujardin hitting a student's horse repeatedly with a whip from the ground, leading to widespread condemnation. The complaint was filed with the FEI by Dutch equine lawyer Stephan Wensing on behalf of an unnamed client.
Dujardin is now barred from all competitions until July next year, with the suspension backdated to July 23rd of this year. PA Media news agency reports that she does not plan to appeal. In a statement, the FEI announced: 'The FEI has suspended British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin for one year and imposed a fine of CHF 10,000 (£8881), effectively concluding the disciplinary proceedings against her.' Dujardin has been provisionally suspended since July 23rd, 2024, for conduct contrary to horse welfare principles. The time served during her provisional suspension will be credited towards the one-year suspension.
During her suspension, Dujardin is prohibited from participating in any activities related to competitions or events under the jurisdiction of the FEI or a National Federation. British Equestrian and British Dressage have reciprocated the suspension, making Dujardin ineligible to compete in any national competitions or training events during this period.
Dujardin, who has won six Olympic medals, including individual gold in 2012 and 2016, has been dropped by sponsors and removed as an ambassador by the global horse welfare charity Brooke and the London International Horse Show. UK Sport has also suspended Dujardin's eligibility to receive public funding. The 39-year-old had the potential to become Britain's most decorated female Olympian in Paris. A medal of any color would have surpassed cyclist Dame Laura Kenny, with whom she is currently tied.
Dujardin gained prominence with individual and team golds at London 2012 while riding Valegro, set to a soundtrack that included 'Land of Hope and Glory.' The duo retained the former title and won silver in the latter at Rio 2016.
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