A video showing Team GB Olympian Charlotte Dujardin allegedly abusing a horse has been aired on Good Morning Britain, leading to her withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympics. The footage, captured during a training session, shows Dujardin whipping the horse’s legs while an unidentified person rides it. The video prompted an investigation by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) and resulted in a provisional six-month ban for Dujardin.
Dujardin, a six-time dressage Olympic medalist, described her actions as “completely out of character” and an “error of judgement.” She expressed deep regret and apologized for letting down her team, fans, and sponsors. In her statement, Dujardin committed to cooperating fully with the ongoing investigations by the FEI, the British Equestrian Federation, and British Dressage. She emphasized that the incident did not reflect her usual training methods.
Charlotte Dujardin, Britain's joint-most decorated female Olympian, has been provisionally suspended & will not compete at Paris 2024.
— Good Morning Britain (@GMB) July 24, 2024
This video has emerged of the dressage star which she said showed her 'making an error of judgement'. pic.twitter.com/PQ9rPQTD04
The complainant’s lawyer alleged that Dujardin struck the horse over 24 times in a single minute during a coaching session with a 19-year-old student at her private stable. As the investigation continues, Dujardin has decided to step back from all competitions, including the Paris Olympics, to allow the process to unfold.
The incident has sparked significant controversy and debate within the equestrian community, highlighting the need for stringent regulations and oversight in the training of competitive horses. The FEI’s decision underscores the importance of maintaining high standards of animal welfare in the sport.
