Charlotte Dujardin Provisionally Suspended By International Equestrian Federation

Charlotte Dujardin, Britain’s joint-most decorated female Olympian, has been provisionally suspended by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). The suspension follows the emergence of a video showing Dujardin allegedly whipping a horse during a training session. 

Dujardin admitted to the incident, describing it as "an error of judgement" and stated, "there is no excuse. I am deeply ashamed and should have set a better example in that moment."

The FEI received the footage and an official complaint alleging that Dujardin was seen "beating a horse excessively with a whip." The complainant, represented by lawyer Stephan Wensing, claimed that the incident took place about two-and-a-half years ago and had hesitated to report it due to fear of reprisals and Dujardin’s prestige. 

Wensing said, "Anyone can see whipping and beating like this is really tough and it causes pain."

The video aired on Good Morning Britain showed Dujardin striking the horse's legs with a long whip, typically used in dressage to encourage the horse. 

Madeleine Hill, a former dressage reporter, explained, "In dressage, they use a long whip called a schooling whip to encourage the horse. Generally, you can’t use the whip too harshly because horses are very sensitive and they’ll react badly."

Dujardin suspended by FEI

Dujardin, who has won six Olympic medals, announced she would withdraw from all competitions while the investigation is ongoing. "What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils," she said. 

The FEI initially announced a six-month suspension but later stated the ban would "remain in place pending the outcome of the investigation/disciplinary proceedings."

Both British Equestrian (BEF) and British Dressage (BD) have also imposed a provisional suspension on Dujardin. 

British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre emphasized the importance of equine welfare, saying, "As the guardians of equestrian sport, we must uphold the highest standards of equine welfare - the horse's wellbeing is paramount."

UK Sport has removed Dujardin’s eligibility for funding pending the FEI investigation. The agency stated it was "disturbed" by the allegations. The British Olympic Association (BOA) plans to apply for a reserve athlete to replace Dujardin in the Paris 2024 Games.

Incident is second controversy for Dujardin

This incident is not the first controversy involving Dujardin. In 2019, she was eliminated from the European Championships after a small amount of blood was found on her horse’s side, which, while not implying intent, broke FEI rules designed to protect horses.

FEI president Ingmar de Vos stressed the need to address any instances of abuse, saying, "It is our responsibility and crucial that we address any instances of abuse, as equine welfare cannot be compromised. Charlotte has expressed genuine remorse for her actions, and we recognize and appreciate her willingness to take responsibility."

The dressage community is grappling with the impact of this incident. Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, highlighted the need for public trust in equestrian sports, stating, "If that trust is damaged it will damage the sport. This is another massive wake-up call for anyone who thinks this is not important, because it most certainly is."

As the investigation continues, the future of Dujardin's career and her standing in the equestrian community hang in the balance.