Charlotte Dujardin has been provisionally suspended by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) after “engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of animal welfare”. The decorated dressage Olympian withdrew from the Games earlier on Tuesday, admitting that she had made an “error of judgement” during a coaching session four years ago.
Dujardin revealed in a statement that both the FEI and the British Equestrian Federation were investigating the matter. She has now been provisionally suspended voluntarily by the FEI, while the British Equestrian Federation are expected to make their own statement shortly.
A three-time Olympic champion and six-time medallist, Dujardin wrote in a statement that a video showed her “making an error of judgement” during a coaching session. The FEI say that on Monday they received footage of Dujardin “engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare”.
She took the decision to withdraw from all upcoming events, including the Paris Games which begins this week. The FEI has announced a provisional suspension.
A statement read: “The FEI has officially announced the provisional suspension of British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin effective immediately from the date of notification, 23 July 2024.
“This decision renders her ineligible to participate in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events under the jurisdiction of the FEI.”
The statement continued: “Upon receiving the video, the FEI promptly initiated an investigation. As part of this investigation, Ms. Dujardin, British Equestrian, and British Dressage were informed of the allegations. Ms Dujardin was given a deadline of 17:00 Swiss time on July 23 to respond to the allegations. Subsequently, Ms. Dujardin confirmed that she is the individual depicted in the video and acknowledged that her conduct was inappropriate.
“On July 23 2024, Charlotte Dujardin requested to be provisionally suspended pending the outcome of the investigations and voluntarily withdrew from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEI’s investigation.
“The FEI condemns any conduct contrary to the welfare of horses and has robust rules in place to address such behaviour. Our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of equine welfare and sportsmanship remains unwavering.”
Team GB, who have been contacted for comment, are expected to announce a replacement for Dujardin in due course. Becky Moody has been tipped as an early contender.
“A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session,” Dujardin wrote on Instagram.
“Understandably, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) is investigating and I have made the decision to withdraw from all competition – including the Paris Olympics – while this process takes place.
“What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils, however there is no excuse. I am deeply ashamed and should have set a better example in that moment.
“I am sincerely sorry for my actions and devastated that I have let everyone down, including Team GB, fans and sponsors.
“I will cooperate fully with the FEI, British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage during their investigations, and will not be commenting further until the process is complete.”
