Charlotte Dujardin, one of Team GB’s most celebrated equestrians, has been barred from competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics following serious allegations regarding her treatment of a horse. The three-time Olympic dressage gold medalist faces a six-month suspension from the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) after a video surfaced showing her allegedly whipping a horse 24 times during a private coaching session.
The incident, which reportedly occurred several years ago, was brought to light by a complaint from a 19-year-old rider represented by Dutch lawyer Stephan Wensing. The video depicts Dujardin using a long whip in what Wensing described as excessive and abusive, comparing the scene to “an elephant in the circus.”
British Equestrian has declined to comment directly on the allegations but emphasized its commitment to high standards of equine welfare. Jim Eyre, Chief Executive of British Equestrian, stated, “As the guardians of equestrian sport, we must uphold the highest standards of equine welfare – the horse’s wellbeing is paramount.” He confirmed that the organization would cooperate fully with the FEI’s investigation.
Dujardin, who had been a strong contender to represent Team GB as the flag bearer at the Paris Games, withdrew from the Olympics shortly before the FEI announced her provisional suspension. In her statement, she did not address the video specifically but expressed profound regret and admitted there was “no excuse” for her actions. She stated she was “deeply ashamed” and “devastated” by the situation, and pledged to cooperate with the FEI, British Equestrian Federation, and British Dressage.
The FEI confirmed that Dujardin is now ineligible to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics or any other FEI-sanctioned events. FEI President Ingmar De Vos expressed disappointment, saying, “We are deeply disappointed with this case, especially as we approach the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. However, it is crucial that we address any instances of abuse, as equine welfare cannot be compromised.”
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the Team GB camp, with senior officials caught off guard by the news. Dujardin was expected to be a leading competitor in both the individual and team dressage events. As a result of her withdrawal, travelling reserve Becky Moody will take Dujardin’s place, alongside teammates Carl Hester and Charlotte Fry.
The British Olympic Association confirmed Dujardin’s withdrawal and stated it would seek to replace her with a reserve athlete under the IOC’s Late Athlete Replacement rules.
