Charlotte Dujardin banned for one year over horse welfare violation

Three-time Olympic gold medallist Charlotte Dujardin has been handed a one-year suspension by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) following a horse-whipping incident that led to her withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Games.

The British dressage star, 39, was provisionally suspended in July after the FEI reviewed a video showing her striking a horse’s legs repeatedly during a training session. The footage, which surfaced years after it was recorded, prompted widespread criticism of Dujardin’s conduct.

Dujardin, who has also been fined 10,000 Swiss francs ($11,300), admitted to an “error of judgment” and expressed remorse. Her suspension, backdated to July 2024, bars her from all equestrian competitions until July 2025.

“The FEI has suspended Charlotte Dujardin for one year and imposed a fine, effectively concluding the disciplinary proceedings,” the governing body stated. “This decision reflects our commitment to the principles of horse welfare.”

British Equestrian and British Dressage have endorsed the suspension. Jim Eyre, chief executive of British Equestrian, said, “The welfare and ethical treatment of horses has always been a priority, and we expect the highest standards at all times.”

Dujardin, a six-time Olympic medallist, had been poised to become Britain’s most decorated female Olympian in Paris. Her past controversies include disqualification at the 2019 European Championships after blood was found on her horse during a post-competition check.

(Source: AFP)