PARIS – One of the most decorated members of Great Britain’s Olympic delegation has withdrawn from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games following an equine abuse investigation.
Equestrian athlete Charlotte Dujardin, a three-time Olympic gold medalist in dressage, announced the news on Tuesday after a video surfaced that she said was from four years ago. and showed his performance “completely out of character”. The investigation by the International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) resulted in a six-month suspension, the body announced.
The FEI said it received a video on Tuesday “depicting Ms. Dujardin engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare.” A lawyer representing an unidentified complainant sent the video to the FEI.
“The footage was allegedly taken several years ago during a training session conducted by Ms Dujardin in a private stable,” the FEI said in a statement.
Dujardin technically withdrew before the FEI could impose its penalty.
In his statement, Dujardin said the incident “does not reflect how I train my horses or train my students, however there is no excuse. I am deeply embarrassed and should have set a better example at that time.
“I am sincerely sorry for my actions and am devastated to have let everyone down, including Team GB, fans and sponsors.”
Dujardin won gold medals in individual and team dressage at the 2012 London Games and repeated the individual title four years later in Rio. She won bronze in the individual and team events in Tokyo three years ago.
Dujardin cooperated with the FEI investigation, the FEI said. She also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEI investigation.
“We are deeply disappointed by this case, especially as we approach the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said in the statement. “However, it is our responsibility and crucial to address any cases of abuse as equine welfare cannot be compromised.”
This article originally appeared in USA TODAY: 2024 Olympics: Charlotte Dujardin leaves after video released
