The FEI has provisionally suspended Charlotte Dujardin over a video that exhibits her “partaking in conduct opposite to the ideas of horse welfare”.
H&H reported this afternoon (23 July) that Charlotte had introduced she had withdrawn from the dressage workforce for the Paris Olympics owing to an “error of judgement”, in a training session 4 years in the past, captured in a video that has emerged.
The FEI has now formally introduced she has been suspended from as we speak, pending the end result of the investigation/disciplinary proceedings. British Equestrian has mirrored the suspension, so she could not take part in any nationwide or worldwide occasions throughout this time.
“On 22 July 2024, the FEI acquired a video depicting Ms Dujardin partaking in conduct opposite to the ideas of horse welfare,” an FEI spokesperson stated. “This video was submitted to the FEI by a lawyer representing an undisclosed complainant.
“In keeping with the data acquired, the footage was allegedly taken a number of years in the past throughout a coaching session carried out by Ms Dujardin at a non-public steady.
“Upon receiving the video, the FEI promptly initiated an investigation. As a part of this investigation, Ms Dujardin, British Equestrian and British Dressage had been knowledgeable of the allegations. Ms Dujardin was given a deadline of 17:00 Swiss time on 23 July to answer the allegations. Subsequently, Ms Dujardin confirmed that she is the person depicted within the video and acknowledged that her conduct was inappropriate.”
The FEI stated Charlotte requested to be provisionally suspended pending the end result of the investigation, and voluntarily withdrew from the Paris Video games, in addition to confirming that she wouldn’t participate in any competitions whereas the investigation is ongoing.
“The FEI condemns any conduct opposite to the welfare of horses and has sturdy guidelines in place to deal with such behaviour,” the spokesperson stated. “Our dedication to making sure the very best requirements of equine welfare and sportsmanship stays unwavering.
“The FEI acknowledges the cooperation of Charlotte Dujardin, British Equestrian, and British Dressage with the continued investigation and intends to proceed as swiftly as potential.”
Charlotte stated in her assertion as we speak: “What occurred was fully out of character and doesn’t mirror how I practice my horses or coach my pupils, nevertheless there isn’t a excuse. I’m deeply ashamed and may have set a greater instance in that second.
“I’m sincerely sorry for my actions and devastated that I’ve let everybody down, together with Staff GB, followers and sponsors.”
FEI president Ingmar de Vos stated the FEI was “deeply dissatisfied with this case”, particularly because the Olympics are so close to.
“Nevertheless, it’s our duty and essential that we handle any cases of abuse, as equine welfare can’t be compromised,” he stated.
“Charlotte has expressed real regret for her actions, and we recognise and respect her willingness to take duty. Regardless of the unlucky timing, we consider this motion reaffirms the FEI’s dedication to welfare because the guardians of our equine companions and the integrity of our sport.”
The FEI will make no extra feedback on the matter till the investigation is concluded.
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