Owner of three gold medals and six podiums at the Olympic Games, the British Charlotte Dujardin, a star in the dressage category of equestrianism, decided to withdraw from the Olympics on the eve of the start of the competition – Paris 2024 starts this Friday (26).Â
In an official statement, Dujardin acknowledged that he gave up trying for the fourth Olympic championship after a video in which he appears hitting a horse went viral on social networks. According to the Briton, the case would have happened four years ago.Â
“A video from four years ago emerged that shows me making an error of judgment during a training session. Understandably, the International Equestrian Sports Federation (FEI) is investigating the case, and I have made the decision to withdraw from all competitions, including the Olympic Games,” reads an excerpt from the text.Â
Without giving further details about the event, the multi-time Olympic champion, who was tipped to be Britain’s flag bearer at the Paris Games, said her attitude was unjustifiable.
“What happened was completely out of my normal and does not reflect how I train my horses or my students; However, there are no excuses. I am deeply ashamed and should have been a better example at that time,” Dujardin continued. Finally, the 39-year-old trainer apologized to fans, athletes and sponsors, stressing that she will collaborate with the investigations.
Investigation
Shortly after the athlete’s withdrawal, the International Equestrian Sports Federation (FEI) decided to rule on the case.
“On July 22, 2024, the FEI received a video that shows Ms. Dujardin in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare. (…) The FEI condemns any conduct contrary to the welfare of horses and has strict rules in place to deal with such behaviour. Our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of equine welfare and sportsmanship remains unwavering,” reads an excerpt from the statement.
