Charlotte Dujardin, a three-time Olympic gold medallist in dressage, has been banned for a year following a horse-whipping incident that forced her withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The British rider was provisionally suspended by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) after a video surfaced showing her repeatedly striking a horse during a training session several years ago.
The footage sparked widespread criticism.
The 39-year-old rider, who has also been fined 10,000 Swiss francs (£9,000), admitted to making an “error of judgement” and expressed regret over her actions.
Dujardin withdrew from the Paris Games shortly after the suspension was announced. Her ban, backdated to July 2024, prevents her from competing until July 2025.
“Dujardin has been provisionally suspended since July 23, 2024 for engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare. The time served during her provisional suspension will be credited towards the one-year suspension.,” The FEI confirmed the disciplinary measures in a statement.
During the ban, she is barred from participating in all competitions and training events governed by the FEI or national equestrian federations.
Dujardin, who has won six Olympic medals, was a strong contender to become Britain’s most decorated female Olympian in Paris. Her record includes double gold at London 2012 and retaining her individual title in Tokyo.
However, she has faced controversy before, including her 2019 disqualification at the European Championships when blood was found on her horse after a competition.
