Three-time Olympic Gold Medallist Suspended For Horse-Whipping Scandal

Three-time Olympic Gold Medallist Suspended For Horse-Whipping Scandal

By Fly Cable News

Charlotte Dujardin, a three-time Olympic gold medallist in dressage, has been handed a one-year suspension following a horse-whipping incident that led to her withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The British rider was initially provisionally suspended by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) just days before the Paris Games were set to begin. The suspension came after the FEI received a video showing Dujardin striking a horse repeatedly with a long whip, which the governing body deemed a violation of horse welfare principles.

Dujardin, who was also fined 10,000 Swiss francs (approximately $11,300), acknowledged her “error in judgment” and expressed deep regret over the incident.

Her suspension, effective from July 2024, will prevent her from participating in any competition until July 2025. The FEI confirmed that the time served during her provisional suspension would be credited toward the one-year penalty.

The FEI’s statement also clarified that Dujardin is banned from all competitions and events governed by the FEI or national federations during this period. Both British Equestrian and British Dressage have upheld the suspension, making her ineligible for national competitions or training events.

Dujardin, who has earned six Olympic medals, including individual gold in 2012 and 2016, remains one of Britain’s most decorated Olympians.