Charlotte Dujardin Receives One-Year Ban for Horse Violation

Charlotte Dujardin is one of Britain’s most Olympian athletes in equestrian sports and she will be banned for one year as international competition says. She was fined after video footage emerged showing her striking a horse with a whip during a training session.

The video was recorded four years ago, just days before the Paris Olympics. It showed Charlotte Dujardin repeatedly whipping the horse’s legs during a private training session. Upon receiving the footage, the FEI launched an investigation and condemned a provisional suspension, leading to Dujardin’s withdrawal from the Paris Games.

The FEI’s ruling backdated the suspension to the start of her provisional ban in July 2024, allowing her to be back to competition in July 2025. During the suspension Dujardin is not allowed to participate in events or activities governed by the national equestrian federations.

British Equestrian and British Dressage Horse supported the decision and confirmed that Dujardin was barred from national competitions and training events during the same period.

Knowing the severity of her actions, Charlotte Dujardin apologized publicly and expressed her determination to learn from the experience. “What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils,” she stated.

Charlotte Dujardin described the period as one of the most challenging in her life. “I understand the responsibility that comes with my position in the sport, and I can only apologize again,” she said. “I will forever aim to do better.”

The FEI emphasized that the decision underscores its commitment to protecting the welfare of horses in the sport. “These significant sanctions send a clear message that anyone, regardless of their profile, who compromises horse race welfare will face serious consequences,” said Sabrina Ibanez, FEI Secretary General.

Ibanez also noted that the incident had brought negative attention to equestrian sports in the lead-up to the Paris Games. She added that the governing body should swiftly investigate and enforce appropriate measures.

The UK Sport which oversees public funding for British athletes stated that Charlotte Dujardin would be not allowed for financial support during her suspension. A review will determine her eligibility for funding beyond the FEI’s sanctions.

British Equestrian and British Dressage horse reiterated their dedication to ethical treatment and the welfare of horses. Jason Brautigam, CEO of British Dressage Horse, said, “We remain fully committed to upholding the highest standards of care and responsible practices in equestrian sports.” He referenced the recently launched Charter for the Horse, designed to promote ethical treatment and welfare standards across the sport.

Jim Eyre, Chief Executive of British Equestrian, emphasized the importance of education and enforcement to maintain integrity in the sport. “The welfare and ethical treatment of horses remain a top priority, and we will continue working closely with member organizations to uphold these principles.”

Charlotte Dujardin the six-time Olympic medalist is now having an issue of having a violation. Her achievements are gold medals at the London 2012 Olympics as a team and individual. She also an individual gold at Rio 2016, and additional podium finishes at Tokyo 2020.

This incident marks a significant setback in her career. Charlotte Dujardin’s actions admitted were a serious error in judgment have drawn criticism and raised questions about the conduct questions from high-profile athletes in equestrian disciplines.

Charlotte Dujardin will be given a chance to compete again in mid-2025 because the incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities associated with equestrian sports. The governing bodies continue to prioritize the welfare of horses and the ethical conduct of athletes.

This case has shown the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to welfare standards, reinforcing the message that the care of equine partners remains central to the sport’s integrity.

As Charlotte Dujardin reflects on this chapter, equestrian organizations and athletes are expected to focus on maintaining ethical standards and fostering trust within the sport. This includes educating athletes at all levels to ensure the well-being of horses remains paramount in all aspects of competition and training.