FEI announces a provisional suspension for Dressage competitor Charlotte Dujardin (GBR)
The FEI has publicly announced the exclusion of British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin (FEI ID: 10028440) starting immediately from day of announcement, which is 23 July 2024. This suspension renders her ineligible to compete in the coming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other competitions under the control that of FEI.
The FEI has officially announced the provisional suspension of British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin (FEI ID: 10028440), effective immediately from the date of notification, 23 July 2024.*
The decision makes her ineligible to compete in the forthcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events that fall under the authority of FEI.
In the time of suspension during which she is banned from taking part in any activity that are related to events or competitions that fall under the jurisdiction of the FEI or any competition or event that falls under the authority of an National Federation (NF). This includes all FEI or NF-related activity. Additionally the British Equestrian Federation has mirrored the suspension provisionally and made Ms. Dujardin ineligible at any national competitions during the time.
On the 22nd of July, 2024 The FEI received a video showing Ms. Dujardin engaging in behavior that was in violation of the rules of the welfare of horses. The video was sent at the FEI by a lawyer who represented an unidentified complainant. Based on the details that was received the footage was recorded several years ago at the course of training that was conducted by Mrs. Dujardin at a private stable.
When they received the video after receiving the video, the FEI quickly started an investigation. As part of the investigation Mrs. Dujardin, British Equestrian as well as British Dressage was informed about the accusations. Ms. Dujardin was given the deadline of 17:00 Swiss time on the 23rd of July to address the allegations. In the end the. Dujardin confirmed that she is the one who was featured in the video, and also acknowledged that her conduct was not appropriate.
On the 23rd of July 2024, Charlotte Dujardin requested to be suspended indefinitely to await the results of the investigation. She then she voluntarily resigned out of her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and added that she will not be participating in any competitions until the conclusion of the FEI’s inquiry.
The FEI is adamant about any act that is detrimental to the well-being of horses. It has strict rules to curb the issue. Our commitment to ensure the highest standards for horse welfare and sportsmanship is indefatigable.
The FEI acknowledges the support from Charlotte Dujardin, British Equestrian and British Dressage in the ongoing investigation and will move as quickly as is possible.
“We are very disappointed in this situation, particularly in the days leading up to 2024’s Olympic Games in Paris 2024. But, it is our obligation and it is essential to address any instances of abuse since horses’ wellbeing cannot be compromised,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos stated.
“Charlotte expressed genuine regret for her actions and we are grateful for her willingness to accept on the burden of. Despite the unlucky date, that this act reaffirms FEI’s commitment to the welfare of our horses as guardians of our horse partners in addition to the integrity of our sports.”
To protect an integrity to the probe to protect the integrity of the investigation, FEI will not be making additional comments regarding this matter until the investigation is complete.
Correction This is the correct version: Correction: FEI first announced it was Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) has been suspended indefinitely for six months. In fact, the provisional suspension will remain in place pending the outcome of the investigation/disciplinary proceedings and the opening sentence should read “The FEI has officially announced the provisional suspension of British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin (FEI ID: 10028440) effective immediately from the date of notification, 23 July 2024.”