The FEI has officially announced the provisional suspension of British dressage rider Charlotte Dujardin, effective immediately.

A statement said: “On 22 July 2024, the FEI received a video depicting Ms Dujardin engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare. This video was submitted to the FEI by a lawyer representing an undisclosed complainant. According to the information received, the footage was allegedly taken several years ago during a training session conducted by Ms Dujardin at a private stable.

“Upon receiving the video, the FEI promptly initiated an investigation. As part of this investigation, Ms Dujardin, British Equestrian, and British Dressage were informed of the allegations.

“Ms Dujardin was given a deadline of 17:00 Swiss time on 23 July to respond to the allegations. Subsequently, Ms Dujardin confirmed that she is the individual depicted in the video and acknowledged that her conduct was inappropriate.

“On 23 July 2024, Charlotte Dujardin requested to be provisionally suspended pending the outcome of the investigations and voluntarily withdrew from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEI’s investigation.

“The FEI condemns any conduct contrary to the welfare of horses and has robust rules in place to address such behaviour. Our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of equine welfare and sportsmanship remains unwavering.

“The FEI acknowledges the cooperation of Charlotte Dujardin, British Equestrian, and British Dressage with the ongoing investigation and intends to proceed as swiftly as possible.”

‘Equine welfare cannot be compromised’

The decision by the FEI means Charlotte is not allowed to participate in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events under the jurisdiction of the FEI.

“During this period of suspension, she is prohibited from participating in any activities related to competitions or events under the jurisdiction of the FEI or any competition or event under the jurisdiction of a National Federation (NF),” confirmed the statement.

“This also includes any FEI or NF-related activities. In addition, the British Equestrian Federation has mirrored this provisional suspension, which also makes Ms. Dujardin ineligible to compete in any national events during this period.”

It comes after a statement from Charlotte shared on social media earlier this afternoon which said she has withdrawn from the Paris Olympics after a video emerged from four years ago showing what she describes as “an error of judgment” during a coaching session.

“We are deeply disappointed with this case, especially as we approach the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. However, it is our responsibility and crucial that we address any instances of abuse, as equine welfare cannot be compromised,” said FEI President Ingmar De Vos.

‘Genuine remorse’

“Charlotte has expressed genuine remorse for her actions, and we recognise and appreciate her willingness to take responsibility. Despite the unfortunate timing, we believe this action reaffirms the FEI’s commitment to welfare as the guardians of our equine partners and the integrity of our sport.”

The statement from the FEI added that in order to maintain the integrity of the investigation, the FEI will refrain from making further comments until the investigation is concluded.

Both the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and British Dressage (BD) have also imposed a provisional suspension on Charlotte from all national and international competition pending the outcome of the FEI investigation.

“As the guardians of equestrian sport, we must uphold the highest standards of equine welfare – the horse’s wellbeing is paramount,” said British Equestrian Chief Executive Jim Eyre. “We have been in close liaison with the FEI on the matter and will fully comply with any requests to fulfil their investigation and support the robust processes around such complaints.

“The allegations made are serious and the consequences far reaching but upholding the integrity of our sport remains our priority – we are privileged to enjoy the company of horses; we must never compromise on their wellbeing.  We will continue to work with the FEI and Charlotte to complete the process.”

British Dressage Chief Executive Jason Brautigam added: “At British Dressage our commitment is to ‘bring people and horses together in harmony’, and as part of this we constantly strive to achieve the highest standards of horse care.  We do not condone any behaviour that goes against our guiding principles and take a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of our equine welfare policies.

“These historic allegations are deeply upsetting for everyone involved in our sport, but we fully support the FEI investigation and will take any appropriate disciplinary action when this process is complete. Our priority now is to rally behind our athletes and horses representing Team GB in Paris as they take on the responsibility of showcasing the best of our sport on the world stage.”

British Equestrian Performance Director and Team GB Equestrian Team Leader Helen Nicholls said: “Obviously the events of the last 24 hours have been disappointing on many levels for all affected. No one more than Charlotte Dujardin recognises the part welfare holds in sport and as such has done the right thing in stepping down to allow the FEI tribunal to take place in a timely manner. Our focus remains on supporting our athletes to deliver to their potential on the world stage and we look forward to the Games getting underway on Saturday.”

As there is now a live FEI investigation, BD and the BEF have said they will make no further comments on the matter.