Charlotte Dujardin, a prominent figure in the equestrian world, faced a significant setback recently, causing waves in the sports community.
This latest controversy follows her earlier disqualification from the European Championships, years before she was forced to withdraw from the Paris Olympics.
In 2019, the six-time Olympic medalist was disqualified from a major competition after blood was discovered on her horse, Mount St John Freestyle.
According to FEI regulations, any blood on a horse during or after an event is grounds for disqualification.
This incident occurred well before Dujardin was banned from the sport this week due to allegations of harsh treatment of a horse.
New Allegations and Suspension
Recently, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) received video footage purportedly showing Dujardin mistreating a horse at a UK training venue. The footage led to a six-month suspension for Dujardin.
The video, which resurfaced today, features Dujardin demonstrating how to use a dressage whip.
In the clip, she explains how the whip can be used to “crank and spank” the horse, raising concerns about her methods.
Dujardin’s Reaction to Past Incident
Reflecting on her 2019 disqualification, Dujardin described the situation as “soul destroying.”
She emphasized that while there was a small mark on her horse, it was minimal and did not cause lasting harm.
Dujardin acknowledged the steward’s role in enforcing the rules and accepted the consequences with grace.
Current Controversy
Just days before the Paris Olympics, Dujardin was forced to withdraw, unable to compete due to recent allegations.
The contentious video footage, which aired on Good Morning Britain, shows Dujardin striking a horse’s legs with a whip.
Dutch lawyer Stephan Wensing, representing the whistleblower, claimed the footage depicted repeated harsh treatment of the horse. Wensing compared the treatment to that of circus animals and criticized the standards of the sport.
Reactions from the Equestrian Community
The video’s release has led to harsh criticism from within the equestrian community.
Alice Plunkett, a former eventer and ITV Racing presenter, voiced her discomfort, stating that such practices are not typical or acceptable.
She emphasized that Dujardin’s reputation, built on her skill and care for horses, is now marred by these allegations.
The unfolding situation highlights significant concerns about animal welfare in competitive dressage and raises questions about the standards and practices within the sport.
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