Charlotte Dujardin, a renowned British dressage rider and three-time Olympic champion, has found herself at the center of controversy following the release of a video showing her allegedly mistreating a horse. The video, which surfaced recently, depicts Dujardin hitting a horse on the legs during a slow-motion trot in a training session four years ago.
Before Getting into Details
Watch the Charlotte Dujardin Video(Warning NSFW Content)
Details of the Incident
The video, obtained by a Dutch lawyer, shows Dujardin whipping the horse’s legs multiple times. This has led to an outcry from animal welfare advocates and the equestrian community. The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) has launched an investigation, and Dujardin has been suspended from competing in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
Dujardin’s Response
In response to the video, Dujardin expressed deep remorse and acknowledged the incident as an “error of judgement.” She stated, “What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils. However, there is no excuse. I am deeply ashamed and should have set a better example in that moment”.
Dujardin, who needed just one more medal to become the outright most-decorated British female Olympian, decided to withdraw from all competitions during the investigation. She apologized to her fans, sponsors, and Team GB for her actions and the disappointment caused by the incident.
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Impact on Career
This controversy has cast a shadow over Dujardin’s illustrious career. She has been a dominant figure in dressage, winning multiple gold medals at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, and bronze medals at Tokyo 2020. The incident has also prompted an investigation by the British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage, further affecting her standing in the equestrian community.
Public Reaction and Social Media
The video has sparked significant discussion on social media, with many expressing their shock and disappointment. Here are some reactions:
“Deeply saddened to see this. Charlotte Dujardin was a role model in equestrian sports. This is unacceptable.” – @EquestrianLife
“We must hold our athletes to the highest standards. This behavior cannot be tolerated, no matter who you are.” – @HorseLoversUnite
The equestrian world and fans alike are now waiting for the outcome of the FEI’s investigation, hoping for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the sport and ensures the welfare of the animals involved.
For ongoing updates on this story, you can follow Total Horse Channel and LBC.
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