Charlotte Dujardin's Defeat: FEI Investigation and Suspension

Equestrian athlete Charlotte Dujardin , a three - time Olympic gold medalist in dressage , announced the news Tuesday after a video she said was from four years ago surfaced and showed her acting completely out of character . The FEI said it received a video depicting Ms. Dujardin engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare . A lawyer representing an unidentified complainant sent the video to the FEI . Although the ban remains provisional while the FEI investigates , Dujardin , who has six Olympic medals in total , has said she will " withdraw from all competition while this process takes place".

The FEI investigation resulted in a six - month suspension , the body announced . Dujardin technically withdrew before the FEI could impose its penalty . In her statement , Dujardin said the incident 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 . Both the British Equestrian ( BEF ) and British Dressage ( BD ) have also imposed a provisional suspension on Dujardin pending the outcome of the FEI investigation.

At the last Olympics in Tokyo in 2021 , German modern pentathlon coach Kim Raisner was disqualified from the Games for appearing to punch a horse . That incident sparked a major overhaul of the event with the equestrian element replaced by an obstacle course . Becky Moody and her horse Jagerbomb are Team GB 's alternate combination for the dressage . The British Olympic Association ( BOA ) said it " will be applying to bring in a reserve athlete under the IOC 's Late Athlete Replacement rules".

Dujardin won individual and team dressage gold medals at the 2012 London Games and repeated her individual title four years later in Rio . She took bronze in both the individual and team events at Tokyo three years ago . Dujardin cooperated with the FEIs investigation , the FEI said . She also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEIs investigation . British Dressage chief executive Jason Brautigam said : " 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 . "

The FEI added it " intends to proceed [ its investigation ] as swiftly as possible " . " It is our responsibility and crucial that we address any instances of abuse , as equine welfare can not be compromised , " said FEI president Ingmar De Vos . " Charlotte [ Dujardin ] 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 . "

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