Charlotte Dujardin Withdraws from Paris Olympics Over Coaching Video
Charlotte Dujardin, Britain's joint-most decorated female Olympian, has withdrawn from the Paris Olympics following the release of a video showing an "error of judgement" during a coaching session. The dressage rider, who has won three Olympic golds, expressed deep regret over the incident, which she said was "completely out of character" and "does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils."
The video, from four years ago, prompted Dujardin to issue a heartfelt apology, acknowledging that there is "no excuse" for her actions and stating she is "deeply ashamed" and "sincerely sorry." She is now under investigation by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), the British Equestrian Federation, and British Dressage. During this investigation, Dujardin has decided to withdraw from all competitions, including the upcoming Paris Games.
In her statement on Instagram, Dujardin reiterated her regret, emphasising her commitment to cooperating fully with the investigations. She also expressed her devastation at letting down Team GB, fans, and sponsors.
Dujardin's illustrious career includes six Olympic medals, making her Britain's joint-most decorated female Olympian alongside cyclist Dame Laura Kenny. Born in Enfield and raised in Hertfordshire, Dujardin took up riding at the age of two and began focusing on dressage at 13. She bought her first Grand Prix horse, Fernandez, in 2007 with money left by her late grandmother, marking the beginning of her competitive dressage career.
The equestrian events at the Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 27 to August 6, with medals awarded in individual and team disciplines.
A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session. Understandably, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) is investigating and I have made the decision to withdraw from all competition – including the Paris Olympics – while this process takes place.
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.
I am sincerely sorry for my actions and devastated that I have let everyone down, including Team GB, fans and sponsors.
I will cooperate fully with the FEI, British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage during their investigations, and will not be commenting further until the process is complete.
Charlotte Dujardin, 23rd July 2024
