CNN
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British dressage star Charlotte Dujardin has been fined and suspended for a yr after a video emerged of her repeatedly whipping a horse throughout coaching.
Dujardin, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, withdrew from the Paris Games shortly earlier than the opening ceremony, describing the video from 4 years in the past as “an error of judgement throughout a training session,” which confirmed her appearing “utterly out of character.”
The video had been despatched to the FEI, equestrian’s worldwide governing physique, by a lawyer representing an nameless complainant. It confirmed Dujardin whipping a horse greater than 20 instances.
On high of the one-year suspension, backdated to July 23 this yr, Dujardin has additionally been fined CHF 10,000 (round $11,300), the FEI introduced on Thursday. The choice can’t be appealed.
“As the federation has recognised, my actions within the video don’t replicate who I’m and I can solely apologise once more,” Dujardin mentioned in a social media put up. “I perceive the accountability that comes with my place within the sport, and I’ll ceaselessly intention to do higher.
“This has undoubtedly been one of many darkest and most tough durations of my life, and I want to take this chance to thank everybody who has supported me throughout this time.
“To these of you who’ve despatched messages, emails and tried to succeed in me to test in on how l am – thanks. Every type phrase actually has made a distinction, greater than you’ll ever know.”
In the identical put up, Dujardin additionally introduced that she is pregnant along with her second youngster, due in February 2025.
The 39-year-old may have grow to be probably the most adorned British feminine Olympian of all time in Paris, surpassing bicycle owner Laura Kenny. She has received six Olympic medals in complete – three gold, two silver and one bronze.
“It is regrettable that this case has put our sport within the headlines for all of the unsuitable causes, particularly throughout a important time main as much as the Olympic Games,” mentioned FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez.
“Yet, regardless of the challenges, the FEI acted decisively by instantly opening an investigation and imposing a provisional suspension.
“These vital sanctions ship a transparent message that anybody, no matter their profile, who engages in conduct that compromises the welfare of the horse will face severe penalties. We consider this end result reaffirms the FEI’s dedication to equine welfare and to its function as guardian of our equine companions.”
