Charlotte Dujardin has made her aggressive comeback after serving a one-year suspension from the game. The three-time Olympic gold medallist returned to the world at Hunters Equestrian on 27 July, successful each the superior medium 3 (74.46%) and 4 (76.71%) on new experience Particular Impact.
Her return marks the top of a tough chapter in her profession. In July 2024, simply days earlier than the Paris Olympics, video footage surfaced displaying Charlotte placing a horse with a whip round its legs throughout a coaching session. She voluntarily withdrew from the Video games and was provisionally suspended the identical day, 23 July.
The FEI launched an investigation and, on 5 December, introduced a one-year ban and a high quality of 10,000 Swiss francs (£8,886), citing three rule violations: horse abuse, conduct bringing the game into disrepute, and breach of the FEI code of conduct on horse welfare.
The worldwide ban, additionally backed by British Equestrian and British Dressage, was backdated to 23 July 2024.
Charlotte publicly accepted the decision, expressing “deep remorse” and stating: “I perceive the accountability that comes with my place within the sport, and I’ll for ever purpose to do higher.”
The FEI Tribunal described the incident as an “remoted incidence” and acknowledged her beforehand clear disciplinary document and voluntary Olympic withdrawal. However the fallout was vital. Charlotte misplaced sponsorships, ambassadorial roles, and was ineligible for UK Sport funding throughout her suspension.
Charlotte mentioned on the time: “This has undoubtedly been one of many darkest and most tough intervals of my life, and I wish 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 achieve me to examine in on how I’m – thanks. All types phrase actually has made a distinction, greater than you’ll ever know.”
Since her provisional suspension, Charlotte’s prime experience, Imhotep, was bought to Austrian rider Diana Porsche – in a transfer Carl Hester confirmed to H&H had all the time been deliberate for after the Paris Olympics. Her up-and-coming experience Occasions Kismet, was additionally bought to backers of the Olympic champion Jessica von Bredow-Werndl.
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H&H dressage and sport horse editor
Oscar graduated from York St John College with a grasp’s diploma in Literature in 2021 and joined Horse & Hound in October 2023. Oscar labored for prime dressage rider Emile Faurie for 4 years after ending an equine administration course at school. Beneath Emile’s tutelage, Oscar competed on the 2015 Nationwide Dressage Championships and travelled with Emile’s horses to CDIs at Aachen, Vidauban, Saumur and Achlieiten. Oscar continues to compete in dressage, alongside his day job.
