British rider Charlotte Dujardin, a three-time Olympic champion, was suspended from all competition for a year, until July 2025, for hitting a horse. The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) announced the penalty this Thursday.
Charlotte Dujardin, 39, was temporarily suspended by the FEI on July 23, when the governing body launched an investigation into a four-year-old video of her whipping a horse.The images showed more than 20 lashes, which are basically applied between the back and front legs.
The complaint came to the agency’s offices through a Dutch lawyer, Stephan Wensing, who represented an anonymous client. “My client is very happy that the FEI took this case so seriously and this is a positive message aimed at the dressage world,” he said,quoted by BBC Sport.
Dujardin,who thus no longer took part in the Paris 2024 Olympics,will not be able to compete again until July 2025,as the penalty has retroactive effects to the date the rider was temporarily suspended. And the penalty applies internationally and nationally, as the British Confederation followed the same criteria.
The FEI’s sanctioning body, including a fine of 10,000 Swiss francs (about 10,700 euros) was imposed because it concluded that Dujardin’s behavior was “contrary to the principles of horse welfare”.
“These sanctions send a clear signal to everyone, irrespective of profile, that anyone who takes behavior that harms the well-being of the horse will have serious consequences,” said the general secretary of the FEI, Sabrina Ibanez.
Dujardin won gold at the 2012 London Olympics in dressage, team and individual competitions, and renewed his individual title at Rio 2016, winning silver in teams. The rider also won bronze in teams and individuals in Tokyo2020, an edition that took place in 2021.
**What are the key principles of equestrian ethics that riders should follow?**
Interview with Dr. Emily Carter: Equestrian Ethics Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter.The recent suspension of british rider Charlotte Dujardin has sent shockwaves through the equestrian community. Could you provide us with an overview of what led too this meaningful decision by the international Equestrian federation (FEI)?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Essentially, Charlotte Dujardin, a celebrated three-time Olympic champion, faced a year-long suspension after video footage surfaced showing her whipping a horse over 20 times during a training session. This incident occurred four years ago, and the FEI took action following a complaint from an anonymous party represented by Dutch lawyer Stephan Wensing. The institution deemed her actions as contrary to the principles of horse welfare, which aligns with their commitment to ensuring humane treatment of these animals.
Time.news Editor: The FEI’s sanctioning measure includes both a one-year suspension and a fine of 10,000 swiss francs. How critical do you beleive these actions are for the future of equestrian sports?
Dr. Emily carter: These sanctions are considerable and serve as a pivotal moment for equestrian sports. By imposing such penalties, the FEI is sending a clear message that animal welfare is non-negotiable, irrespective of a competitor’s status or past achievements. This could potentially influence not only athletes’ behaviors but also instigate systemic changes within training practices, emphasizing ethical treatment and care of horses.
Time.news Editor: Dujardin’s suspension means she will miss the paris 2024 Olympics and is barred from competing until July 2025.What are the implications for her athletic career?
Dr. Emily Carter: Missing the Paris 2024 Olympics is a significant blow for any athlete, especially an elite competitor like Dujardin. Her absence not only affects her personal career but also the British equestrian team, which may miss her experience and skill in upcoming competitions. Moreover, it raises questions about her return, as elite athletes must consistently compete at high levels to maintain their rankings and sponsorships.
Time.news Editor: The response from the equestrian community seems mixed.What do you think the long-term effects of this incident will be on public perceptions of equestrian disciplines,especially dressage?
Dr. Emily Carter: There’s no doubt that incidents like this will heighten scrutiny on equestrian practices, especially dressage, which has previously faced criticism for its training methods. As awareness grows around animal welfare, the public will demand greater openness and ethical standards from riders and trainers. The FEI’s response and the subsequent discussions it sparks could led to a positive shift towards more humane training and competition practices, ultimately benefiting both the horses and the sport’s reputation.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice would you give to aspiring equestrians and trainers in light of these developments?
Dr. emily Carter: My advice would be to prioritize the welfare of the horse above all else. Training should focus on positive reinforcement, understanding equine behavior, and fostering a bond of trust and respect between horse and rider. Young athletes and trainers should stay informed about the evolving standards in the industry, utilize resources provided by organizations like the FEI, and advocate for ethical practices in their own circles. the future of the sport will rely on our collective commitment to ensuring our equine partners are treated with the care they deserve.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights on this complex situation. It’s crucial for our readers, manny of whom are involved in equestrian sports, to understand the implications of Dujardin’s suspension and the ongoing discussions surrounding animal welfare in equestrian disciplines.
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me; it’s been a pleasure discussing these significant issues.