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Rhiannon Ingle
Warning: This article contains descriptions of animal cruelty that some readers may find upsetting
The disturbing video that forced a British competitor to suddenly withdraw from the upcoming Olympic Games has been released.
The Team GB dressage star was forced to pull out of the 2024 games in Paris - which are set to begin later this week - after the extremely controversial video resurfaced.
Charlotte Dujardin, who would have been taking part in equestrian events this weekend, said she made 'an error of judgement' during a coaching session four years ago.
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The video in question - shared today by Good Morning Britain - shows Dujardin repeatedly hitting a horse with a whip 'more than 24 times in one minute' during a lesson with a 19-year-old female student that took place in her private stable.
In the upsetting clip, the horse jumps and bucks slightly as the whip comes into contact with it's legs.
Dujardin previously said in a statement: "A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session.
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"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.
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"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."
Yesterday (23 July), the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) officially announced the provisional suspension of the 39-year-old disgraced athlete.
The statement reads: "On 22 July 2024, the FEI received a video depicting Ms. Dujardin engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare.
"This video was submitted to the FEI by a lawyer representing an undisclosed complainant. According to the information received, the footage was allegedly taken several years ago during a training session conducted by Ms. Dujardin at a private stable."
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It continues: "Upon receiving the video, the FEI promptly initiated an investigation. As part of this investigation, Ms. Dujardin, British Equestrian, and British Dressage were informed of the allegations.
"Ms Dujardin was given a deadline of 17:00 Swiss time on 23 July to respond to the allegations. Subsequently, Ms. Dujardin confirmed that she is the individual depicted in the video and acknowledged that her conduct was inappropriate."
"On 23 July 2024, Charlotte Dujardin requested to be provisionally suspended pending the outcome of the investigations and voluntarily withdrew from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEI’s investigation."
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The FEI went on to state that it 'condemns any conduct contrary to the welfare of horses' and has 'robust rules' in place to address such behaviour.
"Our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of equine welfare and sportsmanship remains unwavering," the statement adds.
FEI President Ingmar De Vos said: "We are deeply disappointed with this case, especially as we approach the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. However, it is our responsibility and crucial that we address any instances of abuse, as equine welfare cannot be compromised.
"Charlotte 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."
If you see an animal in distress and/or in need of help, contact the RSPCA's national animal cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 from 8am to 5pm seven days a week, or visit their website for further advice.