Three-time Olympic gold medalist in dressage, Charlotte Dujardin, has been handed a one-year suspension and a fine by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) for excessive whipping of a horse. The incident, captured in a viral video shortly before the 2024 Paris Olympics, led to Dujardin's withdrawal from the Games. The video depicted Dujardin repeatedly whipping a horse around its legs, prompting accusations of conduct detrimental to horse welfare.

The FEI's decision, announced on Thursday, includes a fine of 10,000 Swiss Francs in addition to the ban, which is retroactive to the start of her provisional suspension. This allows Dujardin to return to competition in July 2025. In a statement following the FEI's ruling, Dujardin expressed respect for the verdict and reiterated her apologies for the incident. She acknowledged the responsibility that comes with her prominent position in the sport and pledged to strive for better conduct in the future.

When the video initially surfaced, Dujardin explained that it was from four years prior and represented a lapse in judgment during a coaching session. At the time, she announced her withdrawal from all competitions, including the Paris Olympics, pending the FEI's investigation.

Dujardin's illustrious career includes three Olympic gold medals: two in 2012 (team and individual dressage) and another individual gold in 2016. She also secured a team silver in 2016 and two bronze medals (team and individual) in Tokyo in 2020.