On 23 July 2024, the FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) officially announced the provisional suspension of British Dressage athlete, Charlotte Dujardin (known as the darling of British dressage, two-time world and multiple European champions, Olympic champion with six medals – three gold, one silver and two bronze).
This decision renders her ineligible to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events under the jurisdiction of the FEI.
On 22 July 2024, the FEI received a video of Dujardin allegedly engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare. This video was submitted to the FEI by a whistleblower’s lawyer representing a complainant, whose details remain a secret.
The video was allegedly made several years ago during a training session conducted by Dujardin at a private stable in England. Dujardin confirmed that she is the individual in the video and acknowledged that her conduct was inappropriate, in effect, admitting the allegation.
Dujardin, despite representing a technically difficult discipline of dressage, managed to gain global popularity thanks not only to her impressive results, but also by her public display of bonds with her horses which made her an ambassador for a horse welfare charity.
Unlike in horse racing, where whips may be used on a limited number of occasions, they are banned in international dressage. However, they can be used in practice areas. Under British Equestrian’s code of conduct, a whip must not be misused or used excessively, while it also says the “abuse of a horse using natural riding aids or artificial aids (e.g. whips, spurs, etc.) will not be tolerated”.
Unfortunately, the Charlotte Dujardin case is one of many cases reported where mistreatment of sport horses is alleged. Such cases occur in competitions, whether they are beginner, intermediate or professional levels. The fact that such allegations are made against individuals that are well liked and who publicly display their respect and love for their animal partners, brings the case closer to the public eye.
The backlash was quick and a part of Dujardin’s withdrawal from the Olympics and suspension in all country and global equestrian structures. It resulted in immediate termination of partnerships and sponsorship contracts that Dujardin had, including equestrian insurance company KBIS and Danish equestrian equipment company Equine LTS.
Modern dressage is facing many challenges when it comes to guaranteeing both physical and mental welfare of competing horses. Dujardin’s statement stating that what is captured on the video had happened a long time ago and was a singular event which does not reflect Dujardin’s regular approach towards horses, will now be open to public scrutiny. Such graphic scenes have undoubtedly caused an image crisis.
Undoubtedly, the FEI has a big role to play here in ensuring the welfare of horses by introducing changes to its Rules. In accordance with the Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse, introduced in 2013, the FEI requires all those involved in international equestrian sport to adhere, acknowledge, and accept that at all times the welfare of the horse must be paramount. Welfare of the horse must never be subordinated to competitive or commercial influences.
Referring to the guidance contained in the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission Final Report to the FEI Board (18 November 2023), equestrianism must adopt an ethics-based, proactive, progressive, and holistic approach to the protection of equine welfare, to ensure the ongoing trust of all stakeholders, including the public.
Equestrian law specialist, Agnieszka Kalinowska, is available to discuss the impact of the Charlotte Dujardin case on the equestrian community and potential changes in regulations.
For an introductory meeting regarding equine welfare regulations, legal advice on equestrian sports, or related matters, please contact agnieszka.kalinowska@wlegal.co.uk.
Written by Agnieszka Kalinowska, specialist equestrian lawyer at W Legal, with contributions by marketing expert, Karolina Martyniuk
