CHARLOTTE Dujardin has been dropped as an ambassador of a charity after a video showed her whipping a horse.
The three-time Olympic gold medallist has been removed from her position at Brooke, a charity dedicated to horse welfare.
In a statement to PA, Brooke confirmed that the 39-year-old was no longer involved with the charity, and said: "We were deeply disturbed to learn about this video.
"Our whole ethos is around kindness and compassion to horses, and to see the opposite from someone with such a high profile is beyond disappointing.
"There can never be a justification for mistreating animals."
Ms Dujardin was suspended by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) on Tuesday (July 23).
In a statement, the FEI said: "This decision renders her ineligible to participate in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events under the jurisdiction of the FEI."
The British Equestrian Federation has taken similar action, barring Ms Dujardin from taking part in national events while she is investigated.
The Newent-based rider has responded to the allegations in a statement to PA: "A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session.
"Understandably, the 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 the moment.
Ms Dujardin has won three gold medals, a silver medal and two bronze medals at the London, Rio and Tokyo Olympic Games, making her the joint-most decorated British female Olympian of all time.
Prior to the allegations, she had been selected to represent Team GB in the individual and team dressage events.
She is expected to be replaced by Becky Moody.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel