olympics-en : Charlotte Dujardin Withdraws from Paris 2024 Olympics Amid Investigation
Icaro
Charlotte Dujardin, a six-time dressage medallist and Britain's joint-most decorated female Olympian, has announced her withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympics after a video surfaced showing her involved in an incident described as an "error of judgement." The 39-year-old revealed that she is under investigation by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), as well as the British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage. In a statement, Dujardin expressed deep remorse for her actions, stating that the incident captured in the video, which dates back four years, was completely out of character and not reflective of her usual approach to training horses and coaching pupils.
The nature of the video remains undisclosed, with sources indicating that it has been submitted directly to the FEI. Dujardin was set to compete in both the individual dressage and team event in Paris alongside Carl Hester and Lottie Fry on a new horse named Imhotep. Her withdrawal marks a turning point in her Olympic journey, where she secured multiple gold and silver medals in previous Games. This decision also impacts her chance to surpass retired cyclist Dame Laura Kenny as the most decorated British female Olympian.
Social media responses to the news have been mixed, with speculation and concern over the undisclosed incident. While some express disappointment at Dujardin's withdrawal, others emphasize the importance of animal welfare in equestrian sports. The dressage community, in particular, is facing scrutiny over training methods and the treatment of horses, with calls for a more humane approach to the sport in light of these developments.
As the investigation unfolds and Dujardin steps away from the Paris 2024 Olympics, the equestrian world awaits further details regarding the video and its implications for one of its most accomplished athletes.
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