Charlotte Dujardin has withdrawn from Team GB for the Paris Olympics after a video emerged of her whipping a horse in a coaching session, but what are the rules for using whips in dressage?
When competing in dressage, entering the arena with a whip is against the rules and will result in a technical fault.
However, whips are allowed to be used in the practice area, as long as it is dropped before entering the space around the competition arena.
The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) state in their rules on whips: ‘At all international Events, it is forbidden to carry a whip of any kind while competing in the arena. However, the use of one (1) whip, with a total maximum length of one meter and twenty (1.20 m) (pony Competitions maximum one meter -1 m-), in the practice area is allowed. The whip must be dropped before entering the space around the Competition arena or the Athlete will be penalized.
‘Upon arrival on the showground, only the Athlete when riding, walking in hand, leading or lunging a Horse (lunge whip allowed), is allowed to use a whip (maximum one meter and twenty (1.20) / ponies maximum one (1) meter in connection with the training of the
Horse. The groom may also walk, lead and lunge a Horse as above. Other parties are allowed to carry a whip, provided it is not in connection with the training of the Horse. For safety reasons, whips at prize-giving ceremonies are allowed.’
However, the FEI has extensive rules on the welfare of horses and states that any abuse of the animal with a whip is unacceptable.
The FEI Code of Conduct states: ‘The FEI requires all those involved in international equestrian sport to adhere to the FEI Code of Conduct and to 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.’
The relevant rule on whips reads: ‘Abuse of a Horse using natural riding aids or artificial aids (e.g. whips, spurs, etc.) will not be tolerated.’
An FEI statement on the Dujardin video read: ‘The FEI 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.’
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.’
Dujardin was shown whipping the horse’s leg in the video shown on Good Morning Britain (Picture: ITV)
Dujardin’s statement read: ‘A video has emerged from four years ago which shows me making an error of judgement during a coaching session.
‘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.’
Stephan Wensing, a Dutch equine lawyer, filed a complaint of animal cruelty against Dujardin while acting on behalf of an anonymous client who was at the training event where the footage was filmed.
‘It was a sponsored guest lesson, of which my client was the sponsor and went to watch. A girl was given a lesson with her horse, in the presence of her mother,’ Wensing told Hoefslag.
‘During the lesson, Charlotte hit the horse of the student many times in the gallop to lift its legs further. This while the horse was more than well-behaved.
‘My client already thought at the time that it was actually impossible, but Charlotte was an Olympic champion, so she would know how to do it.
‘Charlotte also acted as if it was the most normal thing in the world. Later she realised that this was unacceptable.
‘When more eliminations followed after similar videos with other riders, she decided to do something with it.
‘It was only on Saturday that I got the green light to send it to the FEI. She didn’t dare to do that before, because there is an enormous culture of fear. She also has no interests in other riders or teams, but couldn’t bear Charlotte to win medals at the Games.’
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