A three-time Olympic dressage champion has pulled out of the Paris Games over a video showing an “error of judgement” in a coaching session.
Charlotte Dujardin, who won team and individual gold medals at the London 2012 Games, had been set to compete in both the individual dressage and team events this summer.
In a statement on her Instagram, she said: “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.
“I am sincerely sorry for my actions and devastated that I have let everyone down, including Team GB, fans and sponsors.
“I will cooperate fully with the FEI, British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage during their investigations, and will not be commenting further until the process is complete.”
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