International equine charity World Horse Welfare has responded to the FEI investigation into Charlotte Dujardin, which has resulted in her provisional suspension. Charlotte commented on the alleged incident yesterday (23 July) and said she felt deeply ashamed of what she described as an error of judgment during a coaching session four years ago.Charlotte will no longer compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics, which kicks off later this week, and in international or national competitions until the conclusion of the investigation. The video of the alleged incident was released this morning (24 July) and World Horse Welfares Chief Executive, Roly Owers, has commented on behalf of the charity.This story is another salutary reminder of how vital it is that equestrians put the welfare of the horse first, all of the time, whether in the competition arena or behind closed doors, said Mr Owers. We welcome Charlottes decision to take full responsibility and withdraw from the Paris Olympics, and British Equestrian and the FEIs swift action. Horse sport rightly has high standards, as illustrated in the FEI Code of Conduct and British Equestrians Charter for the Horse, but its a collective responsibility to maintain these standards.Respect for the horse must be at the heart of every equestrian, and every equestrian sport, and their actions must demonstrate that respect all of the time. World Horse Welfare actively supports horse sport, but there cannot be any tolerance for unacceptable practices, no matter how experienced the rider or coach. We know that a successful future for horse sport has public trust at the centre of it and this requires equestrians to be caring and to always treat their horses with respect, compassion and understanding. This is another massive wake-up call for anyone who thinks this is not important, because it most certainly is.World Horse Welfare supports the responsible involvement of horses in sport, and is an independent welfare advisor to the Fdration Equestre Internationale (FEI), the International Horse Sports Confederation and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).Further readingVideo released relating to Charlotte Dujardin investigationFEI announces provisional suspension for Charlotte DujardinIm deeply ashamed: Charlotte Dujardin withdraws from Paris OlympicsTimetable for Paris Olympics plus how to watch equestrian sportBirth of first foal from smuggled horses rescued by World Horse WelfareThe post World Horse Welfare responds to Charlotte Dujardin investigation appeared first on Your Horse.