Team GB star withdraws from Paris Olympics after making 'error of judgement'

Dujardin is Britain's second-most decorated female Olympian.

Announcing the news, she said in a statement: "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.

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"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."

Dujardin won two Olympic golds back in 2012 when the Games were hosted in London.

She won with a percentage of 83 per cent while riding Valegro, before winning two golds and other silver with the same horse in Rio four years later.

Dujardin also took part at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo, scooping six bronze medals in total.

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She was given a CBE to recognise her achievements back in 2013.

Speaking before her decision to withdraw from the Olympics, Dujardin had said she was looking forward to potentially making history out in France.

"It will be one of the most incredible moments if that does happen," she said.

"But I don't put any pressure on myself to make that happen."

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She also shed light on how becoming a parent had changed her.

"With our sport there's always another day, another competition to go to," she said.

"But when you've got a child, it kind of just changes your perspective on real life.

"For me it's showing her [daughter Isabella] that actually most important for me is to enjoy it. I don't want it to be a stressful event.

"It's really about making her proud.

"I want for her, one day, to look back and go: 'That's my mummy and how cool was that that she was there competing at the Olympics. And, I was there to watch.'"