Debate about Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour: focus on accusations and defense

The current heated debate about horse welfare in international dressage sport, particularly in Denmark, has been given new urgency by an article in Ekstra Bladet: It analyzes pictures of Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour's Olympic horse Mount St. John Freestyle, which, according to Mette Uldahl, senior advisor for horse welfare, show possible signs of unwellness. A discolored tongue, open mouth and excessive foaming could indicate circulatory problems or inappropriate rein use.

Laudrup-Dufour firmly denies the accusations. She emphasizes that Freestyle was harmonious and efficient during the World Cup tournament in Gothenburg, which was also confirmed by her personal best score. In addition, the mare had shown no resistance whatsoever. The dressage rider makes it clear that no unauthorized aids such as artificial foam were used and that fly hoods are only used to protect against noise.

The Danish Riding Association also defends its top athlete and warns against drawing conclusions about the horse's well-being based on individual still images. According to the DRF, video analyses of the entire ride show a relaxed, attentive horse. In addition, the FEI carried out all equipment checks after the ride without finding any complaints.

Debate about Kandarenverbog - reason for emigration?

At the same time, the newspaper Ekstra Bladet published an article reporting that Laudrup-Dufour was thinking about emigrating.

If Denmark enforces a ban on the use of curb bits, Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour could be banned from international competitions. The background to this is that the Danish government is currently examining legislation that could ban riding with a curb bit - a measure that could have massive consequences for the Danish dressage rider and current world number 1 and many other professionals.

The Danish government's final decision on the possible ban is expected shortly. Should this actually happen, it could have far-reaching consequences for the Danish dressage sport.

Read the articles directly here:
https://ekstrabladet.dk/sport/anden_sport/anden_sport/bekymret-over-ol-stjernens-hest/10549937
https://ekstrabladet.dk/sport/anden_sport/anden_sport/cathrine-laudrup-dufour-har-overvejet-udlandet/10528949

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