Charlotte Dujardin has paid tribute to her legendary horse Valegro, who passed away at the age of 23. Together, they won three Olympic gold medals—two at London 2012 and one at Rio 2016—along with multiple World Equestrian Games and European Championship titles, making Valegro the most decorated dressage horse in British history. Dujardin expressed deep emotion over their unique partnership in her first Instagram post since receiving a year-long ban from the sport in December 2024.

Valegro’s passing coincided with the death of his stable-mate Uthopia, another Olympic gold medal-winning horse, who was euthanized at 24 due to health issues. Carl Hester, who rode Uthopia, reflected on the profound impact both horses had on British dressage, describing their era as golden and honoring their legacy by allowing them to pass with dignity.