Valegro, the legendary dressage horse who helped British rider Charlotte Dujardin win three Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016, has been euthanized alongside his stablemate and fellow Olympic champion Uthopia. Announced by Carl Hester, who won team gold with Uthopia in 2012, the two horses shared a lifelong bond, retiring together and living side by side in Hester’s rural English yard. Valegro, also known as Blueberry, retired in 2016 at age 23, while Uthopia was 24.

Dujardin paid an emotional tribute to Valegro, describing him as her “constant” and “rock” through both triumphs and challenges, emphasizing the deep connection they shared. Valegro was once hailed as the “Muhammad Ali of dressage,” capturing the hearts of many during the London Olympics. Despite Dujardin missing the 2024 Paris Olympics due to suspension, her heartfelt words highlighted the profound impact Valegro had on her life and career.