Bob McDonald “Categorically Denies” Allegations of Sexual Misconduct Triggering Lifetime Ban, Debbie McDonald Voices Strong Support

Robert “Bob” McDonald on Friday “categorically” denied allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors that 48 hours ago led to the United States Center for SafeSport imposing a lifetime ban on involvement in equestrian and hockey activities.

The 73-year-old husband of U.S. dressage team coach Debbie McDonald said he is seeking the opportunity to “present the facts and a fair defense at an independent arbitration” that he said he is confident he will be “fully exonerated” of the allegation of misconduct 47 years ago.

Debbie said in a statement on Facebook: “Right now we cannot say much. But just because it was Bob as the accused don’t think for a moment after 42 years of marriage it doesn’t affect the entire family. And the truth will come out! He is innocent!”

The Center for SafeSport was created by the U.S. Congress in 2017 amidst widespread allegations of sexual abuse of minors that led to imprisonment for life of the Olympic gymnastics team coach.

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