Whip Woes: Jockey Giants Dettori, Murphy, and More Benched at Newmarket

Frankie Dettori’s Elusive Quest at Newmarket Foiled by Whip Ban

Legendary jockey Frankie Dettori’s dream of conquering the one race missing from his illustrious career has been shattered. The British Horseracing Authority’s Whip Review Committee has handed him an eight-day ban for his use of the whip on Inspiral during Royal Ascot.

The Darley July Cup Remains Out of Reach

Dettori, who plans to retire at the end of 2023, had set his sights on winning the prestigious Darley July Cup at Newmarket, his home course. This domestic Group One race is the only major title that has eluded the talented 52-year-old throughout his remarkable journey in horse racing.

A Double Blow for Dettori and Murphy

This setback comes as a double blow for Dettori, as he was already facing a nine-day ban due to causing interference on Saga in the Wolferton Stakes. Despite appealing this suspension, he will now additionally serve an eight-day whip ban starting after completing his previous punishment. Consequently, Dettori will miss out on competing in the highly anticipated July Cup scheduled for July 15.

Oisin Murphy also finds himself absent from the upcoming races at Newmarket due to exceeding permitted whip usage by one when riding Valiant King in the King George V Stakes. As a Class 2 race, this infraction incurs an eight-day penalty which coincides with Dettori’s ban. Murphy will be out of action from July 11-15 and 17-19.

Other Jockeys Facing Penalties

In addition to Dettori and Murphy, James McDonald has also fallen foul of whip regulations. McDonald was found to have exceeded the limit by two while riding Artorius in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, resulting in a ban lasting 14 days. The severity of this penalty reflects the significance and prestige of the race. McDonald was further fined £400 for his actions.

Daniel Muscutt joins the list of jockeys missing out at Newmarket as he too violated whip rules during his ride on Canberra Legend in the Hampton Court Stakes. Like Dettori and Murphy, Muscutt used his whip seven times during the race, leading to a suspension.