Horse trainer Gordon Elliott is coming under more pressure today following a picture that was released of him on social media sitting on a dead horse.
Elliott has confirmed that the photo is real but claims that it is out of context.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board launched an investigation into the photo on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Horse Racing Ireland released a statement today:
Horse Racing Ireland unreservedly condemns the disturbing photograph that appeared on social media at the weekend.
This image does not reflect the care, attention, and respect that racehorses receive, and does a disservice to the thousands of people who look after their horses on a daily basis. Horse Racing Ireland notes and supports the IHRB investigation into the circumstances around the photograph.
From a disciplinary perspective, the matter is in process, so any further comment on the matter or the detail of the case at this time would not be appropriate.
While the British Horseracing Authority is considering its own regulatory options.
In a statement, the B-H-A says it is appalled by the image and that people who work in the industry have been “deeply undermined” by this behavior.
Gigginstown House Stud owner Michael O’Leary has said he will “continue to support” trainer Gordon Elliott.
O’Leary – who enjoyed Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National success with the Meath trainer – said in a statement today that the “care and welfare of all our animals comes first”.
But he adds that he believes it was a “momentary lapse of judgment” and that he accepts the apology.
Meanwhile Legendary Irish jockey Mick Fitzgerald says he is “saddened” by the apology of Gordon Elliott.
Speaking on At The Races, former Gold Cup and Grand National-winning jockey Mick Fitzgerald says it is a sad day for the sport of racing.
“These horses have given me a life that I’m privileged to have, and it just makes me really sad.”
An emotional @mickfitzg addresses the unfolding story surrounding Gordon Elliott with @TonyEnnis11 pic.twitter.com/3tfPKfNfGP
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) March 1, 2021
