Referrals and Appeals

Referrals Committee

The Referrals Committee has jurisdiction over cases referred by Raceday Stewards, the Licensing Committee, or Senior Racing Officials. It is responsible for making first-instance decisions on regulatory breaches, determining appropriate sanctions or dismissing cases where necessary. The committee operates in accordance with established procedures to ensure consistency and impartiality in its determinations.

The Appeals Body

The Appeals Body is an independent panel responsible for reviewing decisions made by the Referrals Committee, Raceday Stewards, or Licensing Committee. It ensures that all appeals are conducted in accordance with the Rules of Racing, with procedural fairness and due process upheld. The Appeals Body evaluates each case based on the evidence presented, applying the principles of natural justice to ensure impartial and well-founded decisions.

Appeals are often presided over by Independent Chairs. These individuals are appointed based on their expertise in legal, regulatory, or sporting disciplines and play a crucial role in maintaining judicial integrity, procedural consistency, and regulatory compliance.

Lodging an appeal

Any party seeking to appeal a decision under the Rules of Racing must submit a formal appeal within the specified time limits set by the IHRB.

Appeals must be lodged using the official Appeals Application Form, available here.

Appeals may give rise to various procedural and regulatory considerations, including:

Adjustment of Suspension or Sanction – If an appeal is unsuccessful, the original penalty may be upheld or, in some cases, amended based on the decision of the Appeals Body see here for more information on Suspensions.

Fees & Costs – Appeals are subject to lodging a €500 Appeal Fee, subject to such changes as may be stipulated by the IHRB, and where an appeal is dismissed (disallowed) the fee is non-refundable. Costs Orders may also be made in relation to Hearings.

Late Withdrawals & Fee Refunds – Appeals withdrawn before the hearing date may be eligible for a partial refund of the €500.00 appeal fee, subject to the timing of withdrawal and administrative considerations.

Referred Matters – The Appeals Body may refer specific issues or points of interpretation to the IHRB for further clarification, which may result in regulatory updates or procedural refinements.

All appeals are conducted in accordance with the Rules of Racing, ensuring a fair, transparent, and structured process that upholds the integrity of the sport.

Applicants are advised to review the Rules of Racing before lodging an appeal to ensure compliance with the relevant criteria.