Irish Horseracing Board

    The IHRB enforces a structured system of sanctions and penalties to uphold the integrity and fairness of Irish racing. Penalties are imposed for breaches of the Rules of Racing, ensuring proportionate and consistent disciplinary measures across all cases. Depending on the severity and nature of the offence, sanctions may include fines, suspensions, disqualifications, forfeitures, or other regulatory actions. 

     

    The Penalty Guidelines provide a framework for determining appropriate disciplinary measures, ensuring transparency and consistency in decision-making. These guidelines take into account factors such as the nature of the rule breach, intent, prior breaches, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.  


    The IHRB remains committed to enforcing penalties that are fair, proportionate, and effective in maintaining confidence in the sport. 



Suspensions are applied in accordance with Rule 260, with clear provisions governing their commencement, appeal process, and scheduling. Jockeys may appeal suspensions, subject to the IHRB’s regulatory framework, which ensures fair and consistent application of disciplinary measures. 

If a Jockey appeals, the suspension is stayed (paused) pending the hearing. 


Should the appeal be withdrawn, it must be done within 72 hours of the suspension's start date and requires IHRB approval. If the appeal is heard and is unsuccessful, the suspension is reinstated

  • If a Rider does not ride on Grade 1 (National Hunt) or Group 1 (Flat) race days in Ireland, those days do not count towards the suspension. Riders may request that race days in the UK be exclude from their suspension period, subject to IHRB approval. 

 

  • If an appeal postpones a suspension, new suspension dates will be assigned, taking effect on the next available race day for which declarations have not yet closed. 

 

  • Suspensions resulting from Referral Hearings will not take effect earlier than 14 days from the date of the decision. 

cover

Jockey Suspension Dates