English jockey Nico de Boinville has been cleared of making racist comments towards Irish amateur jockey Declan Queally following an investigation into an incident at the Cheltenham Festival last week.
While the allegation of racism was not upheld, De Boinville was reminded of his professional obligations.
The controversy erupted ahead of the Turners Novices’ Hurdle on the second day of the prestigious meeting, a race marred by a false start.
Both De Boinville, riding eventual second Act Of Innocence, and Queally, aboard I’ll Sort That, were seen jostling for an inside position, leading to a heated exchange.
In the aftermath, Queally told ITV Racing that he had been abused by De Boinville, subsequently filing a formal complaint of racist abuse with the stewards. An inquiry was adjourned to gather further evidence. De Boinville categorically denied all allegations.
The following day, both jockeys appeared on television for a handshake orchestrated by former rider Davy Russell, expressing a desire to move past the incident.
However, the formal process continued, with stewards meticulously reviewing available video footage and audio from the start. They also interviewed the starter, two jockeys positioned nearby, and an independent contractor working close to the starter’s rostrum.
Upon reviewing all evidence, Queally’s claim of racist abuse was not upheld. However, De Boinville was reminded of his "obligations and the expectations to ensure he behaves in a professional manner".
The stewards’ report stated: "Having reviewed and considered all the evidence it was clear that the riders were frustrated with the delay in starting the race on the second attempt, as a number of riders were reluctant to take a turn and get behind the marker poles."
The report acknowledged that "strong language was used by De Boinville at the start and directed towards Mr Queally”, and that other riders were also verbally expressing frustration.
Crucially, it concluded: "There was no audio evidence or verbal evidence given from any party during the course of the enquiry to corroborate that any language used was of a racist nature."
The stewards added: "Whilst the stewards understand that in a highly competitive environment emotions do sometimes run high, there is an expectation and an obligation on participants in terms of their behaviour under the Rules of Racing and the Code of Conduct."
They reiterated that while a verbal altercation took place, "there is no evidence to support the allegation made by Mr Queally of racist comments, therefore the complaint is not upheld."
De Boinville was reminded of his professional conduct, particularly "when pressure is heightened at the start of high-profile fixtures."
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