The actions today of veteran jockey Paco Lopez were completely, totally unacceptable, inexcusable and reprehensible.
There is no place for this in our sport. This is why racing needs a national governing body and jurisdiction that reviews all of these important matters immediately and can act on them promptly.
We all know how dangerous this sport is for jockeys and have the utmost respect for the job they do and the risks they take EVERY day on EVERY mount, and I recognize the horse’s erratic behavior in the race.
That said, I call on the Stewards to take immediate action.
As Commissioner, I strongly recommend, effective immediately, a 90-day suspension and a $25,000 fine to be paid to @TBaftercare.